Haddo House is a Georgian stately home near Tarves and Ellon in Aberdeenshire, with Victorian interiors and gardens to explore. A guided tour takes you through rooms filled with paintings, family portraits, furniture and ceramics, and explains how the house changed over time. The Gordon family lived here for generations; during the Second World War, the house became a maternity hospital where more than 1,200 babies were born. Leave time for the estate grounds, chapel and woodland paths, then stop at one of the two cafés for a scone or homemade sausage roll.
A Georgian house with Victorian interiors
Scottish architect William Adam designed Haddo House in 1732 in the Palladian revival style. Changes made during the 19th century gave the house its mix of Georgian architecture and Victorian decoration. The interiors include paintings, furniture, ceramics and portraits of the Gordon family, who lived at Haddo for generations.
Look for the curving corridor leading to the library, as well as the rooms displaying paintings of castles in Aberdeenshire. The house’s layout has changed over time: the sides once held the stables and kitchen, and the main entrance was different from the one used today.
The Gordon family and the wartime hospital
The Gordons were closely connected with Haddo House for centuries. Their family portraits and possessions offer details of the people who made the house their home.
During the Second World War, Haddo House was used as a maternity hospital. More than 1,200 babies were born there, and they became known as Haddo babies. The house’s guided tours cover its changing history and the stories attached to its rooms.
Gardens, chapel and estate walks
The grounds extend beyond the house, with gardens, woodland walks, lakes, tall trees and a children’s play area. Marked paths lead through the estate, giving you room to make a longer visit after the indoor tour. The gardens are also a reason to plan a visit for May or June, when flowers are more likely to be in bloom.
The chapel in the grounds is still used by the family for events. The estate also has two cafés, so you can pause for coffee and something to eat between the house and the grounds.
Häufige Fragen
How long does a tour of Haddo House take?
The guided house tour takes a little over an hour. Allow extra time if you want to walk around the gardens and estate.
What time do guided tours start?
Scheduled tours start at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Places are limited, so arriving early is advised.
What is Haddo House known for?
It is a Georgian stately home designed by William Adam in 1732, with Victorian interiors and a long connection to the Gordon family. During the Second World War, it served as a maternity hospital where more than 1,200 babies were born.
Are there cafés at Haddo House?
Yes. There are two cafés on the estate. Homemade sausage rolls and scones are among the items available.
