Top 5 Castles around King Edward And Gamrie
Best castles around King Edward And Gamrie offer a journey through Scotland's rich past, primarily featuring historical ruins. This area in Aberdeenshire is characterized by its strategic locations overlooking burns and bays, reflecting centuries of defensive architecture. Visitors can explore sites ranging from 13th-century strongholds to 16th-century Z-plan tower houses. The landscape provides a backdrop for understanding medieval and Renaissance history.
Best castles around King Edward And Gamrie
- The most popular castles is Boyne Castle Ruins, a historical site…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Eden Castle Ruins
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Boyne Castle Ruins
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Delgatie Castle
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Duff House
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Banff Castle and Gardens
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Around 1320, the land was owned by Thomas Randolph, 1st Earl of Moray, but passed first to the Edmonstone family and then, by marriage, to the Ogilvies. Sir George Ogilvy of Dunlugas built the castle in the late 16th century for his bride, Mary Beaton, a companion of Mary, Queen of Scots. Occupation continued until after 1723. James VI of Scotland stayed at the castle in July 1589. His ambassadors Andrew Keith, Lord Dingwall, George Young, and John Skene brought him news from Denmark of the progress of his marriage negotiations and preparations of ships, jewels, and a silver coach for Anne of Denmark.
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The cakes were nice; the castle itself a major disappointment. Despite being there well before the castle's closing time of 4pm, I was not able to go on a tour of the house. Didn't see anything on the website nor in the building saying the last tour was at 3pm but when I attempted to buy a ticket for the house at 3:30pm, that's what the lady said. 🙄 Not only that but she wouldn't let me have a look around unaccompanied. Ironically, we were actually there at about 2:50pm but headed into the tea room first, unaware that there was any time constraint on visiting the rest of the place. 😐 If the communication hadn't been so piss-poor, I could have gone round the house first. 😳
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Built as a motte and bailey castle in the 12th century and held by the Comyns, Earl of Buchan. The castle was visited by King Edward I of England in 1296 and also in 1298 after defeating William Wallace at the Battle of Falkirk during the Wars of Scottish Independence. The castle was garrisoned with English troops until being captured by the Scots in 1310. It came into the possession of the Sharps, before being sold to Lord Ogilvy of Deskford in 1722. The castle then passed into the hands of the Russells. The old castle was demolished and a mansion house designed by architect John Adam was built in 1750. The remains of the old castle are a scheduled ancient monument.
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Duff House was intended as the chief seat of William Duff, Lord Braco (later 1st Earl Fife). The astute businessman and politician wanted not only to succeed, but also to be seen to succeed. Architect William Adam rose to the challenge by designing an ambitious baroque mansion. Work began in 1735, with elaborate carved details mostly produced in Adam’s own stoneworks in Queensferry. Work stopped in 1741, long before the interior was finished. Copies of Adam’s original plans for the house hang in the study. These show the grand curved east and west wings that were never built. A bitter five-year court case found in favour of Adam. But he died before he could recoup the debt owed to him. Lord Braco felt so let down by the result that he never slept a night in the house. It was left to his heirs to complete the work.
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A tour of DuffHouse is very interesting. There are interesting stories about the artwork and furniture contained within.
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The castle is fenced and considered dangerous, but is clearly visible from the road.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of castles can I expect to see around King Edward And Gamrie?
The region features a mix of historical ruins and more preserved castles. You'll find 13th-century strongholds like the Castle of King Edward, 16th-century Z-plan tower houses such as Eden Castle Ruins, and even sites with Iron Age origins like the Castle of Findon. Some, like Delgatie Castle, are well-preserved with visitor facilities.
Are there any family-friendly castles to visit in the area?
Yes, Delgatie Castle is noted as family-friendly and offers a cafe. Duff House and Banff Castle and Gardens are also listed as family-friendly historical sites.
What are some of the most historically significant castle ruins in King Edward And Gamrie?
The Castle of King Edward is a significant 13th-century ruin, known for its connections to the Comyns and Robert the Bruce. Castle of Findon is notable for its ancient origins, with vitrified stones suggesting an Iron Age fort predating the medieval castle.
Can I explore the ruins up close, or are they often fenced off?
Some ruins, like Eden Castle Ruins, are fenced off and considered structurally dangerous, but are clearly visible from the road. Others, such as Boyne Castle Ruins, can be accessed via faint paths, allowing for closer exploration of the impressive stonework.
Are there hiking or walking routes near these castles?
Yes, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking and walking routes around the castles. For detailed options, explore the Hiking around King Edward And Gamrie guide or the Easy hikes around King Edward And Gamrie guide.
What about cycling routes near the castles?
There are road cycling routes available in the area. For instance, you can find routes like the 'Eden Castle Ruins – Bridge of Alvah loop' or the 'Boyne Castle Ruins loop'. More details are available in the Road Cycling Routes around King Edward And Gamrie guide.
Are there any castles with visitor facilities like cafes?
Delgatie Castle features the 'Laird's Kitchen' Tearoom, which serves drinks, snacks, and light meals. It's open daily from 10:00 - 17:00.
What do visitors appreciate most about the castles in King Edward And Gamrie?
Visitors often highlight the historical significance and the scenic locations. For example, Boyne Castle Ruins is praised for its impressive stonework despite being hidden in the forest, and Eden Castle Ruins is appreciated for its unique Z-plan design visible from the road. The commanding position of the Castle of Findon overlooking Gamrie Bay also offers impressive views.
Is there parking available near the castle sites?
Parking can be limited, especially for more secluded ruins like Boyne Castle Ruins, where access is from country roads. For more established sites like Delgatie Castle, dedicated parking is generally available.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in this region?
The castles, many of which are ruins or open-air sites, are best enjoyed during milder weather. Spring and summer offer more pleasant conditions for exploring the grounds and nearby walking routes. However, some indoor attractions like Delgatie Castle are open for most of the year, from January to December.
Are there any castles that are considered 'hidden gems'?
Boyne Castle Ruins is often described as a 'superb castle in ruins' that is 'hidden in the forest' and 'well worth the detour', suggesting it's a less obvious but rewarding find for those willing to seek it out.
What is the historical significance of the Castle of King Edward?
The Castle of King Edward, a 13th-century ruin, was the caput of the feudal barony of King Edward. It was occupied by the Comyn, Earls of Buchan, and was likely slighted by Robert the Bruce in 1308 during the First War of Scottish Independence, making it a site of significant historical events.
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