Craigievar Castle: Scotland’s Pink Fairy-Tale Fortress
Discover the enchanting pink Scottish castle that inspired Disney’s Cinderella, with authentic Jacobean interiors and tranquil woodland grounds.
Nestled in the rolling hills of Aberdeenshire near Alford, Craigievar Castle is a stunning example of Scottish Baronial architecture, famed for its distinctive pink harled exterior and fairy-tale charm. Built around 1626 and preserved almost unchanged, it offers guided tours through its Jacobean interiors filled with original woodwork, ornate plaster ceilings, and historic portraits. The surrounding grounds feature woodland trails, a Victorian kitchen garden, and tranquil parkland perfect for picnics and nature walks.
A brief summary to Craigievar Castle
- Alford, Craigievar, AB33 8JF, GB
- +441339883635
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a spot on one of the limited guided tours, as advance booking is not available and tours fill quickly.
- Wear comfortable shoes for navigating narrow spiral staircases and exploring the extensive woodland trails around the castle.
- Photography is not permitted inside the castle to protect its delicate interiors, so bring your camera for the picturesque grounds instead.
- Visit in early summer to enjoy the bluebell carpets in the woodland and the fragrant Victorian kitchen garden.
- Members of the National Trust for Scotland enjoy free admission, so consider joining if you plan to visit multiple sites.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Aberdeen takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes via the A944 and A980 roads. Parking is available near the castle for a fee of £5. Note the south drive is private and inaccessible by vehicle.
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Bus
Local bus services from Aberdeen to Alford run several times daily, with a journey time of around 1 hour 15 minutes. From Alford, a taxi or a 30-minute walk on rural roads leads to the castle.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking to Craigievar Castle involves traversing uneven terrain and rural paths, taking approximately 30 to 45 minutes. This option is best suited for visitors with good mobility.
Craigievar Castle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Craigievar Castle
Architectural Elegance Rooted in History
Craigievar Castle stands as a quintessential Scottish Baronial tower house, completed circa 1626 by William Forbes. Its elegant pink harled exterior, often said to have inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle, rises gracefully from the Aberdeenshire landscape. The castle’s architecture combines defensive features with a domestic comfort that reflects its long history as a family home until the 1960s. The exterior remains virtually unchanged, preserving its historic silhouette with ornate turrets and a clean, simple lower tower.Intimate Interiors Preserved Through Time
Inside, visitors experience an authentic glimpse into 17th-century life, with original Jacobean woodwork, intricate plaster ceilings, and a collection of fine furniture including the famed Craigievar table. The Great Hall features rare wood paneling and original portraits by renowned artists such as Raeburn, complete with receipts signed by the painter himself. The castle’s rooms are lit naturally, as artificial lighting was never installed on the upper floors, preserving the atmosphere as it would have been centuries ago. Access is by guided tour only, with narrow spiral staircases connecting the five floors.Enchanting Grounds and Gardens
Surrounding the castle are extensive parklands open year-round from dawn to dusk. Visitors can explore two waymarked woodland trails that showcase the castle’s exterior from multiple angles amid bluebell carpets in early summer. The Victorian kitchen garden and a distinctive Scottish glen garden offer fragrant and sensory experiences. Wildlife such as red squirrels and pine martens can sometimes be spotted, adding to the natural charm of the estate.A Unique Visitor Experience
Tours are limited to small groups of up to 10 people and run approximately every 30 to 45 minutes during opening seasons, emphasizing an intimate and educational experience. Photography inside the castle is prohibited to protect its delicate interiors. The castle shop and kiosk enhance the visit, offering souvenirs inspired by the castle’s romantic character. Nearby holiday cottages within the grounds provide options for extended rural stays.Preservation and Community Stewardship
Craigievar Castle is cared for by the National Trust for Scotland, which recently undertook the 'Pink Again' project to revive the castle’s iconic pink harling and protect its fabric. Membership to the Trust grants free entry to this and other historic sites, supporting ongoing conservation efforts. The castle’s tranquil setting and well-preserved state make it a treasured cultural heritage site and a rare window into Scotland’s architectural and familial history.Practical Information for Visitors
The castle operates seasonally with guided tours from late spring through early autumn. The grounds remain open all year. Accessibility is limited due to steep spiral staircases and no wheelchair access inside. Parking is available for a fee, and pets are welcome in the grounds. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, as tours fill quickly and advance booking is not possible.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk
10.1 km
Explore the evocative medieval ruins of Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk, a historic Scottish landmark steeped in centuries of religious and local heritage.
Balquhain Stone Circle
22.2 km
Explore Balquhain Stone Circle, a rare Neolithic monument near Inverurie, revealing ancient ritual mysteries amidst Aberdeenshire’s serene landscape.
Keith's Tower
25.7 km
Discover Keith's Tower near Banchory, a striking 19th-century castellated landmark steeped in Scottish heritage and scenic charm.
Barra Hill
28.5 km
Explore Barra Hill near Inverurie, an ancient hillfort and historic battlefield offering panoramic views and a deep connection to Scotland’s past.
Dyce Standing Stones
29.4 km
Mysterious Pictish stones bridging pagan and Christian worlds, carved over 1,400 years ago.
Blairs Museum
32.7 km
Explore Scotland’s Catholic heritage through centuries-old artifacts at Blairs Museum near Aberdeen, a unique cultural and spiritual treasure.
Stone 45
32.7 km
A historical landmark preserving Aberdeen's heritage in the heart of Bucksburn.
Piper Alpha Memorial Garden
32.7 km
A solemn bronze memorial honoring 167 lives lost in the world's deadliest offshore oil disaster.
Workers' Memorial
34.3 km
A solemn granite obelisk in peaceful Persley Walled Garden, honoring Aberdeen’s industrial workers who lost their lives.
Boswell's Monument
34.4 km
Historic hilltop monument offering panoramic Aberdeenshire views and local heritage significance.
Queen Victoria Statue
35.8 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
Edward VIII Post Box
36.0 km
Discover a rare Edward VIII post box in Aberdeen, a unique relic from the brief 1936 reign of a king who changed British history.
Rosemount Market
36.2 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
36.3 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Rosemount Palace
36.6 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Unmissable attractions to see
Peel of Lumphanan
5.9 km
Explore the evocative 13th-century Peel of Lumphanan, a rare earthwork castle with historic ties to King Macbeth and Scottish medieval heritage.
Everlongart Studio & Gift Shop
6.5 km
Discover original Scottish art and handcrafted gifts in a welcoming studio nestled in Alford’s charming Main Street.
Grampian Transport Museum
6.6 km
Explore Scotland’s rich motoring past at Grampian Transport Museum, a family-friendly seasonal attraction in scenic Aberdeenshire.
Tarland Tearooms
9.9 km
Cozy and affordable village tearoom offering fresh paninis, salads, and traditional fare in the heart of Tarland, Aberdeenshire.
Kincardine
10.0 km
Experience Victorian grandeur and serene Scottish landscapes at Kincardine Castle, a majestic private estate in Royal Deeside.
The Old Smiddy
10.0 km
Step into The Old Smiddy, a historic blacksmith’s workshop turned treasure trove of antiques and collectibles in scenic Kincardine O'Neil.
Kincardine O'Neil Old Parish Church
10.2 km
Explore the evocative 14th-century ruins of Kincardine O'Neil Old Parish Church and its medieval hospital, a window into Scotland’s rich spiritual and charitable past.
The Boat Inn
12.2 km
Cozy British inn and pub by the River Dee in Aboyne, offering stylish rooms, hearty local cuisine, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Kildrummy Castle
13.1 km
Explore Kildrummy Castle, a majestic 13th-century fortress steeped in Scottish history, from medieval sieges to Jacobite rebellions.
Strathdon Ranch
15.4 km
Discover the serene beauty and historic charm of Strathdon Ranch, a Highland estate on the edge of the Cairngorms National Park.
Castle Fraser, Garden & Estate
15.8 km
Explore one of Scotland’s grandest tower houses with secret staircases, vibrant gardens, and scenic woodland trails in Aberdeenshire.
Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve
16.9 km
Discover Scotland’s enchanting Muir of Dinnet, where ancient geology meets tranquil woodlands and rich wildlife in a captivating natural mosaic.
Aberdeenshire Highland Beef
18.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish Highland cattle farming, premium beef, and immersive farm tours in the heart of Aberdeenshire countryside.
Dunnydeer Castle
19.2 km
Explore Dunnydeer Castle, a historic site in Insch, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Scotland's medieval past amidst beautiful natural landscapes.
Bridge of Feugh
19.8 km
A historic stone bridge over the Water of Feugh, offering front-row views of the dramatic Falls of Feugh and the famous salmon leap in Royal Deeside.
Essential places to dine
Kildrummy Inn
12.9 km
Luxurious Scottish country inn blending Victorian charm, gourmet dining, and warm hospitality in a tranquil Aberdeenshire setting.
The Cowshed Restaurant & Takeaway
18.0 km
A family-owned haven in Aberdeenshire serving simple, seasonal Scottish cuisine with a popular fresh fish takeaway.
Banchory Lodge Hotel
19.5 km
A charming 4-star riverside hotel in Royal Deeside offering comfort, local cuisine, and scenic Scottish landscapes.
Restaurant at The Lodge
19.5 km
Elegant riverside dining at Banchory Lodge Hotel, blending local flavors with historic Scottish charm and scenic Dee River views.
Scott Skinner's Restaurant & Bar
19.5 km
A charming family-run pub and restaurant in Banchory offering hearty Scottish fare and warm hospitality in a cosy, welcoming setting.
The Falls of Feugh Restaurant
19.8 km
Experience award-winning Scottish cuisine with stunning waterfall views on Royal Deeside’s scenic River Feugh.
The Garlogie Inn
22.2 km
Discover family-friendly dining at The Garlogie Inn in Westhill, where delicious meals meet warm hospitality in a cozy pub setting.
The Montgomerie Restaurant
22.7 km
A tranquil golf club restaurant in Inverurie serving excellent British cuisine with scenic course views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Fennel Restaurant
24.0 km
Modern European dining with fresh local ingredients in a relaxed, stylish setting at Inverurie’s Fennel Restaurant.
Shepherds Rest - Pub & Grill
26.7 km
A welcoming Westhill pub where rustic charm meets expert flame-grilled cooking in a family-friendly setting.
Luigi's
26.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy bar vibes at Luigi's, Westhill’s beloved spot for traditional pasta, pizza, and desserts.
Borsalino
28.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist in the warm, inviting atmosphere of Borsalino, Peterculter’s culinary gem.
The Himalayas Restaurant
28.7 km
Authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors served with warm hospitality in the heart of Peterculter, Aberdeen.
The Ploughman
29.1 km
A traditional Scottish pub and restaurant in Peterculter serving hearty local dishes with warm hospitality and a rich drinks selection.
1236 Cave Bar at Meldrum House
31.4 km
Historic 800-year-old stone bar with award-winning whisky and casual Scottish dining at Meldrum House Country Hotel.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Treasures
10.1 km
Discover exquisite natural stones and handcrafted jewellery in the charming village of Kincardine O'Neil at Treasures rock shop.
Deeside Antiques Emporium
10.3 km
Discover timeless antiques and rich heritage in the heart of Kincardine O'Neil, the oldest village in Aberdeenshire.
Treehouse
13.3 km
Discover unique gifts, home furnishings, and a cozy café experience in the charming Treehouse of Midmar near Inverurie.
Geek Bothy Ltd
17.7 km
Award-winning gift shop celebrating local makers, quirky treasures, and creative community in rural Aberdeenshire.
Copper & Grey
18.7 km
Discover unique gifts and colorful treasures at Copper & Grey, Banchory’s beloved family-run boutique on High Street.
Hush Living
19.0 km
Discover unique homeware and gifts in the charming independent boutique of Hush Living, nestled in the heart of Banchory.
Hidden Scotland Shop
22.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and handmade treasures in a charming, character-filled shop nestled in Milton of Crathes near Banchory.
Ethical Gift Shop & Refillery
30.6 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and eco-friendly refills at Huntly’s vibrant Ethical Gift Shop & Refillery.
Sonya Angus: The Unique Boutique
33.4 km
Discover stylish gifts, rustic furniture, and fashion accessories in a warm, community-focused boutique nestled in Cults’ charming Courtyard.
Balmoral Castle Shop
34.1 km
Discover exquisite royal souvenirs and handcrafted treasures at Balmoral Castle Shop, set in a charming Victorian stable in scenic Aberdeenshire.
Joli Gifts
34.6 km
A cozy independent gift shop in Aberdeen filled with handmade treasures, local art, and thoughtful Scottish souvenirs.
Gifted
34.8 km
Discover unique and locally inspired gifts at Gifted, Aberdeen’s boutique treasure trove on Countesswells Road.
The Stock Shop Ltd.
35.1 km
Discover stylish clothing at The Stock Shop Ltd. in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, where fashion meets convenience.
Made by Mums with Love
35.3 km
Discover heartfelt handmade gifts crafted by mums, supporting families through creativity and community in Aberdeen.
The Owl at Number Two
35.9 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and local artistry in a warm, inviting boutique shop on Mid Stocket Road, Aberdeen.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Steading Bar
20.4 km
Cozy Highland bar with a superb whisky selection and warm hospitality nestled in Strathdon’s scenic Lonach Hotel.
Black's Bar
28.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and lively village pub charm at Black's Bar in Peterculter, Aberdeen.
The Old Bank Bar Ltd
28.4 km
A charming former bank turned cozy bar and cafe, blending historic character with friendly service and hearty meals in Peterculter.
The Distilling House
31.1 km
A welcoming airport pub celebrating Scottish whisky heritage with classic food, craft beers, and expert spirit knowledge.
Spider's Web
31.9 km
A cozy and friendly pub in Dyce offering hearty meals, quality drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere near Dyce railway station.
The Staging Post
33.0 km
A friendly and lively local pub in Bucksburn with great drinks, sports, and a family-friendly beer garden.
Croft & Cairns
34.5 km
A friendly and welcoming bar and restaurant in Aberdeen offering generous scratch-made meals and a versatile function room in a quiet, convenient setting.
Murdos Bar
34.7 km
A vibrant community pub in Aberdeen offering great food, live sports on multiple screens, a welcoming atmosphere, and a spacious beer garden.
Mains of Scotstown
36.0 km
A welcoming British pub in Aberdeen offering classic dishes, craft drinks, live music, and a lively beer garden atmosphere.
Drumlithie Inn
36.1 km
A cozy, lively pub in Drumlithie offering hearty homemade food, warm hospitality, and vibrant entertainment in a beautifully updated setting.
The Queen Vic
36.3 km
Aberdeen's hometown pub since 1996: pints, sports, and community spirit in cozy Rosemount.
Brig O Dee Bar
36.4 km
Traditional Aberdeen pub with cozy charm, local craft beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere on Holburn Street.
Abergeldie Bar
36.6 km
Abergeldie Bar blends cozy charm and vibrant nightlife in Aberdeen’s city centre with quality drinks and welcoming vibes.
Holburn Bar
36.7 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Aberdeen offering great food, drinks, and entertainment for locals and visitors alike.
College Bar
36.7 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant sports and cocktail bar with live music, state-of-the-art viewing, and versatile event spaces in a historic granite building.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Babylon
36.7 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
36.8 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
36.8 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
36.8 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.
Number 7 Club
37.2 km
Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.
Exodus
37.2 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
The Underground Klub
37.3 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
AURA Nightclub Aberdeen
37.3 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and nostalgic disco vibes at Aura Nightclub, the city’s premier venue for dynamic music and festive parties.
Private Eyes
37.3 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, a stylish nightclub offering lively music, adult entertainment, and a welcoming city-center atmosphere.
The Mask Club
37.4 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
The Tunnels
37.5 km
Dive into Aberdeen’s underground nightlife at The Tunnels, where pulsating beats and intimate vibes create unforgettable nights.
CHEERZ
37.5 km
Aberdeen's iconic LGBT bar and nightclub: dance, drink, and connect in a welcoming Exchange Street haven open late into the night.
Elsa's Bar
45.2 km
Discover Elsa's Bar in Braemar, a cocktail oasis offering exquisite drinks and a warm, inviting atmosphere for every traveler.
Bertie's Bar
45.3 km
Experience the charm of Scottish hospitality at Bertie's Bar in Braemar, where exquisite cocktails meet a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Utopia Nightclub Montrose
54.0 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly
