Castles

Scotland’s Castle Country

Jump to another category...

From ancient pine forests and rolling farmland to dramatic cliffs and snow-capped mountains, Aberdeenshire’s castles are set in some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes. With 263 castles once standing across the region, more per acre than anywhere else in the British Isles, Aberdeenshire truly earns its title as ‘Scotland’s Castle Country.’

A History Written in Stone

Each castle tells a story of power, ambition and resilience. Centuries of history unfold through Iron Age hillforts, clifftop ruins, medieval strongholds, baronial masterpieces and grand Jacobean mansions. These fortresses once witnessed invasions, uprisings and royal intrigue, their walls echoing the events that shaped Scotland’s past.

Dunnottar Castle 167 DS 35 1

Inspiration for Storytellers

The region’s castles continue to captivate imaginations. Writers and filmmakers such as Robert Louis Stevenson, Bram Stoker, Walt Disney and Franco Zeffirelli have all drawn from their timeless charm and mystery.

Craigievar Castle castles

Balmoral: The Crown Jewel

At the heart of Royal Deeside stands Balmoral Castle, the beloved summer residence of the Royal Family since the 19th century, described by Queen Victoria as “my dear paradise in the Highlands.”

Balmoral castle

Search All Our Businesses

IMG 9765
  • Countryside
  • |
  • History & Heritage

Braemar Castle

Dunnideer Castles 2
  • Coast
  • |
  • History & Heritage

Dunnideer Castle

DUNNOTTAR CASTLE 7 G3 A9853 low res23
  • Countryside
  • |
  • History & Heritage

Aberdeenshire Castle Trail

Balmoral Master
  • Countryside
  • |
  • History & Heritage

Balmoral Castle

Slains Castle low res2
  • Coast
  • |
  • History & Heritage

Slains Castle

Craigievar External View
  • Countryside
  • |
  • History & Heritage

Craigievar Castle & Estate

Subscribe for insider tips

Sign up for travel inspiration, upcoming events, and insider tips from the region’s official tourism organisation.

Craigievar Castle 142 DS 31 2