Drumtochty Castle, Category A listed castle in Fordoun, Scotland.
Drumtochty Castle is a neo-gothic castle in Aberdeenshire featuring a square corner turret, crenellated parapets, and a semi-circular tower overlooking a valley. The structure sits approximately 3 kilometers northwest of Auchenblae near Drumtochty Forest.
James Gillespie Graham designed the castle in 1810, and John Smith of Aberdeen completed major additions between 1815 and 1816. During World War II, the Norwegian government purchased the building to establish a boarding school for children escaping German occupation.
The Norwegian government purchased the castle during World War II to establish a boarding school for children escaping German occupation.
The castle is best reached from Fordoun and sits in a hilly area with adequate parking nearby. Spring through early autumn offers the most accessible visiting conditions, as winter weather can affect access to this rural location.
The castle operated a preparatory school from 1947 to 1971, with notable writers Elspeth Barker and Allan Massie among its alumni. This former school chapter left visible marks on the building's layout and daily use of the space.
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