Huntly Castle

Huntly Castle is a richly carved ruin in Aberdeenshire, once home to the powerful Gordon family. It offers layered history, dramatic architecture, and a peaceful riverside setting ideal for heritage lovers and photographers.

Highlights

• Seat of the Earls of Huntly: The castle was a stronghold of the influential Gordon family from the 15th to 17th centuries.

• Heraldic Stonework: Intricate carvings of coats of arms, Latin inscriptions, and Renaissance friezes decorate the façade—some of the finest in Scotland.

• Vaulted Dungeons & Spiral Staircases: Visitors can explore intact basement chambers and climb to upper levels for panoramic views.

• Historic Drama: Once called Strathbogie, the castle was renamed Huntly in 1506 and played roles in the Wars of Independence and royal politics.

Practical Information

• Location: Castle Avenue, Huntly, AB54 4SH. Follow signs from the town centre; access is via a narrow arch and park road.

• Opening Hours:

  • April–Sept: Daily, 10am–4:30pm

  • Oct–March: Sat–Wed, 10am–3pm

  • Closed: 25–26 Dec, 1–2 Jan

• Admission: £7.50 adult, £6 senior, £4.50 child, £21.50 family. (Prices 10/2025)

  • Free to H.E.S members

• Facilities:

  • Toilets : Onsite but check availability

  • Gift Shop

• Accessibility: Uneven terrain and many steps, but good views from the grounds.

  
  

Tips for visitors

• Best Time to Visit: Spring to autumn for full access and better weather.

• Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes—stone steps and grassy areas can be slippery.

• Watch Children as steep drops can be accessed

• Ask at the entrance for Kids Quiz Game

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Follow me to see where to go

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Ferghas' Adventures

Ferghas stepped through the arched gateway of Huntly Castle, boots echoing on the worn stone. The carvings above the door caught his eye—coats of arms, Latin words, and a lion that looked like it had secrets. “Fancy for a ruin,” he muttered, grinning.

He wandered the spiral stairs, tracing the grooves left by centuries of feet, and found himself in the old great hall. Light poured through broken windows, catching dust and memory. “The Gordons knew how to make an entrance,” he said, imagining a coo in velvet robes, tossing its head at a banquet.

Down in the dungeons, Ferghas paused. The air was cold, thick with stories. He didn’t speak—just listened. Somewhere above, a raven called, and he smiled. “Even ghosts need company,” he whispered, and climbed back into the light, leaving the past to its shadows and the castle to its quiet pride.

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Huntly Castle

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