Craigievar Castle
Craigievar Castle in Aberdeenshire
Signposted on the A980 south of Alford
Six miles south of Alford is one of the northeast's most gorgeous castles, the classic tower house of Craigievar, with its impressive turrets, balustrades and cupolas. The castle remains much as it was when it was built in 1626 by wealthy local merchant, William Forbes. Unfortunately, though, its popularity led to its deterioration and the NTS now restricts entry to only a small number of visitors at a time to prevent further damage. Restoration work is ongoing on a castle that stands in extensive parkland with a waymarked path.
An extraordinary tower house built in 1620 and altered very little since then to retain many of its original features and fittings are still can be seen. The castles is hardly publicised and is by guided tour only so you may have to wait at busy times. However, it is well worth a visit with many original features and amusing extras from later ages.
Castle open mid-Apr to 30 Sep Fri-Tue 1200-1730 (last admission 1645); grounds open all year daily 0930-dusk, £10,£7 concession. Tel.01339-883635