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Scotland's Best B&Bs
This area is home to Scotland’s only Castle Trail - a selection of 13 unique castles and often referred to as Castle Country. Experience the romance and history of these restored family castles, ruins and stately homes, by simply following the trail. With its distinctive white on brown signs and a blue castle logo, which leads you through the heart of Aberdeenshire, it couldn't be a simpler day out.
Scotland's Best B&Bs hosts will be happy to check opening times and tour times before you set out for a day visiting castles
Near Banchory, 12 miles east of Aberdeen - One of the most beautiful and best preserved castles in Scotland occupied by the Burnetts of Leys for over 350 years and set against a magnificent garden with its world-renowned June border. The Horsemill bookshop is an exciting new addition to the existing Courtyard café and retail facilities at Crathes. The National Trust for Scotland. Admission charges apply.
Scottish home to the Royal Family since it was purchased for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1852. Extensive grounds, gardens, exhibitions, gift shop and coffee shop. Usually open to the public each year from April to early August. Sadly H.M. The Queen passed away here on 8th September 2022.
2 miles south of Stonehaven - Dating from 1276, this stronghold of the former Earls Marischal of Scotland enjoys a spectacular narrow cliff top setting. It withstood an eight month siege by Cromwellian forces in 1652 and during this time, the Scottish crown jewels were supposedly lowered into a small boat at the foot of the cliff to keep them out of English hands. More recently, Dunottar provided a stunning location for Franco Zeffirelli's film of Shakespeare's "Hamlet". Admission charges apply.
B&Bs near Dunnottar Castle - Kinnaber Bed & Breakfast, Edzell, Newton Farm, Inverarity
Near Alford. Biggest and best example of 13th century castle in Scotland. Gardens. Open daily from April to September. Admission charge.
B&Bs near Kildrummy Castle - Brandon Lodge near Portsoy
Corgarff Castle at Cock Bridge, Upper Donside - 16th century tower house converted to barracks for Redcoats. Furnished and complete. Spectacular position. Admission charge. Historic Scotland. Open daily April - September. Admission charges apply.
B&Bs near Corgarff Castle - Brandon Lodge near Portsoy
Near Alford, 15 miles from Banchory - This fairytale castle which inspired Walt Disney for his ‘Cinderella’ is an example of the best of Scottish Baronial architecture. It was built by William Forbes in 1626. The castle is open April to October. Admission charges apply. Grounds open all year. The National Trust for Scotland.
B&Bs near Craigievar Castle - Brandon Lodge near Portsoy
8 miles south-east of Turriff - Historic castle dating back to the 13th century when it was a royal stronghold. Impressive collection of paintings, portraits, fine furniture, tapestries, arms and armour. The National Trust for Scotland. Admission charges apply. Castle open from April to December (Thursday to Sunday).
B&Bs near Fyvie Castle - Brandon Lodge near Portsoy
Ruined 16th century castle with wonderful Gothic atmosphere at Strathdon. Open all year. Admission free.
B&Bs near Glenbuchat Castle - Brandon Lodge near Portsoy
Near Banchory - The original 13th century keep has an adjoining Jacobean mansion house and additions made by Victorian lairds. There are woodland trails and a garden of historic roses in the grounds. The National Trust of Scotland. Admission charges apply. Open all year.
16 miles west of Aberdeen - Built between 1575 and 1636, this magnificent building contains an array of historic furnishings, paintings and embroidery. Extensive parkland. Shop and tearoom. The National Trust for Scotland. Admission charges apply. Castle open April to mid December. Garden and grounds open all year.
B&Bs near Castle Fraser - Brandon Lodge near Portsoy
This historic ruin near Cruden Bay overlooks the North Sea in dramatic fashion. Originally built in the 16th century by the 9th Earl of Erroll (Clan Hay), it has been rebuilt numerous times. Nowadays its main claim to fame is the association with author Bram Stoker who stayed here and found inspiration for Count Dracula.
B&Bs near Slains Castle - Brandon Lodge near Portsoy
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