Kincardine Castle: Victorian Elegance in Royal Deeside
Experience Victorian grandeur and serene Scottish landscapes at Kincardine Castle, a majestic private estate in Royal Deeside.
Kincardine Castle is a grand Victorian country house nestled in 3,000 acres of scenic Royal Deeside, Scotland. Built in the 1890s as a family home and entertainment venue, it offers exclusive use for events, weddings, and holidays, accommodating up to 22 guests in 12 beautifully appointed bedrooms. Surrounded by exquisite walled and woodland gardens, with breathtaking views over the River Dee and the Cairngorms, it blends historic charm with modern comforts and sustainable estate management.
A brief summary to Kincardine
- Aboyne, Kincardine O'Neil, AB34 5AE, GB
- +441339884225
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Luxury
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book well in advance for exclusive use stays and special events, as the castle accommodates only private bookings.
- Explore the walled garden’s Laburnum Walk in late spring for spectacular floral displays.
- Arrange fishing or stalking activities through the estate to experience traditional Scottish country sports.
- Enjoy locally sourced meals prepared by private chefs using produce from the castle’s kitchen garden.
- Partial wheelchair access is available, but contact the venue ahead to discuss specific mobility needs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Aberdeen Airport to Kincardine Castle takes approximately 35 to 45 minutes via A93 and B976. Parking is available on the estate; however, the rural roads can be narrow, so cautious driving is advised.
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Taxi
Taxi services from Aberdeen Airport to Kincardine Castle typically take 35 to 50 minutes. Pre-booking is recommended due to limited local availability. Expect fares in the range of £50 to £70.
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Public Transport
Public buses connect Aberdeen city to Aboyne, approximately 7 km from Kincardine Castle, with travel times around 1.5 to 2 hours including transfers. From Aboyne, a taxi or arranged transfer is necessary to reach the castle.
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Walking
Walking from Aboyne to Kincardine Castle covers about 7 km along country roads and trails, taking roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. Terrain is rural and may be uneven; suitable footwear and daylight hours are recommended.
Kincardine location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Kincardine
A Victorian Masterpiece in the Heart of Royal Deeside
Kincardine Castle stands as a magnificent example of Victorian country house architecture, built in the 1890s to replace a more modest residence. This Arts & Crafts fantasy was designed to be both a family home and a grand venue for entertaining guests. Situated on an elevated site overlooking the River Dee, the castle commands spectacular panoramic views extending across Royal Deeside to the Cairngorm Mountains and Lochnagar. The estate spans 3,000 acres of diverse landscapes, including farmland, woodlands, and wildflower meadows.Exclusive Use Accommodation with Historic Charm
The castle offers exclusive use accommodation for up to 22 guests in twelve bedrooms, each uniquely furnished with family antiques and featuring ensuite or private bathrooms. The interiors blend comfort with grandeur, including an impressive Great Hall, Drawing Room, Dining Room, and a balcony with striking views. Guests enjoy modern amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi throughout, cosy fireplaces, and luxurious toiletries, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels like a home away from home.Enchanting Gardens and Estate Grounds
Surrounding the castle are beautifully maintained gardens that invite exploration. The walled garden features a famous Laburnum Walk and a kitchen garden supplying fresh produce for the castle’s private chef. The woodland garden boasts over 120 varieties of rhododendrons and azaleas, while expansive wildflower meadows add seasonal colour and attract diverse wildlife. The estate’s grounds also include multiple marquee sites, ideal for weddings and large events, with the River Dee’s banks designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for their rich natural habitat.A Hub for Celebrations and Corporate Retreats
Kincardine Castle is renowned as a venue for weddings, family celebrations, corporate events, and house parties. It offers a flexible and elegant setting for gatherings ranging from intimate ceremonies to grand occasions accommodating up to 60 seated guests inside and up to 500 in marquees on the lawn. The castle’s dedicated staff and private chefs tailor each event to guests’ needs, ensuring a unique and memorable experience in a stately Scottish home.Outdoor Activities and Sustainable Estate Management
Beyond the castle walls, the estate provides opportunities for country sports such as salmon and trout fishing along the River Dee, and stalking of roe deer across farmland and woodland. The estate practices regenerative farming and woodland management to enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact. Visitors can also arrange activities like distillery tours, whisky tastings, and local shopping excursions, enriching their stay with authentic Scottish experiences.Accessibility and Location
Located just 35 minutes from Aberdeen Airport, Kincardine Castle offers partial wheelchair access and is suitable for visitors with limited mobility in some areas. As a private family home and exclusive-use venue, visits are by prior arrangement only, ensuring privacy and personalized hospitality. The castle’s majestic setting and rich heritage make it a standout destination in Royal Deeside for those seeking history, luxury, and natural beauty.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk
1.0 km
Explore the evocative medieval ruins of Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk, a historic Scottish landmark steeped in centuries of religious and local heritage.
Keith's Tower
19.7 km
Discover Keith's Tower near Banchory, a striking 19th-century castellated landmark steeped in Scottish heritage and scenic charm.
Balquhain Stone Circle
27.4 km
Explore Balquhain Stone Circle, a rare Neolithic monument near Inverurie, revealing ancient ritual mysteries amidst Aberdeenshire’s serene landscape.
Blairs Museum
28.1 km
Explore Scotland’s Catholic heritage through centuries-old artifacts at Blairs Museum near Aberdeen, a unique cultural and spiritual treasure.
Robert Burns Family Memorial Cairn
28.5 km
Honoring Robert Burns’s ancestral roots in Stonehaven with a timeless stone memorial set in scenic Scottish countryside.
Boswell's Monument
28.8 km
Historic hilltop monument offering panoramic Aberdeenshire views and local heritage significance.
Dyce Standing Stones
28.9 km
Mysterious Pictish stones bridging pagan and Christian worlds, carved over 1,400 years ago.
Piper Alpha Memorial Garden
29.5 km
A solemn bronze memorial honoring 167 lives lost in the world's deadliest offshore oil disaster.
Stone 45
30.6 km
A historical landmark preserving Aberdeen's heritage in the heart of Bucksburn.
Workers' Memorial
32.2 km
A solemn granite obelisk in peaceful Persley Walled Garden, honoring Aberdeen’s industrial workers who lost their lives.
Barra Hill
32.5 km
Explore Barra Hill near Inverurie, an ancient hillfort and historic battlefield offering panoramic views and a deep connection to Scotland’s past.
Queen Victoria Statue
32.7 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
Edward VIII Post Box
32.9 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
33.3 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
33.6 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Unmissable attractions to see
Kincardine O'Neil Old Parish Church
1.0 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 Old Smiddy
1.1 km
Step into The Old Smiddy, a historic blacksmith’s workshop turned treasure trove of antiques and collectibles in scenic Kincardine O'Neil.
Peel of Lumphanan
4.4 km
Explore the evocative 13th-century Peel of Lumphanan, a rare earthwork castle with historic ties to King Macbeth and Scottish medieval heritage.
The Boat Inn
8.0 km
Cozy British inn and pub by the River Dee in Aboyne, offering stylish rooms, hearty local cuisine, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Craigievar Castle
10.0 km
Discover the enchanting pink Scottish castle that inspired Disney’s Cinderella, with authentic Jacobean interiors and tranquil woodland grounds.
Aberdeenshire Highland Beef
10.8 km
Experience authentic Scottish Highland cattle farming, premium beef, and immersive farm tours in the heart of Aberdeenshire countryside.
Bridge of Feugh
11.2 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.
Tarland Tearooms
12.8 km
Cozy and affordable village tearoom offering fresh paninis, salads, and traditional fare in the heart of Tarland, Aberdeenshire.
Crathes Castle
13.6 km
Explore a magnificent 16th-century Scottish castle and its enchanting gardens, blending history, nature, and family fun near Banchory.
Milton of Crathes
14.5 km
A historic riverside courtyard blending Scottish heritage, independent shops, art, and family-friendly outdoor activities near Crathes Castle.
Everlongart Studio & Gift Shop
16.0 km
Discover original Scottish art and handcrafted gifts in a welcoming studio nestled in Alford’s charming Main Street.
Grampian Transport Museum
16.2 km
Explore Scotland’s rich motoring past at Grampian Transport Museum, a family-friendly seasonal attraction in scenic Aberdeenshire.
Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve
17.2 km
Discover Scotland’s enchanting Muir of Dinnet, where ancient geology meets tranquil woodlands and rich wildlife in a captivating natural mosaic.
Castle Fraser, Garden & Estate
17.4 km
Explore one of Scotland’s grandest tower houses with secret staircases, vibrant gardens, and scenic woodland trails in Aberdeenshire.
Cullerlie Stone Circle
18.8 km
Explore the rare Bronze Age Cullerlie Stone Circle, a unique cremation site nestled in Aberdeenshire’s tranquil valley landscape.
Essential places to dine
The Cowshed Restaurant & Takeaway
10.2 km
A family-owned haven in Aberdeenshire serving simple, seasonal Scottish cuisine with a popular fresh fish takeaway.
Banchory Lodge Hotel
11.1 km
A charming 4-star riverside hotel in Royal Deeside offering comfort, local cuisine, and scenic Scottish landscapes.
Restaurant at The Lodge
11.1 km
Elegant riverside dining at Banchory Lodge Hotel, blending local flavors with historic Scottish charm and scenic Dee River views.
The Falls of Feugh Restaurant
11.2 km
Experience award-winning Scottish cuisine with stunning waterfall views on Royal Deeside’s scenic River Feugh.
Scott Skinner's Restaurant & Bar
11.5 km
A charming family-run pub and restaurant in Banchory offering hearty Scottish fare and warm hospitality in a cosy, welcoming setting.
The Garlogie Inn
19.1 km
Discover family-friendly dining at The Garlogie Inn in Westhill, where delicious meals meet warm hospitality in a cozy pub setting.
Kildrummy Inn
22.0 km
Luxurious Scottish country inn blending Victorian charm, gourmet dining, and warm hospitality in a tranquil Aberdeenshire setting.
Borsalino
23.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist in the warm, inviting atmosphere of Borsalino, Peterculter’s culinary gem.
The Himalayas Restaurant
23.8 km
Authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors served with warm hospitality in the heart of Peterculter, Aberdeen.
Shepherds Rest - Pub & Grill
24.0 km
A welcoming Westhill pub where rustic charm meets expert flame-grilled cooking in a family-friendly setting.
Luigi's
24.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy bar vibes at Luigi's, Westhill’s beloved spot for traditional pasta, pizza, and desserts.
The Ploughman
24.4 km
A traditional Scottish pub and restaurant in Peterculter serving hearty local dishes with warm hospitality and a rich drinks selection.
The Brae Cafe
24.7 km
A charming traditional Scottish café in Auchenblae offering homemade bakes, hearty meals, and warm hospitality in Aberdeenshire’s scenic countryside.
The Montgomerie Restaurant
26.5 km
A tranquil golf club restaurant in Inverurie serving excellent British cuisine with scenic course views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Fennel Restaurant
27.6 km
Modern European dining with fresh local ingredients in a relaxed, stylish setting at Inverurie’s Fennel Restaurant.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Deeside Antiques Emporium
0.9 km
Discover timeless antiques and rich heritage in the heart of Kincardine O'Neil, the oldest village in Aberdeenshire.
Treasures
1.1 km
Discover exquisite natural stones and handcrafted jewellery in the charming village of Kincardine O'Neil at Treasures rock shop.
Copper & Grey
10.2 km
Discover unique gifts and colorful treasures at Copper & Grey, Banchory’s beloved family-run boutique on High Street.
Hush Living
10.4 km
Discover unique homeware and gifts in the charming independent boutique of Hush Living, nestled in the heart of Banchory.
Treehouse
11.3 km
Discover unique gifts, home furnishings, and a cozy café experience in the charming Treehouse of Midmar near Inverurie.
Hidden Scotland Shop
14.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and handmade treasures in a charming, character-filled shop nestled in Milton of Crathes near Banchory.
Geek Bothy Ltd
20.6 km
Award-winning gift shop celebrating local makers, quirky treasures, and creative community in rural Aberdeenshire.
Castleton Farm
26.6 km
Experience authentic Scottish farm life with homemade food, local produce, and family-friendly charm at Castleton Farm near Laurencekirk.
The Steeple Shop
26.7 km
Discover local essentials and delightful treats at The Steeple Shop, your friendly convenience store in Drumlithie near Stonehaven.
Premier
26.7 km
Explore the charm of Drumlithie with a visit to Premier Convenience Store, your friendly local shop for all essentials and Scottish treats.
Encore Dress Agency
27.0 km
Discover unique vintage and occasion wear in a charming boutique with exceptional service in the heart of Laurencekirk.
CherryGrove Bits and Bobs
27.1 km
Explore the charm of CherryGrove Bits and Bobs, a craft shop offering unique handmade treasures and local artisan goods in Fettercairn.
Sonya Angus: The Unique Boutique
29.4 km
Discover stylish gifts, rustic furniture, and fashion accessories in a warm, community-focused boutique nestled in Cults’ charming Courtyard.
My Beautiful Caravan
30.6 km
Discover unique gifts and charming treasures in Stonehaven’s beloved boutique, My Beautiful Caravan.
Miss Mollys Fabric & Yarn Closet
30.8 km
A welcoming fabric and yarn boutique in Laurencekirk, perfect for creative crafters seeking quality materials and expert advice.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black's Bar
23.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and lively village pub charm at Black's Bar in Peterculter, Aberdeen.
The Old Bank Bar Ltd
23.6 km
A charming former bank turned cozy bar and cafe, blending historic character with friendly service and hearty meals in Peterculter.
Drumlithie Inn
26.7 km
A cozy, lively pub in Drumlithie offering hearty homemade food, warm hospitality, and vibrant entertainment in a beautifully updated setting.
Steading Bar
26.7 km
Cozy Highland bar with a superb whisky selection and warm hospitality nestled in Strathdon’s scenic Lonach Hotel.
Station Hotel
29.6 km
A charming Stonehaven hotel blending traditional Scottish hospitality with modern comforts, great food, and a welcoming bar.
The Distilling House
30.1 km
A welcoming airport pub celebrating Scottish whisky heritage with classic food, craft beers, and expert spirit knowledge.
Cowie Bar @ Recreation Grounds
30.5 km
A welcoming Scottish pub with a scenic beer garden and vibrant community spirit at Stonehaven Recreation Grounds.
Number 44 Hotel & Bar
30.7 km
Cozy coastal hotel and vibrant bar in Stonehaven offering sea views, delicious food, and warm Scottish hospitality.
Spider's Web
31.0 km
A cozy and friendly pub in Dyce offering hearty meals, quality drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere near Dyce railway station.
The Staging Post
31.1 km
A friendly and lively local pub in Bucksburn with great drinks, sports, and a family-friendly beer garden.
Marine Hotel
31.1 km
Experience coastal elegance and warm Scottish hospitality with stunning harbour views at Stonehaven’s Marine Hotel.
Six°North
31.1 km
Lively waterfront pub at The Marine Hotel offering traditional Scottish fare and stunning Stonehaven Harbour views.
Quoiters Cafe Bar
31.5 km
A friendly and lively bar in Newtonhill offering local ales, weekly bingo nights, and a cozy atmosphere for all to enjoy.
The Paddock Bar
31.6 km
A family-friendly pub and lounge in Portlethen offering great homemade food, extensive drinks, live sports, and weekend entertainment.
Croft & Cairns
31.9 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Babylon
33.5 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
33.6 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
33.7 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
33.7 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
34.1 km
Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.
AURA Nightclub Aberdeen
34.2 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and nostalgic disco vibes at Aura Nightclub, the city’s premier venue for dynamic music and festive parties.
The Underground Klub
34.2 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Exodus
34.2 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
Private Eyes
34.2 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
34.2 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
CHEERZ
34.5 km
Aberdeen's iconic LGBT bar and nightclub: dance, drink, and connect in a welcoming Exchange Street haven open late into the night.
The Tunnels
34.5 km
Dive into Aberdeen’s underground nightlife at The Tunnels, where pulsating beats and intimate vibes create unforgettable nights.
Utopia Nightclub Montrose
44.0 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
Elsa's Bar
45.8 km
Discover Elsa's Bar in Braemar, a cocktail oasis offering exquisite drinks and a warm, inviting atmosphere for every traveler.
Bertie's Bar
45.8 km
Experience the charm of Scottish hospitality at Bertie's Bar in Braemar, where exquisite cocktails meet a warm, inviting atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- 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
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Partial Wheelchair Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
