Dun Dornaigil Broch (Dun Dornadilla, Dun Dornagail)

One of the best preserved brochs in Scotland, perched on the banks of Strathmore River with magnificent views of Strath More and Ben Hope, this is one of the highlights of the Scottish Broch trail. The broch has been buttressed to support the original stonework which rises to a height of 22ft, and the interior has been turfed over to preserve what is left of the broch. The site has a rich history, and there are even stories that it was the seat of the legendary King Dornadilla of Scotland, who reigned from 262 AD.

Access is by taking the single track Hope Road from Alnaharra. There is parking right beside the broch, which is perched beside the road on the banks of the Strathmore River. This single track road is marked as unsuitable for caravans, which is good advice, as passing places are few and far between and rather on the small side. If you venture down there with a caravan you risk having to reverse considerable distances.

Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. © Crown Copyright. All rights reserved.

Dun Dornaigil broch photographs

Dun Dornaigil 01

Dun Dornaigil 02

Dun Dornaigil 03

Dun Dornaigil 04

Dun Dornaigil 05

Dun Dornaigil 06

Dun Dornaigil 07

Dun Dornaigil 08

Dun Dornaigil 09

Dun Dornaigil 10

Disclaimer: Some brochs were built with military defensive purpose, and as such can be situated in extremely dangerous areas, such as on the edge of cliffs and ravines. Additionally, these are Iron Age structures, most of them in ruins, and they are extremely hazardous, with crumbling stone walls and hidden chambers. Existing walls, lintels, and passages could collapse at any time. The information here is provided free but it is your responsibility to ensure its accuracy, ensure your own safety, and acquire permissions for access where necessary. Accessing brochs is done entirely at your own risk.