Overlooking the harbour is Dunbar Castle, which is now ruins and home to a kittiwake colony.
Historically, the castle protected Scots from English invasion in the 13th century, and in 1566 it sheltered a heavily pregnant Mary Queen of Scots, who was fleeing after the murder of David Rizzio, her private secretary, at the Palace of Holyrood. More drama than a Netflix film.
History: From Siege to Mary Queen of Scots
The castle was one of the most powerful strongholds in medieval Scotland, guarding the approach to Edinburgh from the south-east. It changed hands repeatedly during the Wars of Independence and was partly slighted (deliberately dismantled) in the 16th century so it could never again be held against the crown.
Its most famous moment came in 1566, when Mary Queen of Scots sheltered here after the murder of David Rizzio. Today only jagged red-sandstone fragments remain, perched dramatically over the harbour mouth.
Not to Be Confused With “Dun Dunbar”
Dunbar Castle is not the same as Dun Dunbar, the fictional castle from the film A Castle For Christmas. Dun Dunbar isn’t real — its filming locations were split between Inveraray Castle and Dalmeny House in South Queensferry, while the “village” is actually Culross in Fife. East Lothian’s own Tantallon Castle, a few miles up the coast, did appear during filming.
Visiting the Ruins Today
The ruins sit right beside Victoria Harbour, so you can take them in as part of a harbour walk. There is no interior access — the structure is unstable — but the exterior view and the seabird colony are the draw. Bring a zoom lens in early summer for the nesting kittiwakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you go inside Dunbar Castle?
No. The ruins are unstable and fenced for safety, so you can only view the castle from the harbour and surrounding paths. The exterior views over Victoria Harbour are the highlight.
Is Dunbar Castle the castle from A Castle For Christmas?
No. The film’s “Dun Dunbar” is fictional and was shot at Inveraray Castle and Dalmeny House. Nearby Tantallon Castle in East Lothian did feature during filming.
How much does it cost to see Dunbar Castle?
Nothing. The ruins are freely viewable from the harbour area at any time.