Scotland’s Castle Country
Mayen Estate is perfectly situated in the centre of Visit Scotland’s castle trail. Aberdeenshire, also known as ‘Scotland’s Castle Country’ is home to over 260 castles, stately homes and ruins scattered through its valleys.
With more castles per acre in Aberdeenshire than anywhere else in the UK, there is so much history to uncover right on our doorstep.
We’d like to mention a few of our favourite castles included in the route, but you can check out our interactive online map for a full list of places to visit and plan your ideal holiday from your base at Mayen:
1.Huntly Castle
With structures dating as far back as the 12th century and beautifully decorated inscribed stone friezes, Huntly Castle is a truly stunning time capsule. The castle features a beautiful trail along the River Deveron and loops around to take you back into Huntly Town Centre.
2. Duff House
Built in the 18th century, Duff House is a well preserved historic building both inside and out. Guided tours are available throughout the day, providing the perfect opportunity to observe the ancient artwork and interior décor. There are a range of pretty walks surrounding the house, as well as playing fields and a playpark.
3. Fyvie Castle
Fyvie Castle is for sure one of our favourite haunts and boasts priceless antiques, impressive Baronial architecture and a colourful history dating back over 800 years, with Mary Queen of Scots, Robert the Bruce and the fabled “Green Lady” among the many notable names to have graced the Baronial Fortress. Enjoy the beautiful walled garden and lake, then round off your trip with homemade delights in the Castle’s pantry.
Fyvie Castle
4. Craigievar Castle
Fairytale Craigievar Castle was built in 1626 and is often regarded as the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s Cinderella! Standing proudly in peaceful woodland grounds, Craigievar is decorated with brilliant artworks, medieval weaponry and interesting artefacts. And if the walls could talk, they would tell you all about its dark history of family feuds, murders and of course the fabled ghost of the castle’s fiddler.
5. Slains Castle
This world-famous ruin rests majestically on the edge of Cruden Bay's dramatic cliffs and was well known for hosting celebrities during its heyday. Most notably known as the birthplace of Bram Stoker’s Dracula character, more recently, the castle has also featured in the television show The Crown, standing in for Castle Mey.
6. Leith Hall
Leith Hall near Huntly has been a centrefold of historic Scottish events since 1650 and was home to the Leith-Hay family for ten generations. Guided tours of the property give an incredible insight into the military families’ history and decadent tastes, while the beautiful grounds boast one of the highest altitude gardens with views across Aberdeenshire’s rolling hills. Make sure to ask your tour guide about Leith Hall’s bloody shared history with Mayen House!
7. Findlater Castle
Built in 1246, Findlater Castle lies ruined on a 50ft high cliff overlooking the Moray Firth between the fishing villages of Cullen and Portsoy and boasts ties to Mary Queen of Scots. The castle is a popular place to enjoy a coastal walk along the firth from Cullen, and you might even catch a glimpse of some dolphins along the way!
8. Castle Fraser
Towering over vast parks and woodlands, Castle Fraser is ideal for those who love history and nature, with a walled garden, herbaceous borders and wildlife teeming throughout the grounds. The castle itself dates back to 1540 and boasts panoramic views from atop the tower, a majestic grand hall, secret spy holes, hidden trapdoors and generations of priceless family heirlooms. Finish the tour with fresh produce from the garden in the Courtyard Tearoom.