Corgarff Castle: A Remote Highland Fortress of Turbulent History

Explore Corgarff Castle, a rare star-walled fortress steeped in clan battles, Jacobite history, and Highland wilderness near Strathdon.

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Corgarff Castle, perched in the wild Aberdeenshire landscape near Strathdon, is a mid-16th-century tower house known for its unique star-shaped defensive wall. Originally a noble residence of the Forbes family, it later served as a military barracks to suppress Jacobite uprisings and whisky smuggling. Today, it stands restored amidst the Cairngorms National Park, offering visitors a glimpse into Scotland’s volatile past and stunning natural surroundings.

A brief summary to Corgarff Castle

8m, on the A939, W of, Strathdon, AB36 8YP, GB
+441975651460
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 3 out of 5

Local tips

Visit between April and September when the castle is open to the public; check for any short-notice closures due to weather or maintenance.
Wear sturdy footwear for the uneven terrain around the castle and be prepared for variable Highland weather.
The west pavilion is wheelchair accessible, but the tower house itself has limited mobility access.
Bring binoculars or a zoom lens to appreciate the surrounding wildlife and panoramic views of the Cairngorms.
No restroom facilities are available on-site, so plan accordingly before your visit.

Getting There

Car

Driving to Corgarff Castle via the A939 from Strathdon takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes. The route traverses rural Highland roads with scenic views but limited parking space at the site. Visitors should prepare for narrow roads and variable weather conditions. There is no parking fee.
Bus and Taxi

Public bus services to Strathdon are infrequent and seasonal; from Strathdon, local taxi services can take you to the castle in about 15 minutes. Taxi fares typically range from £15 to £25. Advance booking is recommended due to limited availability.
Walking

For adventurous walkers, hiking from nearby villages involves uneven terrain and moderate elevation changes. Expect a 1.5 to 2-hour trek through open moorland. Suitable only for those with good fitness and proper outdoor gear.

Corgarff Castle location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Windy Conditions
Cold Weather
Mild Temperatures
Snow

Discover more about Corgarff Castle

Origins and Early Turmoil

Corgarff Castle was constructed around 1550, likely commissioned by John Forbes of Towie, a powerful Aberdeenshire clan leader. The castle began as a typical Scottish tower house, featuring a vaulted hall, storage rooms, and private chambers, surrounded by a courtyard with essential buildings such as a bakehouse and brewhouse. Positioned strategically on the route between Deeside and Speyside, it guarded vital passes through the Highlands. However, the castle’s early years were marked by violence; in 1571, during a fierce feud between the Forbes and Gordon clans, Adam Gordon of Auchindoun attacked and burned the castle, killing Lady Forbes, her children, and others inside. This tragic event inspired the Scottish ballad 'Edom o Gordon.'

Military Significance and Jacobite Conflicts

Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, Corgarff Castle played a pivotal role in Scotland’s turbulent history. It was occupied and repaired by Royalist forces under the Marquis of Montrose in 1645 and suffered multiple burnings during the Jacobite risings of 1689 and 1715, as factions sought to deny its use to opposing forces. After the 1715 uprising, government troops burned it down again, and the Forbes estates were forfeited. By 1746, the castle was used by Jacobites as an arms store during their retreat, but government forces surprised them, reclaiming the castle shortly before the decisive Battle of Culloden.

Transformation into a Barracks and Unique Architecture

In 1748, the British government purchased and extensively refortified Corgarff Castle to serve as a barracks for Redcoat troops tasked with hunting Jacobite sympathisers and later suppressing illegal whisky distilling. The interior was gutted to add an extra timber floor, accommodating officers and up to 42 soldiers. The surrounding courtyard buildings were demolished and replaced by two single-storey pavilions, one housing a historic whisky still. Most notably, a rare star-shaped perimeter wall with musket loops was constructed, a design shared only with Braemar Castle nearby. This distinctive fortification was intended for musket defense rather than artillery, reflecting the military tactics of the time.

Natural Setting and Wildlife

Corgarff Castle is set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Cairngorms National Park, surrounded by open moorland and rolling hills. The remote location offers a tranquil atmosphere and opportunities to spot native wildlife such as roe deer, mountain hares that turn white in winter, and the melodic skylark. The castle’s isolated position on the A939 road contributes to its sense of solitude and connection to the wild Scottish Highlands.

Present-Day Visitor Experience

Today, Corgarff Castle is cared for by Historic Environment Scotland and is open to the public during the warmer months, typically from April to September. Visitors can explore the restored tower house, the star-shaped defensive walls, and the army pavilions. The west pavilion is wheelchair accessible, allowing broader access to the castle’s historical features. Although facilities are limited, with no on-site restrooms, the site offers informative storyboards that detail its rich history. The castle’s striking silhouette, especially when dusted with snow, is a favorite among photographers and history enthusiasts alike.

Legacy and Cultural Significance

Corgarff Castle embodies the layered history of the Scottish Highlands, from clan feuds and royal conflicts to military control and the fight against illicit whisky production. Its survival and restoration provide a tangible link to Scotland’s complex past, while its unique architectural features make it a rare example of 18th-century military design. The castle remains a symbol of resilience and adaptation, standing proudly in a landscape that continues to inspire awe and reflection.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk

34.8 km

Explore the evocative medieval ruins of Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk, a historic Scottish landmark steeped in centuries of religious and local heritage.

Rothes Castle

40.3 km

Explore the evocative ruins of Rothes Castle, a 13th-century fortress commanding the Spey Valley and steeped in Scottish medieval history.

Soldiers Head

44.4 km

Discover Soldiers Head near Inverness, a natural Highland landmark steeped in history and local legend, offering stunning views and cultural significance.

Airlie Monument

48.8 km

Historic Airlie Monument on Tulloch Hill offers breathtaking views and honors the 9th Earl of Airlie’s legacy in scenic Angus.

Scott Wilson Memorial

49.4 km

A powerful granite tribute to Antarctic explorers Captain Scott and Dr Edward Wilson, set in the peaceful hills of Glen Prosen near Kirriemuir.

Balquhain Stone Circle

50.3 km

Explore Balquhain Stone Circle, a rare Neolithic monument near Inverurie, revealing ancient ritual mysteries amidst Aberdeenshire’s serene landscape.

Edzell Castle and Garden

51.4 km

Explore the captivating Edzell Castle and Garden, a blend of rich history and stunning landscapes nestled in the heart of Scotland.

The Caterthuns

51.9 km

Uncover the ancient history and breathtaking views at The Caterthuns, Scotland's remarkable Iron Age hill forts near Brechin.

Asliesk Castle (remains)

53.1 km

Explore the ivy-clad ruins of Asliesk Castle, a 16th-century Scottish tower house steeped in history and legend near Elgin, Moray.

Lady Hill

54.2 km

Historic Lady Hill in Elgin features the towering Duke of Gordon Monument and ancient castle ruins with stunning panoramic views.

The Dandy Lion Statue

54.2 km

Discover the Dandy Lion Statue in Elgin: a whimsical sculpture that embodies the artistic spirit and charm of this historic town.

Elgin Museum

54.3 km

Immerse yourself in the fascinating history and culture of Moray at Elgin Museum, a gem of Scottish heritage.

Elgin Cathedral

54.4 km

Discover the beauty and history of Elgin Cathedral, a stunning Gothic landmark in the heart of Scotland's Moray region.

Biblical Garden Elgin

54.5 km

Explore the tranquil Biblical Garden Elgin, a unique destination blending nature and spirituality in the heart of Elgin, UK.

Drum Castle - Garden & Estate

54.6 km

Explore the historical charm and stunning gardens of Drum Castle, a captivating landmark in Banchory, perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Unmissable attractions to see

Balmoral Castle

13.7 km

Explore Balmoral Castle, the Scottish Highland home of the British Royal Family, where royal heritage meets breathtaking natural beauty.

Crathie, Suspension Bridge

14.5 km

Discover the stunning Crathie Suspension Bridge, a picturesque landmark over the River Dee, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Strathdon Ranch

17.2 km

Discover the serene beauty and historic charm of Strathdon Ranch, a Highland estate on the edge of the Cairngorms National Park.

Braemar Castle

19.0 km

Discover Braemar Castle, a historic 17th-century Highland fortress lovingly preserved by its community amidst the stunning Cairngorms landscape.

Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve

19.6 km

Discover Scotland’s enchanting Muir of Dinnet, where ancient geology meets tranquil woodlands and rich wildlife in a captivating natural mosaic.

Braemar Chocolate Shop

20.1 km

Discover handmade Scottish chocolates crafted with passion in the heart of Braemar village, Cairngorms National Park.

McLean Of Braemar

20.1 km

Discover authentic Scottish gifts and local crafts in the heart of Braemar’s scenic Royal Deeside at McLean Of Braemar.

Braemar Highland Games Centre

20.3 km

Explore Scotland’s Highland Games heritage and royal connections at the stunning Braemar Highland Games Centre in the Duke of Rothesay Pavilion.

Blairfindy Castle

20.7 km

Explore the evocative ruins of Blairfindy Castle, a 16th-century Highland tower house steeped in history and surrounded by stunning Glenlivet landscapes.

Kildrummy Castle

21.4 km

Explore Kildrummy Castle, a majestic 13th-century fortress steeped in Scottish history, from medieval sieges to Jacobite rebellions.

Drumin Castle

22.8 km

Explore the evocative ruins of Drumin Castle, a 15th-century tower house tied to Scotland’s fierce Wolf of Badenoch, set amid stunning Highland landscapes.

Tarland Tearooms

23.0 km

Cozy and affordable village tearoom offering fresh paninis, salads, and traditional fare in the heart of Tarland, Aberdeenshire.

Cairngorms National Park

23.5 km

Explore the UK’s largest national park, where rugged mountains, ancient forests, and rich Highland heritage create an unforgettable wilderness adventure.

Cairngorm Mountain

26.5 km

Scotland's premier mountain resort where winter skiing meets year-round Highland adventure in the heart of the Cairngorms.

Castle Roy

28.0 km

Discover Castle Roy, a 12th-century Highland fortress preserved for history, culture, and community events amid stunning Scottish landscapes.

Essential places to dine

The Clunie Dining Room

20.1 km

Elegant Scottish fine dining with wood-fired flavors and striking contemporary art in the heart of Braemar’s Cairngorms.

Kildrummy Inn

22.3 km

Luxurious Scottish country inn blending Victorian charm, gourmet dining, and warm hospitality in a tranquil Aberdeenshire setting.

Ptarmigan Restaurant

25.2 km

Dine at the UK’s highest restaurant with panoramic Highland views and hearty local fare atop Cairngorm Mountain.

Cairngorm Cafe

26.5 km

Cozy café nestled in Cairngorm Mountain ski area serving hearty seasonal food with stunning Highland views year-round.

Seven Stills French Restaurant and Malt Whisky Bar/Lounge

32.0 km

An intimate French bistro and whisky lounge in Dufftown blending classic cuisine with Speyside’s renowned malt heritage.

Seven Stills French Restaurant and Malt Whisky Bar/Lounge

Andersons Restaurant

33.0 km

Cozy and intimate dining in Boat of Garten, blending bistro charm with Scottish flavors for memorable family and special occasions.

The Mash Tun Hotel

34.2 km

Charming Aberlour hotel with cozy rooms, acclaimed whisky bar, and a celebrated restaurant showcasing Speyside’s rich heritage.

Coylumbridge Hotel

34.4 km

Family-friendly resort nestled in the Cairngorms with pools, adventure parks, and Highland charm for all ages.

Macduis Speyside Inn Catering Ltd

36.0 km

A welcoming Highland pub in Aviemore serving hearty comfort food with a famously dog-friendly atmosphere and attentive service.

Happy Haggis

36.0 km

Aviemore’s cherished family-run spot serving crispy, delicious fish and chips with warm, friendly service since 1974.

The Old Bridge Inn

36.0 km

A cozy Highland gastro pub on the River Spey, blending hearty local fare, live music, and warm hospitality in Aviemore.

The Winking Owl, Craft Ale Pub & Bar

36.1 km

Discover the charm of The Winking Owl in Aviemore – your go-to spot for craft ales and delightful cuisine amidst stunning Scottish landscapes.

The Boathouse Restaurant Loch Insh

41.7 km

Charming Highland dining with stunning Loch Insh views and hearty Scottish fare at the heart of the Cairngorms outdoor centre.

The Cowshed Restaurant & Takeaway

45.8 km

A family-owned haven in Aberdeenshire serving simple, seasonal Scottish cuisine with a popular fresh fish takeaway.

Banchory Lodge Hotel

46.6 km

A charming 4-star riverside hotel in Royal Deeside offering comfort, local cuisine, and scenic Scottish landscapes.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Whisky Castle & Highland Market

13.1 km

Discover a century-old whisky treasure trove in Tomintoul, where Scotland’s finest malts meet warm Highland hospitality.

Balmoral Castle Shop

13.5 km

Discover exquisite royal souvenirs and handcrafted treasures at Balmoral Castle Shop, set in a charming Victorian stable in scenic Aberdeenshire.

The Horn Shop

20.1 km

Discover authentic Scottish horn crafts and souvenirs in the heart of Braemar’s charming Highland village.

The Highlander

20.1 km

Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and local crafts at The Highlander in Braemar - a must-visit shop for every traveler.

Braes O'Mar Gift Shop

20.1 km

Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Braemar’s scenic Highlands village.

The Shop At The Top

25.2 km

Discover unique Highland crafts and outdoor gear at The Shop At The Top, a charming Aviemore destination nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms.

Balliefurth Farm Shop

27.9 km

Highland heritage meets artisan quality in Scotland's Cairngorms—a family-run butcher and farm shop since 1948.

Ewe & Me

29.2 km

Discover unique Highland gifts and artisan crafts at Ewe & Me, Grantown-on-Spey’s award-winning independent gift shop.

Alfies antiques and collectibles

34.2 km

Explore a treasure trove of vintage delights at Alfies Antiques and Collectibles in Aberlour – a must-visit for antique enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Treasures

34.8 km

Discover exquisite natural stones and handcrafted jewellery in the charming village of Kincardine O'Neil at Treasures rock shop.

Deeside Antiques Emporium

35.0 km

Discover timeless antiques and rich heritage in the heart of Kincardine O'Neil, the oldest village in Aberdeenshire.

Speyside Cooperage Shop

35.7 km

Discover the ancient craft of coopering and find unique whisky-themed gifts at Speyside Cooperage Shop in the heart of Scotland’s whisky country.

Avi Boutique

36.0 km

Discover stylish local and branded fashion at Avi Boutique, Aviemore’s premier clothing shop in the scenic Cairngorms.

Nevisport

36.0 km

Your expert outfitter for top-quality outdoor gear and advice in the heart of Cairngorm National Park, Aviemore.

Mountain Warehouse

36.0 km

Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Aviemore for quality gear and expert advice in the heart of the Highlands.

A cosy Highland pub and guesthouse in Aviemore offering hearty food, local drinks, and comfortable rooms in a warm, welcoming setting.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

The Vault

36.0 km

Experience Aviemore’s vibrant nightlife at The Vault, a lively nightclub blending modern beats with Highland charm every weekend.

Seaforth Club

54.1 km

A welcoming members-only social club in Elgin offering great atmosphere, steak suppers, and a true sense of community spirit.

Zed Bar

54.2 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zed Bar in Elgin, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await every visitor.

Joannas Nightclub

54.3 km

Lively and casual nightclub in Elgin’s town centre, offering weekend late-night music, dancing, and social vibes in a friendly local setting.

Moray Jazz Club

54.6 km

Discover the vibrant live music scene at Moray Jazz Club in Elgin, where talented musicians create unforgettable performances in an intimate setting.

Purple Nightclub

59.3 km

Experience Buckie’s vibrant nightlife at Purple Nightclub, the ultimate destination for dancing, live music, and unforgettable late-night events.

Xplosive Discos

60.9 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.

Royal Night Club

61.3 km

Vibrant nightlife and lively DJ nights in the heart of Forfar’s historic Royal Hotel, complete with rooftop terrace and buzzing bar scene.

The Gig

64.0 km

Experience Blairgowrie’s vibrant nightlife at The Gig, a welcoming and affordable nightclub in the heart of this scenic Scottish town.

Babylon

67.7 km

Discover the pulse of Aberdeen's nightlife at Babylon, a premier nightclub and bar offering unforgettable nights filled with music and fun.

491 Union Street

67.8 km

Dive into Aberdeen's electric nightlife at this top-of-Union-Street hotspot, where killer beats, craft drinks, and epic events light up weekends until dawn.

Venga

67.8 km

Dive into Aberdeen's electric nightlife at Venga, where retro beats, themed nights, and cocktails fuel unforgettable dances until dawn on vibrant Chapel Street.

Club Tropicana & Venga

67.8 km

Compact retro nightclub on Chapel Street with neon kitsch, themed nights and a late‑night dancefloor for nostalgic hits and loud, energetic DJ sets.

Dusk Cocktail Bar

68.0 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aberdeen at Dusk Cocktail Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a stylish atmosphere.

Prohibition

68.0 km

Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Prohibition, a lively nightclub with pulsating music, dynamic events, and a welcoming party atmosphere.

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Corgarff Castle: A Remote Highland Fortress of Turbulent History

A brief summary to Corgarff Castle

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Car

Bus and Taxi

Walking

Corgarff Castle location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Corgarff Castle

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Corgarff Castle

Origins and Early Turmoil

Military Significance and Jacobite Conflicts

Transformation into a Barracks and Unique Architecture

Natural Setting and Wildlife

Present-Day Visitor Experience

Legacy and Cultural Significance

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk

Rothes Castle

Soldiers Head

Airlie Monument

Scott Wilson Memorial

Balquhain Stone Circle

Edzell Castle and Garden

The Caterthuns

Asliesk Castle (remains)

Lady Hill

The Dandy Lion Statue

Elgin Museum

Elgin Cathedral

Biblical Garden Elgin

Drum Castle - Garden & Estate

Unmissable attractions to see

Balmoral Castle

Crathie, Suspension Bridge

Strathdon Ranch

Braemar Castle

Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve

Braemar Chocolate Shop

McLean Of Braemar

Braemar Highland Games Centre

Blairfindy Castle

Kildrummy Castle

Drumin Castle

Tarland Tearooms

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorm Mountain

Castle Roy

Essential places to dine

The Clunie Dining Room

Kildrummy Inn

Ptarmigan Restaurant

Cairngorm Cafe

Seven Stills French Restaurant and Malt Whisky Bar/Lounge

Andersons Restaurant

The Mash Tun Hotel

Coylumbridge Hotel

Macduis Speyside Inn Catering Ltd

Happy Haggis

The Old Bridge Inn

The Winking Owl, Craft Ale Pub & Bar

The Boathouse Restaurant Loch Insh

The Cowshed Restaurant & Takeaway

Banchory Lodge Hotel

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Whisky Castle & Highland Market

Balmoral Castle Shop

The Horn Shop

The Highlander

Braes O'Mar Gift Shop

The Shop At The Top

Balliefurth Farm Shop

Ewe & Me

Alfies antiques and collectibles

Treasures

Deeside Antiques Emporium