Discover Things to Do at Dunadd Fort – Explore Its 900-Year History

Dunadd Fort is an ancient stronghold steeped in 3000 years of history. Located on a rocky hillock in the West of Scotland, Dunadd is renowned for its royal court, carvings and artefacts.

This guide will highlight some of the most exciting things to do at Dunadd Fort. From exploring the inner and outer ramparts to checking out the historic carvings, there are plenty of activities to satisfy both the young and old.

Read on to learn more about the 900-year-old archaeology, the fascinating wall walk, and the play and picnic areas – plus much more!

Location : Ancient fortification in Scotland’s Argyll region, near Kilmartin

History : Built by Scots as a royal citadel and political/ceremonial centre of kingdom of Dalriada

Activities : Climbing the hill to reach the citadel, exploring the inner and outer ramparts, visiting the royal court, and checking out the historic carvings

Access : By car via A83 near village of Kilmartin

Hill climb : Around 30 minutes with steep and slippery sections, good level of fitness and trekking poles recommended

Ramparts : Exciting part of visit, view surrounding area, discover archaeological remains

Royal court : Main attraction, where ancient kings and queens held court around 600AD, features authentically carved stones

Historic carvings : Depict Celtic symbols, everyday life, religion, battles

Remains of old structures : One of Scotland’s most important fortified centres, ancient remains

What is Dunadd Fort?

Dunadd Fort is an ancient fortification located in Scotland’s Argyll region near the town of Kilmartin. Dating back to the 5th century, it is regarded as one of Scotland’s most important archaeological sites. The original fort was built by the Scots, who used it as a royal citadel and sought refuge in it during turbulent times. It is believed to have been the political and ceremonial centre of the kingdom of Dalriada – the first Gaelic-speaking kingdom of Scotland.

The fort is now a protected monument and is open to the public, with many fascinating activities to partake in. Its historic carvings, archaeology, and breathtaking views give visitors an authentic glimpse of Scotland’s ancient past. There is something for all ages at Dunadd Fort, from night walks to educational classroom workshops.

Where is Dunadd Fort Located?

Dunadd Fort is an ancient fort located in the Argyll & Bute area of Scotland, on the Kilmartin Glen archaeological site. It is now a tourist attraction and can be reached by car via the A83 near the village of Kilmartin.

The fort sits atop a rocky hilltop overlooking the River Add. There is evidence to suggest that the fort was occupied by Celtic tribes as far back as the 5th century.

Dunadd Fort is one of the most important historical places in Scotland and offers visitors a unique insight into Scotland’s long and rich history.

Overview of Things to Do at Dunadd Fort

Dunadd Fort is an iconic landmark in the region of Argyll, Scotland. Situated on a hilltop plateau and surrounded by ancient settlements and buried secrets, the fort offers a unique insight into Scotland’s history and heritage. A visit to Dunadd promises to be a fun and educational experience for all.

There is a range of activities to do at Dunadd Fort for all ages; from climbing the hill to reach the citadel, to exploring the inner and outer ramparts, as well as viewing some of the most remarkable and ancient remains of structures from 900 years ago. If you are looking for something more informative, be sure to check out the visitor centre for the rich history and heritage of the site or take part in one of the popular classroom and workshop tours.

You could also go for a scenic walk along the wall walk for amazing views from above, have fun with the kids in the playground and picnic areas, or if feeling brave, join in on a night walk around the fort using flashlights during winter months.

Climb the Hill to Reach the Citadel: What You Need to Know

Climbing up the hill to reach the Dunadd Fort citadel is by far one of the most thrilling experiences you can have when visiting the historic site. While the trek can be difficult, it is a rewarding journey for those who are willing to take on the challenge.

Once you make it to the top of the hill, you will be able to look down at the ancient fort and appreciate the astounding architecture with your own eyes. To get to the top you’ll need to have a good level of fitness, wear shoes with good tread and if possible, bring a pair of trekking poles.

The trek to get to the top of the hill isn’t too long – around 30 minutes – but sections can be steep and slippery underfoot. It’s important to note that the climb is a public right of way, so keep an eye out for other walkers and don’t forget to stay on the path.

During winter months, wearing a head torch is recommended as it can be dark and misty at the top of the hill. The view from the top is worth the effort though – you’ll be able to appreciate the vast landscape that surrounds Dunadd.

Bring plenty of water with you and be sure to take your time on the way up. The stunning nature surrounding the area makes it easy to forget the time, so give yourself plenty of time to climb back down before darkness sets in.

Explore the Inner & Outer Ramparts

The ramparts of Dunadd Fort are an exciting part of the visit. Climb up the outer walls to get a magnificent view of the surrounding area, while also imagining what life was like centuries ago. Discover the archaeological remains of the former structures that are now just foundations and rubble. Follow in the footsteps of countless generations of people who once lived within the walls.

The inner ramparts are incredibly well preserved, giving visitors the chance to recognize the engineering feat that was necessary to build them. Whether you have an interest in history, or archaeology or just appreciate great architecture, exploring the inner and outer ramparts of Dunadd Fort will be a truly unforgettable experience.

Visit the Royal Court & Check Out the Historic Carvings

The Royal Court is one of the main attractions of Dunadd Fort. Located in the inner rampart of the fort, the Court is believed to be where ancient kings and queens of the Picts and Scots held court around 600AD. Here, you can view a selection of authentically carved stones which offer an insight into the long history of the fort.

The Royal Court carvings are protected by a circular stone wall and cover a range of topics, from everyday life to religion. A few of the carvings depict traditional Celtic symbols such as faces and animals, while others depict figurative scenes, including religious images and battles.

Take some time to walk around the area to get a feel for the historically rich atmosphere. Make sure to take photos to capture the unique beauty of the carvings.

View the Ancient Remains of Some of Dunadd’s Old Structures

Dunadd is an ancient site and was once one of the most important fortified centres in Scotland. It has had a long history, dating back to the Iron Age. There are many structures that can still be seen today, including the remains of a great citadel and royal court. A walk around the fort reveals evidence of the many different eras of occupation with the remains of fortifications, huts and pit houses.

For those interested in history, exploring the ancient ruins of Dunadd can be a truly awe-inspiring experience. Here, you can view the original stone walls, made from mortar rubble, which have been preserved for centuries. You will also be able to find fascinating pieces of pottery, carved stones and other artefacts that have been discovered here.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the ruin, which allows them to get up close to the old structures and learn more about their origins and how they were used. Alternatively, you can simply explore the ruins on your own and marvel at its grandeur. Whichever way you choose to explore, you will be sure to be rewarded with an insight into the past.

Learn About the 900-year-old Archaeology at the Excavation Area

If you’re looking to discover more of Dunadd’s history and heritage, then don’t forget to check out the exciting 900-year-old archaeology at the excavation area! This area is packed with evidence from Dunadd’s past and is open to visitors all year round, allowing you to explore and learn more about the ancient structures and artefacts.

After you arrive, a friendly guide will be there to provide you with information about any discoveries made and the history of the site. You can find the remains of ancient buildings, stone circles, fragments of pottery and even tools that were used by those living in and around the fort centuries ago. Archaeologists have also been able to uncover a range of valuable information on the economy, lifestyles and warfare of our ancestors who inhabited this area.

An excavation area is a great place for all ages as no matter if you’re an experienced archaeologist or just getting started, there is something interesting to learn here. There are also many activities available such as classroom tours, workshops and special events throughout the year, making it easy to have a fun and educational experience.

Visit the Visitor Centre for Information on the History and Heritage of Dunadd Fort

Dunadd Fort is one of Scotland’s most iconic historic sites, with a history spanning over 900 years. It’s a great place to visit if you want to experience the rich cultural heritage of this amazing place. Come and explore the history, archaeology, and wild beauty of this remarkable landmark by visiting the visitor centre.

At the visitor centre, you can find out more about Dunadd’s fascinating past. Ancient castle walls, strategic bastions, and medieval gardens remain in surprisingly intact condition – a testament to the skill of the fort’s ancient builders. From captivating stories of the battles fought here to the legacy of the Picts and Scots who once lived within its walls, you can discover plenty of colourful details from Dunadd’s history.

In addition to a range of displays, the visitor centre also has a range of activities, such as guided tours and workshops. You can also have a look at the interesting collections of artefacts, including coins, ceramics, and weapons that were used during the site’s long history. There’s also a cafe where you can relax and refuel before heading off to explore the rest of the fort’s wonders.

Walk around the Wall Walk for a Spectacular Aerial View

At Dunadd Fort, visitors will have the chance to take a beautiful, breathtaking walk along the Wall Walk. The Wall Walk is a circular path that takes visitors along the edge of the fort and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. From here, you can admire the rolling hills and lush valleys of Argyll in Scotland.

The path is well-maintained and easy to navigate – it’s suitable for all ages and abilities. No matter which way you go, you’ll be treated to stunning bird’s-eye views of Dunadd Fort and the surrounding area. It’s perfect for taking family photos or just simply admiring your surroundings.

The Wall Walk is a popular spot among both locals and tourists alike. Many visitors come to enjoy the scenery and take in the sights, while some take advantage of the unique vantage point by taking photos of the scenic landscapes below.

Take the Kids to the Playground & Picnic Areas Paved Around the Site

If you’re looking for a fun family activity during your visit to Dunadd Fort, why not bring your kids to the playground and picnic areas that are paved around the site? Located at the foot of the fortress walls, these areas offer various activities to entertain and challenge your children. The playground is equipped with swings, slides, and jungle gyms, and the picnic area has plenty of benches, tables, and umbrellas to enjoy a packed lunch or take a break from exploring.

Beyond the play area, there are also walking trails nearby where you can lead your children on a nature walk and teach them about the history and culture of the area. At the end of the day, your kids will be sure to leave with a sense of adventure and a newfound appreciation for Dunadd Fort.

Participate in Classroom & Workshop Tours Available throughout the Year

During your visit to Dunadd Fort, you can enjoy many tours that focus on its history and archaeology. Various classroom and workshop tours are offered throughout the year, ensuring that tourists of all ages can learn something new and interesting about the fort.

The tours give a comprehensive overview of the fort’s 900-year-old history and archaeological remains. You can also explore the inner and outer ramparts of Dunadd, as well as visit the Royal Court and view the historic carvings. During these tours, you will also learn about the excavation area and discover some of the ancient remains at the fort.

The knowledgeable tour guides will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have, making it an educational yet enjoyable experience. With their help, you will gain a greater appreciation of this wonderful site.

Enjoy Night Walks around Dunadd Using Flashlights During Winter Months

As the days become darker and the winter months take hold, take a walk out to experience the atmosphere of Dunadd Fort in the night. You’ll have the unique opportunity to explore the site in a much more intimate way compared to in the day – and your flashlight will be your only source of light!

The views of the fort at night are really quite spectacular. You can admire the illuminated ramparts and follow the path along the wall walk to get a bird’s eye view of the fort. With the help of your flashlight, you may also find yourself discovering previously hidden carvings in the stones.

If you’re coming with kids, make sure to bring a few extra sets of flashlights and divide them into groups as a fun game or challenge. Everyone can take turns finding their way from one end of the fort to the other – and don’t forget to look up and appreciate the night sky for a truly magical experience!

Wrap-Up: Final Thoughts & Summary of Things to do at Dunadd Fort

Dunadd Fort is an incredible place with so much to explore. Visitors are sure to have a great time learning about the history, heritage and archaeology that make this site so unique.

From climbing to the top of the hill and exploring the inner and outer ramparts to visiting the royal court and checking out the historic carvings, there is something for everyone at Dunadd.

Additionally, visitors can enjoy the spectacular aerial views from the wall walk, explore the excavation area to learn about 900-year-old archaeology, take the kids to the playground and picnic areas, participate in the classroom and workshop tours and finish the night with a flashlight tour around the fort during the cold winter months.

No matter what activities you choose to fill your day with, Dunadd Fort is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

Things to do at Dunadd Fort

• Q: What is Dunadd Fort?
  A: Dunadd Fort is an ancient hillfort in Kilmartin Glen in western Scotland. It was an important political centre during the Iron Age and possession of the fort was contested by various clans and kingdoms during the history of Scotland. It is also a popular tourist attraction that provides visitors with the opportunity to discover its rich heritage through multiple activities.
• Q: Where is Dunadd Fort located?
  A: Dunadd Fort is located in Kilmartin Glen, Scotland, towards the northern tip of Lochgilphead. It is a short ten-minute drive from Lochgilphead or forty minutes drive if you come from Glasgow.
• Q: What kind of things can I do at Dunadd Fort?
  A: There are many things to do at Dunadd Fort, including climbing the hill to reach the citadel, exploring the inner and outer ramparts, visiting the royal court and checking out the historic carvings, viewing the remains of some of Dunadd’s old structures, learning about the 900-year-old archaeological evidence in the excavation area, visiting the visitor centre for information on the history and heritage of Dunadd Fort, walking around the wall walk for a spectacular aerial view, taking the kids to the playground and picnic areas adjacent to the site, participating in classroom and workshop tours available throughout the year, enjoying night walks with flashlights during winter months.
• Q: Can I climb the hill to reach the castle?
  A: Yes, you can climb the hill to reach the citadel of Dunadd Fort, where you can explore the inner and outer ramparts, visit the royal court and check out the historic carvings. It is recommended you wear sturdy shoes or boots as they can be slippery during the wet winter months.
• Q: Is there a Visitor Centre at Dunadd Fort?
  A: Yes, there is a Visitor Centre at Dunadd Fort where you can learn more about the history and heritage of the fort. You can also get information about the different activities available at the site.
• Q: Does Dunadd Fort offer any educational programs?
  A: Yes, Dunadd Fort offers both classroom and workshop tours throughout the year, which provide visitors with a greater understanding of the fort’s rich heritage.
• Q: Are there any special activities running at Dunadd Fort during winter?
  A: Yes, visitors can enjoy night walks around the fort using flashlights during the winter months.