Braemar and the surrounding area is steeped in history and is home to many castles to visit during your stay.
Braemar Castle is a magnificent castle in a commanding location in Braemar close to the river Dee. Built by the Earl of Mar in 1628, the castle was also used as an 18th century garrison and was home to the Chiefs of Clan Farquharson. Learn about Jacobites, ghosts and see soldiers’ graffiti in 12 beautifully furnished rooms. Expect a warm welcome in the only castle in Scotland run by local volunteers and take a guided or an audio tour. The Castle is open from Easter until the end of October.
Kindrochit Castle is a ruined castle in the centre of Braemar village, the first castle to be built in the village. Some of the walls are still standing, the rest have been used for other buildings or removed to build roads. Kindrochit Castle was built between 1057 and 1093 by King Malcolm III, King of Scotland. The castle was then named Ceann-drochit meaning Bridge Head. Kindrochit castle can be visited year round, in the Summer months the local history group organise guided tours which include information about this fascinating Castle.
Balmoral Castle is the Scottish home of the Royal Family. Set in spectacular scenery, overlooked by the mighty munro Lochnagar. In her Journals, Queen Victoria described Balmoral as “my dear paradise in the Highlands”. Enjoy gardens, the castle ballroom, coffee and gift shop together with special exhibitions and audio handset tour. The Castle is open to the public for tours from Easter until the end of July. Winter tours are also available throughout November and December.
Corgafff Castle sits proud, isolated and imposing in the area of Strathdon. Corgarff Castle was a residence of the high status Forbes family. After Culloden in 1746, it was converted to become a Redcoat garrison fortress, largely to suppress Jacobite activity. Adaptations and additions include the distinctive star-shaped perimeter wall. The reconstructed barrack rooms offer a window into military life in the late 1700’s. Historic Scotland cares for the Castle, and it is open to the public from late March until the end of September.
Craigievar Castle looks like it is part of a living fairytale. Craigievar Castle is in the care of National Trust for Scotland and is a great example of Scottish baronial architecture, set in the spectacular rolling hills. The great tower stands just as it did when completed in 1626. The castle is home to original furniture, a fine collection of family portraits by artists such as George Jamesone and Raeburn, and ornate plaster ceilings. Visitors can also enjoy the grounds and waymarked trails surrounding the castle.
