| Exploring Scotland’s Castle Trail: A Journey Through Time and History

16 Dec Exploring Scotland’s Castle Trail: A Journey Through Time and History

Posted at 11:52h in Aberdeenshire, Blethers, Places To Visit, Scottish Castles by Wee Scottish Explorer

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Visiting Scotland without exploring its iconic castles would be like having a meal without dessert—simply incomplete. Aberdeenshire, also known as Scotland’s Castle Country, boasts over 260 castles, ruins, and stately homes, offering us a chance to step back in time. From fairy-tale fortresses to grand mansions, the Scotland Castle Trail lets us experience history like never before. It’s a six-day adventure through the past, with 19 stunning castles to discover.

What is the Scotland Castle Trail?

The Scotland Castle Trail isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s an immersive experience through Aberdeenshire, an area with the highest concentration of castles per acre in the UK. Brown and white road signs guide us through picturesque landscapes, leading to some of the most dramatic and historically significant castles in the region.

The Perfect Six-Day Itinerary

We start our Castle Trail in Stonehaven and finish in Alford, but don’t worry—each day offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning Scottish landscapes. This guide breaks down what to expect day-by-day, giving us the full scope of what to see, explore, and marvel at.

Day 1: Stonehaven to Banchory

Dunnottar Castle: A Cliffside Wonder

Our journey begins at Dunnottar Castle, perched high on a dramatic cliff 160 ft above the North Sea. It’s said to have inspired the DunBroch family home in Disney Pixar’s Brave. Just imagine walking through these ruins, where figures like William Wallace and Mary Queen of Scots once roamed. We might even catch a glimpse of puffins or dolphins if we’re lucky!

Key Highlights:

Historic ruins with ties to legendary Scottish figures
Breathtaking coastal views
Pet-friendly grounds
Ample parking available

Crathes Castle: Fairytale with a Ghostly Twist

Next, we head inland to Crathes Castle. It looks like something straight out of a storybook, complete with spiral staircases, Jacobean ceilings, and a resident ghost—the Green Lady. But this isn’t just a castle for ghost hunters. The grounds offer six walking trails, and there’s a Go Ape! treetop adventure park for the more adventurous among us.

Things to do at Crathes Castle:

Explore the expansive gardens and yew hedges
Walk woodland trails
Enjoy a family-friendly adventure at Go Ape!

Drum Castle: The Oldest Castle of the Day

Ending our day in Drum Castle, we’re treated to a mix of medieval, Jacobean, and Victorian architecture. Its 13th-century tower and Jacobean mansion provide a fascinating contrast to the earlier castles. The woodland trails and walled rose garden are perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll.

Must-See Attractions:

Historic tower and mansion house
Beautiful rose garden
Woodland walks

Day 2: Into the Grampian Countryside

Castle Fraser: One of Scotland’s Grandest

Located about 16 miles west of Aberdeen, Castle Fraser is one of the most impressive structures on the trail. The Great Hall is particularly awe-inspiring, and the views from the castle are incredible. The real treat? The secluded walled garden and some homemade cakes at the tearoom.

Top Highlights:

Explore the Great Hall
Stroll through the walled garden
Visit the tearoom for delicious home-baked cakes

Tolquhon Castle: A Medieval Masterpiece

Described as one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland, Tolquhon Castle is an enchanting ruin near Oldmeldrum. The detailed stonework and carvings are a testament to medieval craftsmanship, and don’t forget to search for the secret compartment hidden above the laird’s quarters!

Features to Explore

Intricate carvings on the castle walls
Extensive castle grounds
Hidden compartments and secret rooms

Haddo House: Victorian Elegance

Our day concludes at Haddo House, an elegant mansion designed by William Adam. Inside, the rich Victorian interiors are paired with Georgian architecture, offering a luxurious look into Scotland’s past. The surrounding grounds, complete with lakes and walking paths, are just as impressive.

What to See:

Stunning Victorian interiors
Gardens and lakeside walks
Artworks by famous painters like Sir Thomas Lawrence

Day 3: Discover the Royal Deeside Castles

Balmoral Castle: A Royal Residence

It’s hard to visit Aberdeenshire without stopping by Balmoral Castle, the Queen’s Scottish home. The castle is only open to visitors when the Royal Family isn’t in residence, but when it is, we can enjoy the estate’s gardens, exhibitions, and a taste of the Royal experience.

Key Attractions:

View exhibitions about the Royal Family
Wander through the estate gardens
Explore the grounds on a guided tour

Braemar Castle: A Highland Fortress

Located in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, Braemar Castle is a sight to behold. Its imposing architecture and historical significance make it one of the most important castles on the trail.

Don’t Miss:

Fascinating history displays
Scenic walks around the castle grounds

Day 4: Castles of the Moray Coast

Duff House: An Art Lover’s Dream

Heading northeast, we reach Duff House, an 18th-century mansion near Banff. This castle is home to a rich collection of artwork, offering a different flavor to the other castles we’ve explored so far.

Highlights:

Impressive art collections
Stunning baroque architecture
Guided tours available

Huntly Castle: The Home of the Gordons

One of the most historically rich stops on our tour, Huntly Castle was the seat of the Gordon Clan. Its detailed stone carvings and inscriptions give us a unique glimpse into Scotland’s past.

What to Look For:

Ancient stone carvings
Historical inscriptions detailing the Gordon family’s history

Day 5: Castles of the North East

Fyvie Castle: Spooky and Stunning

Famous for its resident ghosts, Fyvie Castle is a captivating mix of history, legend, and art. The impressive architecture is matched only by the eerie tales of spirits that haunt the castle halls.

Features:

Stunning interiors and architecture
Ghost stories and legends
Historical art collections

Delgatie Castle: Hidden Gem

Tucked away in Turriff, Delgatie Castle offers us a peaceful retreat. Its beautiful tapestries, paintings, and furniture make it a cozy, less-crowded stop on our trail.

Things to Do:

Explore the castle’s rich collection of art and tapestries
Relax in the tranquil surroundings

Day 6: Final Day in Alford

Craigievar Castle: A Fairytale Come True

We wrap up our journey at Craigievar Castle, one of the most recognizable castles in Scotland. Its pink walls and towering turrets make it feel like we’ve stepped into a fairy tale.