The castle has a long history in film and television, most famously appearing in Highlander (1986), as well as major productions such as James Bond: The World Is Not Enough and several historical dramas. Its instantly recognisable silhouette makes it a popular stand-in for classic Highland and fantasy settings. Eilean Donan has returned to the spotlight for the new Highlander reboot (starring Henry Cavill), which has been filming on location in Scotland in 2026. Production has taken over the castle grounds for key scenes, reusing the location’s strong connection to the original film. Cast members including Cavill have been spotted filming period Highland sequences on site, with the castle again representing Clan MacLeod’s world and the wider 16th-century Scottish setting of the story. Today, visitors can explore the surrounding viewpoints overlooking the castle and lochs, the nearby village of Dornie, and the scenic drive toward Kyle of Lochalsh and the Isle of Skye. The area remains one of the most important stops on Scotland’s west coast, combining cinematic history, clan heritage, and some of the country’s most dramatic Highland scenery
Filmed here
Still from the original Highlander 1986 Movie
Filming is currently ongoing of the new Highlander Reboot Starring Henry Cavill
