Top 3 Castles around North Kincardine

For breathtaking scenery, Dunnottar Castle is unparalleled. Perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, its ruins provide an incredibly immersive historical experience with stunning vistas. There are also specific viewpoints like View of Dunnottar Castle that offer fantastic frontal perspectives of the castle.

Yes, several castles in the region are great for families. Crathes Castle & Gardens offers beautiful gardens, a tearoom, and its grounds host a weekly Parkrun. Drum Castle, Garden and Estate also has extensive grounds and woodland trails that are free to access, making it ideal for a family outing.

North Kincardine's castles offer a rich tapestry of Scottish history. Drum Castle, for instance, has a tower dating back to 1323, granted by Robert the Bruce, and a library with 4,000 books. Dunnottar Castle has evidence of use for over 5,000 years, with its stone buildings from the late 1200s. The ruined Kincardine Castle near Fettercairn was once a significant royal residence, even hosting King William I.

The warmer months, typically spring through early autumn (April to October), are generally best for visiting, offering pleasant weather for exploring grounds and enjoying views. However, Dunnottar Castle is open daily in summer from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with varying winter hours. Winter visits can offer a dramatic, atmospheric experience, especially at coastal castles like Dunnottar, but be prepared for colder weather and potentially shorter opening times.

Absolutely. The area around North Kincardine offers excellent walking opportunities. A hiking trail provides an alternative perspective of Dunnottar Castle, though sturdy shoes and long trousers are recommended due to potentially overgrown paths. The grounds of Drum Castle, Garden and Estate and Crathes Castle & Gardens also feature woodland trails. For more extensive hiking options in the region, explore the routes in our guide to Hiking around North Kincardine.

Crathes Castle & Gardens has a nice tearoom on-site, perfect for refreshments. Many castles, especially those managed by organizations like the National Trust for Scotland (which includes Crathes and Drum), typically offer visitor facilities such as restrooms and gift shops. It's always a good idea to check the specific castle's website for the most up-to-date information on facilities before your visit.

Yes, several castles are renowned for their gardens. Drum Castle boasts a beautiful Garden of Historic Roses, divided into quadrants showcasing rose cultivation from the 17th to the 20th century. Crathes Castle & Gardens is also famous for its magnificent gardens. Additionally, the current Kincardine Castle (a private home) features extensive lawns, a woodland garden, and a superb walled garden, with the River Dee running through its estate.

While not a 'hidden gem' in the traditional sense of being perfectly preserved, the ruined Kincardine Castle near Fettercairn offers a glimpse into a significant royal past. It was a 13th-century royal residence that gave its name to the old county of Kincardineshire. Though largely a pile of masonry today, its historical importance is considerable, and it can be accessed on foot for those interested in exploring deeper history.

Given the often exposed locations and potential for walking, comfortable, sturdy footwear is highly recommended, especially for sites like Dunnottar Castle where you'll encounter steps and hiking trails. Layers of clothing are advisable, as Scottish weather can be unpredictable, even in summer. A waterproof jacket is always a good idea.

Beyond castle exploration, North Kincardine offers a variety of outdoor pursuits. You can find numerous routes for cycling, including traffic-free options and road cycling, as well as more hiking trails. For detailed information and route suggestions, check out our guides for Traffic-free bike rides around North Kincardine, Hiking around North Kincardine, and Road Cycling Routes around North Kincardine.

The time needed can vary depending on the castle and your interest level. For a comprehensive visit to a larger site like Dunnottar Castle, including exploring the ruins and enjoying the views, you might want to allocate 2-3 hours. For castles with extensive gardens and estates like Drum Castle or Crathes Castle & Gardens, you could easily spend half a day or more, especially if you plan to walk the grounds or enjoy a meal at a tearoom.