Ravenscraig Castle

Ravenscraig Castle is an L-shaped tower house standing on the banks of the Ugie River near Peterhead. The walls measure between 9 to 11 feet thick (2.7 to 3.3 meters) and rise to 12 meters high, with the vaulted ground floor and main living apartments still visible in the ruins.

Construction began in 1491 following a royal license, establishing a fortified residence in the region. The castle gained royal significance when King James VI of Scotland visited in 1589.

The castle grounds inspired poet William Thom to write 'The Mitherless Bairn' after encountering a governess there in 1844.

The site is accessible and displays archaeological features including two stone-built dykes crossing the moat around the structure. Visitors should wear suitable footwear as the ruins require careful movement across uneven ground.

A notable architectural feature is the circular staircase tucked into the re-entrant angle of the L-shaped plan, which originally extended above the wall line into a distinctive turret. This clever design demonstrates how the builder maximized the space for added function and visual interest.

Location: Aberdeenshire

GPS coordinates: 57.52900,-1.84218

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:21