Scotland's best-value weekend break · Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire
Aberdeen weekend · Castle trail
Castles
No Scotland, no party.
The Castle Trail — more castles per square mile than anywhere in the UK.
Aberdeenshire has the highest density of castles anywhere in Britain. The 165-mile Castle Trail links 17 of the best, from the dramatic clifftop ruin of Dunnottar to the fairytale pink granite of Craigievar — many within an hour of Aberdeen.
Dunnottar Castle
Probably Scotland's most photographed ruin, Dunnottar sits on a sea stack above Stonehaven. Walk the clifftop path from town for the iconic approach shot.
Crathes, Craigievar and Drum
Royal Deeside's golden triangle: Crathes for its yew gardens, Craigievar for its pink fairytale tower and Drum for one of Scotland's oldest tower houses, all owned by the National Trust for Scotland.
Balmoral and the Castle Trail
The Queen's beloved Balmoral opens to visitors from April to August. Combine with Royal Lochnagar distillery and a Glen Muick walk for a perfect Royal Deeside day.
Common questions
FAQs about castles
How many castles are on the Aberdeenshire Castle Trail?+
The official Castle Trail links 17 castles across Aberdeenshire — the only castle trail of its kind in the UK.
Is Dunnottar Castle near Aberdeen?+
Yes — Dunnottar is just 30 minutes south of Aberdeen, near Stonehaven. Easily a half-day trip.
Keep exploring
