Dumbarton Castle

Impressively situated on a volcanic rock overlooking the Firth of Clyde, Dumbarton Castle was an important royal refuge in the Middle Ages.

About Dumbarton Castle

	Dumbarton Castle , Dumbarton G82 1JJ
	Dumbarton Castle Website
	Follow histenvscot on Twitter
	Facebook information can be found here

Listed Under Attractions - History and Culture / Attractions - Museums

Dumbarton Castle was once the capital of the Kingdom of Strathclyde, and it played an important role in Scottish history. It was besieged by Vikings in the 9th century, and it was also used by King Robert the Bruce during the Scottish Wars of Independence.

In the 17th century, Dumbarton Castle was captured by Oliver Cromwell's forces during the English Civil War. It was later restored by the Stuart monarchy, and it remained in use as a military base until the early 20th century.

Today, Dumbarton Castle is a popular tourist destination. It is managed by Historic Environment Scotland, and it is open to the public for guided tours.

Here are some of the things you can see and do at Dumbarton Castle:

• Explore the castle's ruins, including the Great Hall, the Chapel Royal, and the Governor's House.

• Learn about the castle's history through interactive exhibits and displays.

• Take in the stunning views of the River Clyde and the surrounding countryside from the castle walls.

• Enjoy a picnic lunch in the castle gardens.

Dumbarton Castle is a fascinating place to visit, and it is a great way to learn about Scottish history and culture.

Image Credit: Historic Environment Scotland

We take every opportunity to ensure the details for Dumbarton Castle are accurate, if any of the above information is incorrect we would appreciate if you could take a minute to suggest an edit.

All information (whether in text or photographs) is supplied in good faith but should not be relied upon as being a statement of representation or fact.

Want to be the first to hear about what's happening in Glasgow? Just hit 'Like' on our What's On Glasgow Facebook page, join the What's On Scotland Facebook Group and 'Follow' on our @WhatsOnGlasgow Twitter or Instagram accounts and you're all set!

Upcoming Events at Dumbarton Castle

Days Out

Visiting Vikings

8th June 2024 - 9th June 2024

Dumbarton Castle, Dumbarton

Dumbarton Rock was besieged several times by the Vikings and now the raiders, traders and invaders have returned to take over Dumbarton Castle!

Days Out

Holding the Rock for Scotland

23rd June 2024

Dumbarton Castle, Dumbarton

Hear the firing of the musket volleys and watch the clash of pikes and swords as you relive the Scottish civil wars of the 1600s at Dumbarton Castle!

History and Culture

The Tall Ship Glenlee

150 Pointhouse Place, Glasgow West End G3 8RS

The Tall Ship Glenlee operates a programme of year-round maritime themed events and activities, with specially devised talks and tours, school visits and costumed volunteer days.

History and Culture

Inveraray Castle

Inveraray Castle , Inveraray PA32 8XE

Inveraray Castle is the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll, Chief of the Clan Campbell and an iconic, must-see visitor attraction on the West Coast of Scotland.

History and Culture

The Glasgow School of Art

The Glasgow School of Art Renfrew Street, Glasgow City Centre G3 6RF

Mackintosh's 'masterwork' The Glasgow School of Art, built 1897-1909, bookends his architectural career.

History and Culture

Clydebank Heritage Centre

Clydebank Heritage Centre Dumbarton Road, Clydebank G81 1XH

Clydebank Heritage Centre is home to a unique collection of information on the history and culture of Clydebank and surrounding area including the villages of Duntocher, Hardgate and Old Kilpatrick.

History and Culture

The Hill House

The Hill House Upper Colquhoun Street, Helensburgh G84 9AJ

High on a hill in Helensburgh, overlooking the River Clyde, sits what is universally regarded as Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s finest domestic creation!

History and Culture

St Mungo Museum of Religious Life & Art

2 Castle Street, Glasgow City Centre G4 0RH

The award-winning St Mungo Museum is a haven of tranquillity in a bustling city. This museum is named after Glasgow's patron saint, who brought the Christian faith to Scotland in the 6th century.

History and Culture

The Govan Stones Project

886 Govan Road, Glasgow South Side G51 3UU

The Govan Stones are one of Glasgow's most important historical and cultural assets, explore the 31 monuments within the beautiful setting of Govan Old Church.

History and Culture

Glasgow Central Tours

Glasgow Central Station Gordon Street, Glasgow City Centre G1 3SL

Explore one of Glasgow's most iconic landmarks, from the platforms to the subterranean vaults on a Glasgow Central Tour!

History and Culture

Tenement House

145 Buccleuch Street, Glasgow West End G3 6QN

The National Trust for Scotland's Tenement House provides a rare glimpse into life in Glasgow in the early 20th century, in this faithfully restored four-room house!

History and Culture

Glasgow City Chambers

Glasgow City Chambers George Square, Glasgow City Centre G2 1DU

Glasgow City Chambers are one of the most beautiful civic buildings in the UK and a huge favourite amongst locals and tourists alike!

History and Culture

Willow Tea Rooms

97 Buchanan Street, Glasgow City Centre G1 3HF

A visit to The Willow Tea Rooms is a must for anyone interested in enjoying tasty traditional food and drinks in an atmospheric setting!

History and Culture

House for an Art Lover

Bellahouston Park Dumbreck Road, Glasgow South Side G41 5BW

Designed by famous Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, House for an Art Lover is a truly unique venue and one of Glasgow's architectural gems!

All History and Culture listings in Glasgow