Crathes Castle

Crathes Castle is a 16th century castle in Aberdeenshire featuring multiple turrets and Scottish architecture. The estate includes eight walled garden sections arranged in geometric patterns with herbs and flowers that change with the seasons.

The castle was built in 1553 by the Burnett family and served as their residence for four centuries. In 1951 it passed to the National Trust for Scotland.

Each room displays original painted wooden ceilings from the 16th century featuring detailed scenes with Scottish heraldry and literary characters. These ceiling paintings tell stories of Scotland's past and offer insight into the life of the family who lived here.

Access to the interior involves climbing stairs across multiple levels, so visitors with limited mobility should take this into account. The gardens are best explored during warmer months when plants are in full bloom.

The Green Lady's Room features carved figures and painted ceiling details from 1599, all preserved in their original colors. This ceiling is among the best-preserved examples of painted ceilings from that period in Scotland.

Location: Aberdeenshire

Location: Banchory-Ternan

Inception: 1553

Operator: National Trust for Scotland

Address: Crathes Castle, Banchory, Aberdeenshire, AB31 5QJ

Website: https://nts.org.uk/visit/places/crathes-castle

GPS coordinates: 57.06148,-2.43992

Latest update: December 7, 2025 09:24