Visit Dingwall and walk in the footsteps of Macbeth. The market town is famous as the birthplace of the legendary King of Scots. Beyond history, Dingwall is a gateway to the Scottish Highlands. Use the town as a base to hike, cycle and castle-hop in the mountainous region.
Things to do in Dingwall
Handsome historic buildings line the Dingwall High Street. Browse independent shops and brush up on local history at the Dingwall Museum. It’s housed in the historic tollbooth and features exhibits on the history of Dingwall and the Scottish Highlands. Learn about the legacy of Highland legends like Macbeth, peer into a recreated blacksmith workshop and see an ancient stone cross carved in the 1st millennium.
Crumbling walls, as well as a stone folly and dovecote, are all that remains of Dingwall Castle. The ruins are in the heart of Dingwall and recall the town’s past as a stronghold for Norse settlers. History buffs arrive to explore the castle’s connection to Macbeth, King of Scots.
Dingwall puts you at the doorstep of the Scottish Highlands. Hike a section of the scenic Great Glen Way and visit Urquhart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness. Keep an eye out for the elusive Loch Ness Monster as you explore the centuries-old castle.
From specialty cafes to cosy pubs, you’ll find dining options for every occasion in Dingwall. The town is a great place to try hearty dishes from the Scottish Highlands, like double-crusted pies filled with minced mutton and haggis served with parsnips and potatoes. Save room for cranachan, a classic Scottish dessert made with raspberries, oats, whipped cream and whiskey.
Getting around Dingwall
Dingwall is compact and easy to get around on foot. The town is in the Scottish Highlands, 30 minutes from Inverness by car or train and 2.5 hours from Aberdeen. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Dingwall and explore the Scottish Highlands at your own pace. Aberdeen International Airport is a 2.5-hour drive away.