National Trust for Scotland Castles, Gardens & Attractions in NE Scotland

Crathes Castle

Turrets and towers, winding staircases, ornate ceilings and ancient sculpted yew trees, combine to make a visit to Crathes Castle, Garden and Estate a great day out for the whole family. A visit is enhanced by the 1.5 hectares of walled garden, which incorporates herbaceous borders and many unusual plants, providing a wonderful display at all times of the year. The great yew hedges, fascinating examples of the art of topiary, date from as early as 1702. Explore the estate on the seven waymarked trails, including one suitable for wheelchairs, which lead through the mixed woodlands, along the Coy Burn and past the millpond. At the property there is the Courtyard Café offering fresh home bakes, flavorsome food using local produce and an antiques display with the option to buy.

 

Drum Castle

Take in an enormous sweep of Scottish history as experienced by the Irvine family who lived in Drum Castle for over 650 years, from the 14th century onwards. The combination of a 13th century square tower, a Jacobean mansion house and the additions of Victorian lairds make Drum Castle unique among Scottish castles. The grounds contain the Old Wood of Drum ancient oak woodland with Site of Special Scientific Interest designation mixed woodlands, three way-marked walks and an arboretum. Within the old walled garden is a fine collection of historic roses.

Craigievar Castle

An iconic tower house and Fairytale castle which is a fine example of Scottish Baronial architecture, and seems to have grown naturally out of the rolling hills. The great tower stands just as it did when completed in 1626. Surrounding the castle are extensive parkland grounds, which are open to the public. These gardens are especially attractive in early summer when the bluebells are in bloom. The estate trails offer the most spectacular views of the Castle and the chance to spot a red squirrel or a pine-martin.

 

Fyvie Castle 

Castle Fraser

House of Dun

Leith Hall

Barry Mill

JM Barrie's Birth Place

Haddo House

Pitmedden Gardens