Aberdeenshire is one of the most famous counties of Scotland known for its magnificent historical castles. In fact, with over 260 castles stately homes, and ruins, Aberdeenshire is known as ”Scotland’s Castle Country”. The historic county has more castles per acre than anywhere else in the UK.
Here are some of the most impressive castles in Aberdeenshire.
Fraser Castle
The castle was built between 1575 and 1636 by the 6th laird Micheal Fraser. It is one of the most elaborate Z-plan castles in Scotland and has one of the largest tower houses in the country. Fraser Castle is filled with family heirlooms, portraits, and souvenirs. In 1921, the Fraser family sold the house because of financial difficulties. Weetman Pearson, viscount of Cowdray, bought the house and restored it. Later, it was given to the National Trust of Scotland.
Balmoral Castle
Balmoral Castle is one of the residences of the British royal family. The castle is an example of the Scottish Baronial architecture. Prince Albert bought the castle from the Farquharson Family in 1852.
The castle was the summer residence of Queen Elizabeth II, who died there on 8 September 2022.
Fyvie Castle
With its eight-hundred-year-old history, Fyvie Castle is one of the oldest castles under the care of the National Trust for Scotland. The castle is a great example of Scottish Baronial architecture. It welcomed many historical guests like William the Lion, Robert the Bruce, and Charles I. There is a vast collection of artworks, antiquities, and armor inside the castle.
On the grounds of the castle, there is a picturesque lake and an unusual glass-roofed racquet court.
Slains Castle
Slains Castle, despite being a ruin, is among the most memorable castles in Aberdeenshire. Also known as the New Slains Castle, it is located on the coast of Cruden Bay. It was built by the Earl of Erroll in the 16th century and has been constructed many times since then. Because of the harsh climate and the misfortunes that befell the family, Slains Castle turned to ruins.
The castle is believed to have inspired Bram Stoker for the setting of the tale in his work Count Dracula (1897).
Craigievar Castle
Another great example of Scottish Baronial architecture, Craigievar Castle is believed to be an inspiration for Walt Disney.
Braemar Castle
The castle was built in the 17th century by the Earl of Mar. It has been a hunting lodge, garrison, family home, and fortress. After the Jacobite Risings, the castle was bought by the Farquharson family. The castle is famous for its castellated turrets, L-plan architecture, bottle-necked dungeon, and star-shaped curtain wall. It is now under construction.
Crathes Castle
Crathes Castle was built in the 16th century in the historic county of Kincardineshire. The Burnetts of Leys built the harled castle and cared for it for about 400 years. It is now under the care of the National Trust for Scotland.
