Castle Fraser
One of Scotland's largest Z-plan tower castles, a classic stop on the Castle Trail, with woodland walks on its estate.
Castle Fraser lies about 26 km west of Aberdeen, near Kemnay. It was built by the Fraser family between 1575 and 1636 and is one of the largest Z-plan (baronial) tower castles in Scotland. Inside you can visit the great hall, secret chambers, the library and family portraits. Climb to the top of the tower for views over the estate. The grounds include a walled garden, a children's nature play area and several woodland trails. Managed by the NTS, admission to the castle is about £13. Check the official website for the opening season; the estate is open year-round. The drive takes about 30 minutes. It is often combined with Craigievar Castle and Drum Castle as the western leg of the Castle Trail.
Opening hours
About April–October (check the official website); estate grounds year-round
Nearby sights
- Bennachie
- Crathes Castle
- Drum Castle
- Fyvie Castle
- Craigievar Castle
- Gordon Highlanders Museum
- Stonehaven
- St Machar's Cathedral