Scheduled MonumentsScotlandDounreay Castle

Dounreay Castle

Scotland
HES SM6401
Nation
Scotland
Boundary

Scheduled area

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Overview

History & significance

Dounreay Castle is a Norse fortification located on the north coast of Caithness in the far north of Scotland. The site comprises the remains of a medieval stronghold dating to the medieval period, situated on a promontory that provided natural defensive advantages. The castle is associated with the Norse settlement and lordship of Caithness during the period when Scandinavian influence was significant in northern Scotland. The surviving archaeological remains include stone structures characteristic of medieval fortified settlements in this region.

Dounreay Castle is a scheduled monument protected by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM6401. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Dounreay Castle?

Dounreay Castle is a Norse fortification located on the north coast of Caithness in the far north of Scotland. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM6401.

Who is responsible for protecting Dounreay Castle?

Dounreay Castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Historic Environment Scotland — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in Scotland. The official designation reference is SM6401.

What other scheduled monuments are near Dounreay Castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Achvarasdal House,two stones N of (2.2 km), Achvarasdal House, broch 65m NE of (2.3 km), Reay, burial ground, old church and cross slab 175m E of Parish Church (2.5 km).

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