Aberdeenshire Castle Trail

Four days, five magnificent castles

The castle trail in Aberdeenshire brings together an impressive eighteen of the world’s unique castles on one trail, proving that the local area isn’t all about granite stone.

With a suggested itinerary of four days exploring the castle sites, it’s the perfect trip for archaeology and history enthusiasts. Beginning on a high note (literally) the trail starts with Dunnottar Castle, perched on the 160ft high cliff edge above the North Sea. Steeped in history and famously fought over by Wallace and Cromwell for possession, the castle is easily recognizable from the Zeffirelli film of “Hamlet.” Keep an eye out for wildlife and for a chance to spot some elusive puffins and dolphins and be sure to bring your camera to take home some of those wonderful outdoor memories.

Heading north from the Stonehaven area, brings you into the vicinity of three castles – Crathes, Banchory and Drum. These are castles of fairy-tale proportions and you can spend the day swept up in the romance of woodlands trails and local mythology to create your own magical experience.

Heading further north, visit the grand Castle Fraser. With a great hall and a children’s playground, it’s the perfect destination to sit back and relax with an afternoon snack of tea and cake.

Navigating the castle trail in Aberdeenshire

Accessible by a downloadable map available through Visit Scotland, the trail can also be followed easily through the distinctive signposts along the road.

To find out more about the Castle trail in Aberdeenshire, head on over to the Visit Scotland site here or get in touch to book onto one of our special offers with Cortes House.

This is certainly one of the top things to do in Aberdeenshire.