Clan Donald Skye - Castle & Gardens

Discover the history of the Highlands and Islands through the story of Clan Donald, its most powerful clan, at our award-winning museum.

Clan Donald Skye is a 20,000-acre highland estate on the Sleat peninsula in south Skye. Once part of the traditional lands of Clan Donald, the Estate was then purchased by the Clan Donald Lands Trust in 1971. The Trust was established to promote an understanding of the history and traditions of Clan Donald and the Lordship of the Isles. As custodians of this wonderful estate, the Trust has worked tirelessly to save and develop this important resource for the benefit of visitors to Skye and, importantly, for the local community.

The Estate offers some stunning walks for all levels of fitness, with views eastwards across the Sound of Sleat to Knoydart, or on the west of the peninsula across to the Cuillin mountain range. It is home to iconic wildlife species including red deer, golden eagles and sea eagles.

The Estate’s principal focal points are the restored historic gardens, and the beautiful walking trails threading through the 40 acres of woodland around Armadale Castle. Part of the Castle has been restored and the striking ruined remains sensitively re-designed, to create an attractive landscape within the gardens.

The fully accredited Museum of the Isles, opened within the gardens in 2002, incorporates the Library and Study Centre. The Trust has also built holiday accommodation and established a lively and vibrant Visitor Centre that appeals to all age groups. Disabled facilities are available at the Centre.