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Old Slains Castle: Ruined Fortress of Scottish History and Gothic Legend

Explore the haunting ruins of Old Slains Castle, a 13th-century fortress steeped in history and the Gothic inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

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Old Slains Castle, near Collieston in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, is a dramatic 13th-century ruined fortress perched on cliffs overlooking the North Sea. Partly destroyed in 1594 by order of King James VI due to its owner's role in a Catholic rebellion, the castle is now a haunting ruin with towering walls and a rich history. It is famed for inspiring Bram Stoker’s Dracula and offers visitors a glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent past amid rugged coastal scenery.

A brief summary to Old Slains Castle (Not Dracula castle)

  • Ellon, Collieston, AB41 8ST, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Exercise caution near cliff edges and unstable ruins; stay on marked paths for safety.
  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the dramatic coastal views and castle remains.
  • Bring sturdy footwear suitable for uneven terrain and overgrown paths.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as Cruden Bay and New Slains Castle for a fuller historical experience.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take the local bus service from Aberdeen to Ellon, which runs approximately every 30-60 minutes. From Ellon, a taxi or local shuttle can take you to Collieston near Old Slains Castle in about 15 minutes. Bus fares typically range from £5 to £8 one way.

  • Car

    Driving from Aberdeen to Old Slains Castle takes around 40-50 minutes via A90 and local roads. Parking is available near Collieston village, but spaces are limited. The final approach involves walking on uneven terrain, so suitable footwear is recommended.

  • Walking

    For active visitors, a scenic 1.5-hour walk from Cruden Bay to Old Slains Castle follows coastal paths offering stunning sea views. The terrain includes some uneven and overgrown sections, so moderate fitness and caution are advised.

Old Slains Castle (Not Dracula castle) location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Medieval Origins and Turbulent History

Old Slains Castle was originally constructed in the 13th century as a stronghold for the Comyn family, Earls of Buchan. After their forfeiture in the 14th century, Robert the Bruce granted the castle to Sir Gilbert Hay, establishing the Hay family’s long association with the site. The castle gained notoriety in the late 16th century when Francis Hay, 9th Earl of Erroll, participated in a Catholic rebellion against King James VI. In response, the king ordered the castle’s demolition in 1594, using gunpowder and cannon to partially destroy it. Despite this, two walls, each about 25 meters high, survived the blast, standing as silent witnesses to the castle’s violent past.

Architectural Features and Ruinous State

Originally a five-storey oblong keep, Old Slains Castle had defensive walls added in the early 1500s to protect the landward side. Today, only fragments remain, including towering walls and a maze of passageways and smaller rooms that hint at its once formidable structure. The south-facing wall partially collapsed in 1979, sending rubble onto the adjacent road. Unlike many well-preserved Scottish castles, Old Slains has been largely left to nature’s reclamation, resulting in an atmospheric, overgrown ruin that invites exploration but demands caution, especially near the cliff edges.

Legacy and Literary Inspiration

Though the castle was abandoned after its destruction, its dramatic coastal setting and Gothic silhouette inspired Bram Stoker, who holidayed nearby, to envision the eerie castle of Count Dracula. The castle’s rugged cliffs and haunting remains evoke the dark romanticism that permeates Stoker’s novel. Beyond literature, Old Slains Castle is a tangible relic of Scotland’s feudal conflicts and religious strife, reflecting the power struggles of the era.

Modern-Day Experience and Surroundings

Visitors today encounter a site rich in history but wild in appearance. The ruins sit precariously close to steep cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the North Sea. Nearby, an 18th-century fishing cottage and a 1950s house built within the ruins add layers to the site’s story. Archaeological excavations have taken place intermittently, revealing more about the castle’s past. The site is designated as a scheduled ancient monument, emphasizing its cultural and historical importance.

Safety and Preservation Considerations

Due to its exposed cliff-top location and unstable ruins, visitors are urged to remain on designated paths and avoid climbing on the walls. The castle’s partial collapse and natural decay mean that safety precautions are essential. While the site lacks extensive visitor facilities, the raw, untamed ambience offers a unique, immersive experience for those interested in history, architecture, and the macabre allure of Scottish castles.

Connection to the Hay Family and Regional Heritage

Old Slains Castle was a seat of the powerful Hay family, Earls of Erroll, who played a significant role in the region’s history. Their legacy includes not only the castle but also contributions to local parish churches and estates. The castle’s destruction marked a turning point, leading to the construction of New Slains Castle further northeast. The site remains a poignant symbol of the region’s feudal past and enduring cultural heritage.

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