The North-east is famed for many things, not least our stunning collection of castles. From the splendour of Balmoral to the pink hue of Craigievar, we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to visiting a tremendous slice of history.
We’re homing in on the lesser-known sites, arguably more special for the fact they tend to shirk the limelight in favour of quiet contemplation within their ancient walls. Escape the crowds and head to beautiful ruins, which will make you view the North-east in a whole new light.
First up we have Ellon Castle Gardens, so aptly named as the grounds are home to what was once the magnificent Ellon Castle. The passing of time makes the ruins even more romantic and they date back to the 15th century.
The grounds have been lovingly restored by a tireless team of volunteers and are home to a unique collection of ancient English Yew trees thought to be at least 500 years old. A secret passage is said to exist from the castle down to the river Ythan and may have been used for smuggling brandy. The fascinating history of this site holds much of the allure, and tales from hundreds of years ago continue to be uncovered by a dedicated team. To gaze up at the weathered branches of 19 Yew trees, some of which could date back to medieval times is rather remarkable. Wander around the gardens in gentle contemplation and soak up the magic of this place. Do check ahead via the Facebook page for seasonal opening times.
Not too far away you can find Tolquhon Castle, parts of which were commissioned by Sir William Forbes in 1584. The remains of the impressive residence still stand today, and this unsung gem is well worth a visit. The imposing gatehouse will capture your imagination, as will the winding staircases and quirky hiding place for valuables.
Flit across to Kemnay and explore the beautiful ruins of Fetternear Palace, also known as The Bishop’s Palace. Nature has taken over much of this sprawling medieval ruin, but parts of the original structure still stand. The interwoven stories of Fetternear add to its rustic magic; it has links to the Leslie clan and served as a palace to the medieval bishops of Aberdeen. A fire in 1919 saw the story of Fetternear come to an abrupt close after centuries of remodelling. The dramatic frontage remains proud in the sprawling Aberdeenshire countryside, a determined nod to all that once was.
Whilst your in the area, the gentle ruins of St Ninian’s Chapel are well worth a visit. What remains of the chapel stands on the foundations of previous buildings, including an ancient church. Many of the gravestones are unfortunately too weathered to be legible, but this quiet spot retains a sense of peaceful solitude. It stands as just one puzzle piece in the story of Fetternear over the passing centuries.
Our final hidden gem requires a tad more imagination, for a dishevelled rocky pile is all that remains of Old Slains Castle. Not to be confused with New Slains Castle, we’re firmly eschewing Dracula for this understated structure on the Collieston coastline.
If only crumbling walls could talk, Old Slains Castle has a tumultuous past to say the least. Originally built in the 13th century, it had a front row seat to feuding earls and religious rebellions before it was largely blown up in 1594. All that remains of the five storey building is two sections of wall, you can still envisage how previous inhabitants would once have watched the elements roll in across the unforgiving sea.
