Corgarff Castle

Corgarff Castle is a fortress in Aberdeenshire featuring thick stone walls with a distinctive round tower at its center and an eight-pointed star-shaped defensive wall surrounding the structure. The outer fortifications were added as military alterations during the eighteenth century to strengthen its defensive capabilities.

The castle was built in 1530 by the Elphinstone family as a residential stronghold for local nobles. After the Jacobite Rising of 1745, government forces seized it and converted it into a garrison to suppress illegal whisky production in the region.

The castle served as a stronghold that represented authority over the surrounding Highlands, making it a focal point for local conflicts and disputes. Visitors can observe how its prominent position on the hilltop made it impossible to ignore for anyone traveling through the valley.

The castle is typically open during the warmer months, displaying military artifacts and historical information throughout the interior. Wear sturdy footwear since the pathways around the fortress can be uneven and steep in places.

The fortress was painted with white exterior walls during the eighteenth century, making it visible from considerable distances across the moorland for surveillance purposes. This striking pale color set it apart from other military installations of the era.

Location: Aberdeenshire

Location: Strathdon

Operator: Historic Scotland

Website: https://historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/corgarff-castle

GPS coordinates: 57.16280,-3.23420

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:43