One of the Highland’s most visited tourist attractions has increased its security measures.
The iconic Eilean Donan Castle at Dornie near Kyle of Lochalsh, attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world every year.
The castle sits on a small island and is reached by walking over a stone bridge from the main road.
But visitors are being asked to leave any backpacks or rucksacks behind as they will not be permitted to enter the castle wearing them.
A random bag-search policy is also now in operation and visitors may be asked to open theirs for inspection.
A new security notice has been erected at the castle which states: “Please note that in the interest of public safety small backpacks and rucksacks are NOT permitted inside the castle, and should be left in your vehicle.
“Please note also that we operate a random bag-search policy, and as such you may be asked to open your bag for inspection.”
The castle has been a magnet for visitors since it was re-opened in 1932 after 20 years of restoration work.
Although the first fortified castle was built on the site in the 13th century, it was partially destroyed as a result of a Jacobite uprising and lay in ruins for almost 200 years.
Lieutenant Colonel John MacRae-Gilstrap bought the island in 1911 and began the restoration work. The MacRae family are still constables of the castle today.
As well as being one of the most photographed castles in the world, Eilean Donan has also been seen on the silver screen in epics such as The Master of Ballantrae in 1953, Highlander in 1986 and the James Bond blockbuster, The World is Not Enough, in 1999.
The castle keeper was contacted about the new security protocols, but he was unavailable for comment at the time of going to press.