Royal Deeside and Aberdeenshire

Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle was purchased by Queen Victoria in the 19th century and developed as the Royal Family's holiday home in Scotland.

Braemar Castle

Braemar Castle was built in 1628 and featured in many of the Jacobite wars of the 17th and 18th Century. Later it was repaired and converted to a garrison for Hanovarian troops.

Kildrummy Castle

Kildrummy has been described as the noblest of northern castles. It was a stronghold of the Earls of Mar. All that stands now are the ruins of the 13th century courtyard castle which was dismantled after the first Jacobite rising in 1715. The complete layout of the domestic buildings is still intact.

Leith Hall

This fine mansion house stands as a living monument to the Leith family who lived here for almost 300 years. Find out more about how they lived as you wander through the elegantly furnished rooms. Explore the estate trails outside and lose yourself amongst the colourful herbaceous borders.

Huntly Castle

Known also as Strathbogie Castle, this glorious ruin stands on the bank of the River Deveron. It is in itself a history lesson in the development of the Scottish castle from the earliest Norman fortress to the palace of the 17th century. The most striking features of this former stronghold of the Gordons, are the splendid heraldic doorway and carved fireplaces.