Discover the Enchantment of Crathes Castle
Explore the historic Crathes Castle, a stunning 16th-century fortress surrounded by beautiful gardens and a rich tapestry of Scottish heritage.
Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Scotland, Crathes Castle is a stunning 16th-century fortress surrounded by lush gardens and rich history, perfect for a day of exploration for any tourist.
A brief summary to Crathes Castle
- Banchory, Crathes, AB31 5QJ, GB
- +441330844525
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the spring or summer months to see the gardens in full bloom.
- Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the castle's fascinating history.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful stroll through the gardens.
- Don't miss the chance to grab a snack or drink at the on-site café, which offers lovely views.
- Check the castle's events calendar for seasonal activities and special exhibitions.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, the address for Crathes Castle is Crathes, Banchory AB31 5QJ. From Banchory, head southwest on the A93 road. Follow the A93 for about 1.5 miles and then turn left onto the B976 towards Crathes. Continue on the B976 for about 1 mile until you see signs for Crathes Castle. There is a parking area available on-site, which typically charges a fee of around £3 for parking. Please have coins or a card ready for payment.
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Public Transport - Bus
For those using public transport, you can take the Stagecoach Bus 201 service from Aberdeen to Banchory. The bus departs from Aberdeen bus station and takes about 45 minutes to arrive in Banchory. Once you arrive in Banchory, you will need to take a local taxi (approximately £10) or walk about 1.5 miles to reach Crathes Castle. Follow the B976 road which leads directly to the castle.
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Walking from Banchory
If you prefer walking from Banchory, exit the bus station and head southwest on the A93. After about 0.5 miles, take a left onto the B976 road. Continue walking on the B976 for about 1 mile, and you will arrive at Crathes Castle. The walk takes approximately 30-40 minutes, so wear comfortable shoes and prepare for the Scottish weather.
Discover more about Crathes Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Keith's Tower
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Discover Keith's Tower near Banchory, a striking 19th-century castellated landmark steeped in Scottish heritage and scenic charm.
Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk
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Explore the evocative medieval ruins of Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk, a historic Scottish landmark steeped in centuries of religious and local heritage.
Blairs Museum
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Explore Scotland’s Catholic heritage through centuries-old artifacts at Blairs Museum near Aberdeen, a unique cultural and spiritual treasure.
Boswell's Monument
15.5 km
Historic hilltop monument offering panoramic Aberdeenshire views and local heritage significance.
Robert Burns Family Memorial Cairn
17.3 km
Honoring Robert Burns’s ancestral roots in Stonehaven with a timeless stone memorial set in scenic Scottish countryside.
Piper Alpha Memorial Garden
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A solemn bronze memorial honoring 167 lives lost in the world's deadliest offshore oil disaster.
Stone 45
20.2 km
A historical landmark preserving Aberdeen's heritage in the heart of Bucksburn.
Dyce Standing Stones
20.6 km
Mysterious Pictish stones bridging pagan and Christian worlds, carved over 1,400 years ago.
Queen Victoria Statue
21.0 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
Edward VIII Post Box
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Workers' Memorial
21.6 km
A solemn granite obelisk in peaceful Persley Walled Garden, honoring Aberdeen’s industrial workers who lost their lives.
McGrigor Memorial Obelisk
21.7 km
A polished pink granite obelisk in Duthie Park honoring Sir James McGrigor, father of modern military medicine and a key figure in Aberdeen’s history.
Rosemount Market
21.7 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
22.1 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
22.2 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
Unmissable attractions to see
Milton of Crathes
1.0 km
A historic riverside courtyard blending Scottish heritage, independent shops, art, and family-friendly outdoor activities near Crathes Castle.
Aberdeenshire Highland Beef
2.9 km
Experience authentic Scottish Highland cattle farming, premium beef, and immersive farm tours in the heart of Aberdeenshire countryside.
Bridge of Feugh
3.7 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.
Drum Castle - Garden & Estate
7.2 km
Explore 700 years of Scottish history, stunning gardens, and ancient oak woodlands at Drum Castle, a timeless estate near Banchory.
The Mains of Drum
8.0 km
A family-run garden centre and award-winning restaurant offering stunning landscaped grounds, local produce, and expert gardening advice in Royal Deeside.
Cullerlie Stone Circle
9.0 km
Explore the rare Bronze Age Cullerlie Stone Circle, a unique cremation site nestled in Aberdeenshire’s tranquil valley landscape.
Peterculter Golf Club
10.9 km
Experience the scenic beauty and challenging play of Peterculter Golf Club nestled along the River Dee with panoramic mountain views.
The Den & The Glen
12.8 km
A nostalgic children’s playground in Maryculter where storybook characters come to life amidst scenic, family-friendly grounds.
Barney Sculpture
12.9 km
Discover the quirky Barney Sculpture, a playful icon within The Den and The Glen’s imaginative fairy-tale park near Aberdeen.
Kincardine
13.6 km
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Kincardine O'Neil Old Parish Church
14.5 km
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The Old Smiddy
14.6 km
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Foggieton
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Countesswells
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A peaceful woodland escape on the edge of Aberdeen, with wide trails, tall trees, and gentle views over farmland and the city skyline.
Castle Fraser, Garden & Estate
15.8 km
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Essential places to dine
Scott Skinner's Restaurant & Bar
2.5 km
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Banchory Lodge Hotel
3.4 km
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Restaurant at The Lodge
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The Cowshed Restaurant & Takeaway
3.5 km
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The Falls of Feugh Restaurant
3.7 km
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The Garlogie Inn
10.0 km
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Borsalino
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The Himalayas Restaurant
11.2 km
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The Ploughman
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13.9 km
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Luigi's
14.3 km
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The Bieldside Inn
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Blairs Restaurant
16.7 km
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The Stack Restaurant and Bar
17.4 km
Innovative Scottish dining in a relaxed coastal village setting, blending fresh local ingredients with global flavors.
The Bay Fish & Chips
17.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hidden Scotland Shop
1.0 km
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Hush Living
4.0 km
Discover unique homeware and gifts in the charming independent boutique of Hush Living, nestled in the heart of Banchory.
Copper & Grey
4.2 km
Discover unique gifts and colorful treasures at Copper & Grey, Banchory’s beloved family-run boutique on High Street.
Treehouse
10.2 km
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Deeside Antiques Emporium
14.3 km
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Treasures
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The Steeple Shop
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Premier
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Sonya Angus: The Unique Boutique
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My Beautiful Caravan
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Discover unique gifts and charming treasures in Stonehaven’s beloved boutique, My Beautiful Caravan.
Castleton Farm
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Geek Bothy Ltd
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Gifted
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Joli Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Old Bank Bar Ltd
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Station Hotel
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Drumlithie Inn
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Cowie Bar @ Recreation Grounds
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Number 44 Hotel & Bar
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The Paddock Bar
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Marine Hotel
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Six°North
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Brig O Dee Bar
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The Staging Post
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Abergeldie Bar
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Murdos Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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491 Union Street
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Venga
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Club Tropicana & Venga
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Number 7 Club
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AURA Nightclub Aberdeen
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The Underground Klub
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Private Eyes
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The Mask Club
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Exodus
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CHEERZ
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The Tunnels
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Dive into Aberdeen’s underground nightlife at The Tunnels, where pulsating beats and intimate vibes create unforgettable nights.
Utopia Nightclub Montrose
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Royal Night Club
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The Attic Club
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