To be or not to be a top attraction: That is Dunnottar’s question

Dunnottar Castle, near Stonehaven, was used as the dramatic setting for Franco Zeffirelli’s Hamlet, starring Mel Gibson, in 1990, while the castle was also the basis for the castle on the Disney cartoon film Brave.

Deputy custodian Martin Gray said they regularly welcome visitors who ask about the films in which the castle was used, and sometimes younger children come to visit dressed up as Merida from Brave (or other Disney princesses).

Martin said: “Discussions with visitors uncover an interest in settings of programmes such as Outlander and Game Of Thrones, and although neither of these were filmed here, people often comment it seems like it could have been used as a location.

Programmes such as these definitely seem to inspire an appreciation for the Scottish castles and landscapes, especially for overseas visitors who do not have similar attractions at home.”

Martin added that social media definitely benefits Dunnottar.

The “organic reach” from people sharing pictures is huge and this then encourages people to add the castle as a wish-list destination.

“This then leads to exposure to the North East of Scotland in general,” he added, “and I think people are realising that it has much to offer.

“Certainly a lot of our visitors investigate Stonehaven and are impressed by the natural beauty of the setting and the warm welcome received in hotels or bed & breakfast establishments and pubs.”

Dunnottar Castle is the perfect setting for films.