Castle Fraser is the most elaborate Z-plan castle in Scotland and one of the grandest ‘Castles of Mar’. It is located 16 miles from the Aberdeen, near Kemnay. The castle stands in over 300 acres of landscaped grounds, woodland and farmland which includes a walled kitchen garden of the 19th century. There is archaeological evidence of an older square tower dating from around 1400 or 1500 within the current construction.
“From the striking simplicity of the medieval Great Hall to the well-stocked library and Victorian bedrooms, a tour of the castle gives a sense of walking through history. Each laird stamped his personality on the family seat, from the various ways of spying on those in the Great Hall to trophies gathered on global adventures.
The panoramic views from the top of the round tower are spectacular, revealing the courtyard, gardens and estate beyond, ready to be explored. The distinctive peaks of Bennachie can be seen in the distance. There are two waymarked walks on the estate that offer magnificent views of the local area.
The traditional walled garden includes specimen trees, herbaceous borders, a medicinal border and organically grown fruit and vegetables.
Explore the Woodland Secrets adventure playground, featuring wooden sculptures, a bamboo snake walk, tepees, a tree hut and a giant xylophone.
Dogs are welcome in the grounds, but we ask dogs to be on the lead near the children’s play area and in the courtyard.
Relax in the tearoom where you can enjoy home baking, tasty soups and sandwiches.”
VisitAberdeenshire
Drum Castle lies 11 miles to the west of Aberdeen along Royal Deeside. The original castle was granted to William de Irwyn by King Robert the Bruce in 1323. The castle remained within the Irvine family until 1975, when it was handed over to the National Trust of Scotland. Irvine memorabilia can be seen in the Family Room and the house contains a collection of portraits and Georgian furniture.
The castle is surrounded by hills and woodland with nature trails and guided walks.
The following article is an excellent guide to the the sights and tourist experiences of Aberdeen, and is useful for first time visitors (and returners). The Scotland Traveloholic website, which has many great articles, can be found here.
“Scotland is undoubtedly a country full of beautiful cities, interesting architecture, stunning nature and fantastic people. Each of Scotland’s cities has something beautiful, and I believe that it’s worth writing about them and getting the wider public familiar with these wonderful places. After my recent visit to Aberdeen, I decided to finally make a comprehensive guide to Aberdeen to inspire others to discover it’s unique beauty and charm.”
Please read more of this useful and informative guide to visiting Aberdeen by clicking on this link
Founder of Scotland Traveloholic, travel photographer and videographer. A head full of dreams and ideas ? Part of spreadit.studio – Travel Content Marketing & Digital Strategy Agency In Scotland.
Crathes Castle is a 16th-century castle near Banchory in the Aberdeenshire region of Scotland. The castle was built by the Burnetts of Leys and was held in that family for almost 400 years. The castle and grounds are now owned and managed by the National Trust for Scotland and are open to the public.
Wikipedia Page: Crathes Castle
5th April 2019
Dunnottar Castle (from Scottish Gaelic, Dùn Fhoithear, “fort on the shelving slope”) is a ruined castle located upon a rocky headland near Stonehaven, just south of Aberdeen.