PLACE REVIEW: KILDRUMMY AND GLENBUCHAT CASTLES

KILDRUMMY CASTLE

Photo by Rachel Nigh

WHAT TO LOOK FOR AT THE SITE AND WHO ITS SUITED FOR:
This castle is growing in our estimation each time we visit. It is such a ruined castle that there isn't anything to climb besides a few steps here and there but its placement in the gorgeous countryside and its story makes us come back for more. It is known as the noblest of the northern castles, and we think it lives up to its title. If you do get out to this castle, make sure to buy the book to it as it was a fascinating strategic place for many battles which included Robert the Bruce, whose brother and even himself sometimes lived there.

GIFT SHOP / TEA ROOM / RESTAURANT / TOILET AVAILABILITY:
There is a gift shop and toilets available at Kildrummy but no luxuries or shops at Glenbuchat down the road.

AFFILIATIONS AND COSTS: This site is part of Historic Scotland.
Non members: Adult £3.70, Child £2.20, Concession £3.00

OPENING TIMES: April 1st through September 30th all week from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm Closed for the winter October through March

LOCATION / TIME IT TAKES TO GET THERE:
Kildrummy is a bit farther afield at just over an hour to get there but you can see other castles nearby and make a fuller trip out of it. Take the A944 out past Alford.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Visit the Historic Scotland website and check Kildrummy: http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

PLACES TO VISIT NEARBY:
Glenbuchat Castle, not generally on the maps, is a lovely castle to visit. It is a mere 10 minutes further down the road. The people at Kildrummy Castle will point you in the right direction. Don't take that first right that says Glenbuchat, push on and about fifty yards ahead is the actual turn to the right for the castle. You park halfway up the hill by the little dummy wooden fence and walk across the pasture land through the sheep to the castle. Do not go all the way up the driveway as its residential! This castle is unmanned so it doesn't matter if you have a membership or not and the views of the surrounding Caingorms with the little lambs playing about is simply perfect. The castle itself is a great one with lots of winding stairs and a stellar view from the top. Its okay with kids and you don't have to be overly worried about them crashing down from on high. Little ones will need a hand but the pastures surrounding are fun for everyone. Great place for a picnic.

GLENBUCHAT CASTLE (pronounced Glen-bucket)