Crathes Castle

Standing against a backdrop of rolling hills and set within its own glorious gardens, Crathes Castle is every inch the classic Scottish tower house – and a fantastic day out for all the family.

The Burnett family, who lived in the castle for over 350 years, had roots in the area dating back to 1323 when Robert the Bruce granted them nearby land. Alexander Burnett built the castle in the 16th century, an intricate maze of turrets, towers, oak panels and painted ceilings, many of which survive beautifully to this day.

Inside you’ll find a labyrinth of cultural history, from family portraits to fine antique furniture. The castle contains a significant collection of portraits, and intriguing original Scottish renaissance painted ceilings survive in several Jacobean rooms including the Chamber of the Muses, the Chamber of Nine Worthies and the Green Lady’s Room.

The castle estate contains 530 acres of woodlands and fields, including nearly 4 acres of walled garden.Within the walled garden are paths with herbaceous borders split into eight sections that encompass every green delight imaginable. A sculpted topiary, soft herbaceous colours and modern exotic blooms contrast with yew hedges that are thought to have been planted as early as 1702.

Archeological works at the castle in 2004 uncovered a series of pits believed to date from about 10,000 years ago. The monument was analysed in 2013 and dated somewhere between 8000 BC to about 4000 BC thus making it the world’s oldest known lunar calendar.