Scotland’s Northeast Castle Trail

Sample Itinerary

Day 1

Stonehaven, Banchory, Drumoak

Basing yourself in the city of Aberdeen, your first day on the trail takes you to the impressive ruins of Dunnottar Castle, on to the fairytale Crathes Castle and finishes at Drum Castle, a fine Jacobean mansion house.

Day 2

Sauchen, Tarves, Methlick

Day two on the trail takes you west and north of Aberdeen. Head to Castle Fraser and enjoy the splendid interiors of this grand castle before travelling north through the beautiful Grampian Countryside to Tolquhon Castle and on to Haddo House, an elegant mansion house.

Day 3

Turiff, Delgaty, Banff

On the third day of your tour you’ll travel from Aberdeen to Banff, located on the glittering Moray Firth coastline. Stops include Fyvie Castle, where you can see a treasure trove of fascinating objects, Delgatie Castle, which boasts magnificent painted ceilings, and Duff House, Banff’s magnificent William Adam masterpiece.

Day 4

Huntly, Elgin, Dufftown

The fourth day of your trip takes you on a circular route from Huntly around three splendid ruins, Huntly Castle, Spynie Palace and Balvenie Castle.

Day 5

Huntly, Alford, Corgarff

Day five features three very different castles. Leith Hall is packed with treasures for you to uncover, Kildrummy Castle offers great views of the wild lands of Strathdon and Corgarff Castle gives an insight into barrack life in the 1700s.

Day 6

Braemar, Ballater, Craigievar

The final day of your tour takes you through the heart of Royal Deeside. Begin at Braemar Castle and see the interesting curios of this 17th century stronghold. Travel on to Balmoral Castle, the splendid Scottish holiday home of the Royal Family, and finish your day at fairytale Craigievar Castle, which is decorated with turrets and gargoyles.