The Water Gate
This gate linked Urquhart to the outside world. When roads were almost nonexistent, it was easier for people to travel along the loch by boat.
Everything the castle needed came through the water gate, including exotic imports like oranges and wine. The besieged garrison in 1689-90 held out with supplies smuggled in here. But the water gate was also a weak spot that raiders travelling in galleys could exploit.
The Sailors Secret
The mysterious tall building to your left was only accessible from outside the castle. It may have been for drying sails or nets.
Did You Know ...
Oliver Cromwell's troops launched a frigate — the Highland Galley — on Loch Ness after hauling it for five miles (8km) overland on rollers in 1652. They left Urquhart untouched — the castle was no longer a strategic stronghold.
( photo captions )
- Above: The water gate viewed from the lochside.
- Above: These clench bolts, shown with modern planks, were possibly used in boat building.
- Top: Boats similar to this galley from a graveslab on the Isle of Mull would have sailed on Loch Ness.

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Doocot
Ghosts of Urquhart's Past
The Stables
A Castle for All Seasons
The Service Close
Urquhart the Defiant
Loch Ness and the Great Glen
The Great Kitchen
The Great Raid of 1545
The Gatehouse

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