Dunrobin Castle with kids

The birds-of-prey display is the clearest family anchor. Shows are scheduled for 11.30am and 2.30pm from 1 April to 31 October, so choose one before deciding when to explore the rooms and gardens.

The display takes place outdoors on the castle lawn. Check the latest visitor information and social updates before a long journey rather than assuming the day will run exactly as planned.

Admission covers the furnished castle rooms, formal gardens and museum. There is no separate gardens-only ticket, so the value comes from using several parts of the site rather than stopping only for the view.

Children under 6 enter free, and carers are also admitted free. The castle tour is self-guided, which lets families move through the 18 open rooms at a pace that suits their attention span.

Pushchairs can be used around the grounds but must be left in the cloakroom before entering the castle rooms. Front carriers are recommended for babies, while back carriers are not permitted inside.

Wheelchair access inside the historic castle is limited. Access to the gardens can be arranged on request, so contact the team before travelling when a step-free route is essential. The castle does not provide wheelchairs.

Baby-changing facilities are available; ask staff where to find the nearest one.

The museum mixes archaeological and local-history material with a large collection of historic animal taxidermy. Give sensitive children a warning before entering and be ready to skip this section if it will upset them.

The tearoom serves meals, sandwiches, soup, cakes, pastries and ice cream. It is available to castle ticket holders, so do not plan it as a separate food stop without admission.

Parking is free, with space for approximately 200 cars and four coaches. The castle is half a mile north of Golspie and links to bus, coach and rail information, but families using public transport should check live connections before setting out.

The 2026 season runs daily from 1 April to 31 October. April to September hours are 10am-5.30pm with last entry at 4.30pm; October hours are 10.30am-5pm with last entry at 4pm.

Buy online when you want the reassurance of having tickets arranged, or pay on arrival. Check the current admission page because prices and seasonal details can change after the published 2026 season.

Agree which falconry display you are aiming for, bring a front carrier if the baby cannot manage without the buggy, and prepare children for the museum collection. The castle posts last-minute closure updates through its social channels.