Braemar Castle
- Aug 17
- 3 min read
Braemar Castle is a striking 17th-century fortress nestled in the heart of Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Built in 1628 by John Erskine, Earl of Mar, it served as both a hunting lodge and a strategic stronghold during turbulent times. Over the centuries, it has been a garrison, a noble residence, and a symbol of resilience—surviving Jacobite uprisings, royal visits, and community-led restoration efforts.
Today, the castle is run by local volunteers through Braemar Community Ltd, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history, from redcoat soldiers to royal gatherings.
Highlights
Historic Interiors: Explore 12 furnished rooms filled with stories of Jacobite uprisings, Hanoverian soldiers, and 20th-century glamour courtesy of Frances Farquharson, a fashion editor who added her signature Schiaparelli pink to the décor.
Jacobite Connections: The castle played a key role in all three Jacobite rebellions and was burned by the infamous Black Colonel.
Community-Led Restoration: Since 2007, the castle has been run by local volunteers, making it a living example of heritage preservation.
Immersive Atmosphere: Rooms are staged as if the residents just stepped out—tables set, combs by mirrors, and even a sculpture from Treasure Island
Practical Information
Opening Times: April to October, typically Wednesday–Sunday, 10am–5pm (last entry 4:30pm). Open daily in July and August. Check for occasional closures due to events.
Location: Just off the A93, northeast of Braemar village. Accessible by car, bus (Stagecoach 201 from Aberdeen), walking, or cycling.
Parking: £4 pay-and-display, dawn to dusk. No overnight parking.
Accessibility: Improved paths from the car park to the castle and Fog House make the grounds more accessible.
Food & Drink: No catering on-site. Braemar village nearby offers cafés, shops, and takeaway options.
Booking: No need to pre-book for individual visits. Group visits (10+) must be booked in advance.
Tips for visitors
Bring Snacks: There are outdoor seating areas with lovely views—perfect for a picnic, since there’s no café on-site.
Time Your Visit: Allow 1–2 hours to explore comfortably.
Check Events: The castle occasionally closes for private events or local gatherings like the Braemar Highland Games.
Respect the Rules: Drone use is prohibited unless you’ve obtained permission.
Engage with Guides: Friendly volunteers are stationed throughout the castle and offer rich storytelling that brings history to life
Ferghas' Adventures
Ferghas the Highland coo arrived at Braemar Castle just as the morning mist curled around its turrets like a woolly scarf. The castle stood proud and mysterious, its stone walls whispering tales of Jacobite rebels and redcoat soldiers.
As Ferghas wandered through the grounds, he noticed something curious: a trail of thistle petals leading away from the old cannon. Intrigued, he followed the path through the trees until he reached the Fog House—a moss-covered shelter tucked into the woodland edge.
Inside, the air was cool and still. On a weathered bench lay a small wooden box, carved with the castle’s crest. Ferghas gently nudged it open. Inside was a smooth stone etched with ancient symbols and a folded parchment map. The map showed secret corners of the castle grounds—hidden staircases, forgotten wells, and a star marking the Fog House itself.
Ferghas tucked the map into his satchel and stepped back into the light. Though he hadn’t found gold or jewels, he’d uncovered something far more precious: a piece of Braemar’s story, waiting to be shared.
With a flick of his tail and a spring in his step, Ferghas set off to explore the rest of the castle, ready to uncover more secrets hidden in its walls and woods.
Grand visit was had at Braemar Castle, lots to see 🐮