Crathes Castle, Garden and Estate is a historic castle and garden attraction near Banchory in Aberdeenshire. Inside the 16th-century tower house, a self-guided visit takes you through rooms with painted ceilings, family portraits and furniture; the Horn of Leys is displayed in the Great Hall. Outside, explore the walled garden, woodland walks and trails, or let children play in the outdoor adventure area. The cafe serves cakes, cappuccino and soft drinks for a break between the castle and grounds.
The castle and the Burnett family
The land at Crathes was granted to the Burnett family by King Robert the Bruce in 1323. The Horn of Leys, now displayed in the Great Hall, is associated with that grant. Construction of the castle began in 1553, and the building was established as a tower house in the 16th century.
The Burnett family lived at Crathes for around 350 years. Their history is still visible in the rooms, where painted ceilings sit alongside family portraits and furniture. The castle’s towers and turrets give it a distinctive outline, while inside, the Great Hall is notable for its high, arched ceiling.
Painted ceilings and rooms
Several rooms retain painted ceilings from the castle’s earlier history. These designs are among the details to look for as you follow the self-guided route through the house. The interiors also contain objects connected with the family and their time at Crathes.
Photography is restricted in some areas, so check the rules as you go. The route includes tight, circular stairs; this can affect how comfortable the indoor visit is for anyone with limited mobility. If stairs are a concern, you can focus your visit on the gardens and estate instead.
The garden and estate
The walled garden is a major part of a visit to Crathes. It brings together exotic plants and trees, and includes a 20th-century art garden. The estate also has woodland trails and walking routes, with ponds and small rivers among the wooded areas. You can choose a shorter walk or spend longer exploring further into the grounds.
The gardens have a different appeal from the castle rooms, so consider a gardens-only ticket if you want to concentrate on the outdoor areas. Spring and summer are associated with outdoor ceremonies in the Golden Garden. The estate also hosts family events, which can include face painting and arts and crafts.
A family visit and cafe stop
The outdoor play area gives younger visitors space to climb, scramble and move between play structures. Its equipment includes slides, sandpits, high-level walkways and a zip wire. Some of the play features draw on stories and details connected with the castle.
After exploring the house or grounds, the cafe is a place to pause for a cake, cappuccino or soft drink. A gift shop is also on site. Dogs are not permitted in the gardens, although other parts of the estate are accessible to them; plan your route accordingly if you are visiting with a dog.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Crathes Castle?
Crathes Castle is near Banchory in Aberdeenshire. Its address is Crathes, Banchory, AB31 5QJ.
What can you see inside Crathes Castle?
The castle has rooms with painted ceilings, family portraits and furniture. The Horn of Leys is displayed in the Great Hall.
Can you visit the gardens without touring the castle?
Yes. Gardens-only tickets are an option for exploring the garden and woodland trails without taking the castle tour.
Are dogs allowed at Crathes Castle?
Dogs are not allowed in the gardens, but other parts of the estate are accessible to them.
