Braemar Castle: A Storied Highland Fortress and Community Treasure
Discover Braemar Castle, a historic 17th-century Highland fortress lovingly preserved by its community amidst the stunning Cairngorms landscape.
Braemar Castle, built in 1628 in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, is a historic fortified hunting lodge with a turbulent past. It served as a garrison, family home, and now a community-run museum showcasing 12 authentically furnished rooms. Set in the Cairngorms National Park near the village of Braemar, the castle offers visitors a glimpse into 400 years of Highland history, royal connections, and clan heritage, surrounded by scenic landscapes and tranquil grounds.
A brief summary to Braemar Castle
- Ballater, Braemar, AB35 5XR, GB
- +441339741219
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit between April and October when the castle is open Wednesday to Sunday, with extended summer hours for daily visits.
- Explore the grounds year-round for free; the gardens and walking paths offer peaceful Highland scenery.
- Consider joining a guided tour or audio tour to fully appreciate the castle’s rich history and stories.
- Parking requires a daily fee; use designated car parks and respect the community’s efforts to maintain the site.
- Nearby Braemar village offers cafes and shops, as there are no catering facilities on site.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach 201 bus from Aberdeen Bus Station to Braemar, a scenic journey lasting approximately 2 hours 15 minutes. Service frequency varies seasonally; check schedules in advance. From Braemar village, the castle is a short walk or taxi ride.
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Car
Drive via the A93 scenic route to Braemar Castle, located just east of Braemar village. Parking is available on site with a £4 daily fee payable at the car park. Note that overnight parking is not permitted, and spaces may be limited during peak seasons.
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Walking
From Braemar village center, a pleasant 20-minute walk along well-maintained paths leads to the castle. The terrain is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors including those with limited mobility.
Braemar Castle 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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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Braemar Castle
Origins and Turbulent History of Braemar Castle
Braemar Castle was constructed in 1628 by the Earl of Mar as a Highland hunting lodge, embodying the strategic and social importance of the region. Its history is marked by dramatic events, including being set ablaze in 1689 by the notorious Black Colonel during the Jacobite uprisings. Later, it was repurposed as a garrison for Hanoverian soldiers after the 1745 Jacobite rebellion to enforce government control and suppress Highland traditions such as wearing tartan or carrying weapons. Over centuries, the castle witnessed the rise and fall of clans and noble families, reflecting Scotland’s complex political and cultural landscape.Architectural Features and Interior Charm
The castle is an L-shaped tower house featuring castellated turrets, a star-shaped curtain wall, and a distinctive right-winding spiral stone staircase leading to three floors. Inside, 12 rooms are furnished with period furniture, memorabilia, and personal belongings of the Farquharson family, who owned the castle for over 200 years. Visitors can explore rooms such as the grand dining room, drawing room, Victorian bathrooms, and a morning room, all preserved to evoke the atmosphere of a lived-in family home. The castle also houses artifacts including a timber fragment from the 1689 fire and a Bronze Age sword found nearby.Community Stewardship and Restoration Efforts
In 2007, facing the threat of closure, Braemar Castle was rescued by the local community who secured a lease and funding to preserve its unique collection and fabric. Since then, community volunteers and staff have managed the castle, raising funds for essential repairs and conservation projects. The ongoing "Raising the Standard" initiative aims to restore the castle and its grounds further while enhancing community engagement through learning and wellbeing programs. This community stewardship makes Braemar Castle Scotland’s first community-run castle, a model of sustainable heritage management.Visitor Experience and Surrounding Environment
Nestled within the Cairngorms National Park, the castle is surrounded by tranquil gardens and scenic Highland landscapes. The grounds are open year-round, offering peaceful walks and picnic spots. Inside, guided tours and audio tours in multiple languages provide rich historical narratives about the castle’s past residents and events. The castle’s location near the village of Braemar, on the A93 scenic route, places it close to other attractions like Balmoral Castle. Visitors can enjoy the blend of history, nature, and community spirit in a uniquely intimate setting.Cultural Significance and Royal Connections
Braemar Castle has hosted royal visitors and tenants, including connections to the Farquharson clan chiefs and notable figures such as Frances Farquharson, an American fashion journalist who decorated the castle with distinctive flair. The castle played a role in key historical moments, including the 1715 Jacobite uprising led by the sixth Earl of Mar. Its story intertwines with Scottish myths, legends, and clan heritage, offering visitors a deep cultural insight into the Highlands' past.Events, Accessibility, and Visitor Amenities
The castle hosts occasional events like poetry readings and community festivals, enriching the visitor experience. Access paths have been improved for better mobility, including partial wheelchair access and accessible toilets. While there are no onsite catering facilities, the nearby village provides cafes and shops. Parking is available with a daily fee supporting castle upkeep. The castle welcomes families, solo travelers, and history enthusiasts, making it a versatile destination year-round.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Airlie Monument
37.8 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
38.3 km
A powerful granite tribute to Antarctic explorers Captain Scott and Dr Edward Wilson, set in the peaceful hills of Glen Prosen near Kirriemuir.
Atholl Palace Hotel
40.1 km
Historic Victorian elegance meets Highland tranquility at Atholl Palace Hotel, a luxurious retreat in the heart of Pitlochry.
Clunie Memorial Arch
40.7 km
A solemn stone arch in Perth and Kinross honoring the men who sacrificed their lives building one of the UK's largest water tunnels.
Dunfallandy Stone
41.5 km
A 1,200-year-old Pictish cross-slab revealing ancient artistry and the clash of pagan and Christian worlds.
Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk
44.1 km
Explore the evocative medieval ruins of Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk, a historic Scottish landmark steeped in centuries of religious and local heritage.
Soldiers Head
45.4 km
Discover Soldiers Head near Inverness, a natural Highland landmark steeped in history and local legend, offering stunning views and cultural significance.
Centre of Scotland Stone
47.6 km
Discover the symbolic heart of mainland Scotland marked by a majestic stone set amidst the tranquil Highlands near Newtonmore.
Dunkeld Cathedral
51.4 km
Discover the architectural grandeur and serene beauty of Dunkeld Cathedral, a celebrated landmark of Scotland's rich ecclesiastical heritage.
Dunkeld Bridge
51.5 km
Historic Thomas Telford-designed stone bridge gracefully spanning the River Tay, linking Dunkeld’s rich heritage with Highland landscapes.
Birnam Oak
51.6 km
An ancient oak on the banks of the River Tay, believed to be the last survivor of Shakespeare’s Birnam Wood – a living piece of Scottish and literary history.
Restenneth Priory
52.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Restenneth Priory in Forfar, a captivating destination that reveals Scotland's rich monastic heritage.
Pine Cone Point
52.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Pine Cone Point in Dunkeld, a scenic haven perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Balmashanner Monument
52.4 km
A solemn Scottish Baronial tower honoring Forfar’s WWI heroes with breathtaking views over Angus countryside.
The Hermitage
52.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of The Hermitage, a national forest in Scotland, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Braemar Chocolate Shop
1.1 km
Discover handmade Scottish chocolates crafted with passion in the heart of Braemar village, Cairngorms National Park.
McLean Of Braemar
1.1 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
1.3 km
Explore Scotland’s Highland Games heritage and royal connections at the stunning Braemar Highland Games Centre in the Duke of Rothesay Pavilion.
Balmoral Castle
10.2 km
Explore Balmoral Castle, the Scottish Highland home of the British Royal Family, where royal heritage meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Cairngorms National Park
11.0 km
Explore the UK’s largest national park, where rugged mountains, ancient forests, and rich Highland heritage create an unforgettable wilderness adventure.
Crathie, Suspension Bridge
11.1 km
Discover the stunning Crathie Suspension Bridge, a picturesque landmark over the River Dee, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Devil’s Elbow Viewpoint
16.7 km
Experience the iconic double hairpin bends and sweeping Highland panoramas at Devil’s Elbow Viewpoint in Glenshee.
Corgarff Castle
19.0 km
A remote 16th-century fortress in the Cairngorms, Corgarff Castle reveals Scotland’s fierce clan battles, Jacobite struggles, and whisky smuggling tales.
Corrie Fee
19.6 km
A breathtaking glacial amphitheatre in Scotland’s Cairngorms, rich in rare alpine flora and dramatic natural beauty.
Cairngorm Mountain
21.5 km
Scotland's premier mountain resort where winter skiing meets year-round Highland adventure in the heart of the Cairngorms.
Loch Morlich
25.2 km
A stunning freshwater loch with a sandy beach, nestled beneath the Cairngorm Mountains, offering watersports, walking trails, and breathtaking Highland scenery.
Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve
28.2 km
Discover Scotland’s enchanting Muir of Dinnet, where ancient geology meets tranquil woodlands and rich wildlife in a captivating natural mosaic.
Invermark Castle
30.9 km
A towering 16th-century Scottish tower house guarding Glen Esk’s wild beauty with historic strength and dramatic mountain views.
Rothiemurchus
31.4 km
Explore ancient forests, thrilling outdoor adventures, and Highland heritage at Rothiemurchus Estate near Aviemore.
Little Landys, Rothiemurchus
31.4 km
Thrilling off-road driving for kids aged 6-11 on a safe, purpose-built 4x4 track in the heart of Rothiemurchus, Aviemore.
Essential places to dine
The Clunie Dining Room
1.1 km
Elegant Scottish fine dining with wood-fired flavors and striking contemporary art in the heart of Braemar’s Cairngorms.
Ptarmigan Restaurant
19.6 km
Dine at the UK’s highest restaurant with panoramic Highland views and hearty local fare atop Cairngorm Mountain.
Cairngorm Cafe
21.4 km
Cozy café nestled in Cairngorm Mountain ski area serving hearty seasonal food with stunning Highland views year-round.
Coylumbridge Hotel
30.7 km
Family-friendly resort nestled in the Cairngorms with pools, adventure parks, and Highland charm for all ages.
The Old Bridge Inn
32.5 km
A cozy Highland gastro pub on the River Spey, blending hearty local fare, live music, and warm hospitality in Aviemore.
Happy Haggis
32.6 km
Aviemore’s cherished family-run spot serving crispy, delicious fish and chips with warm, friendly service since 1974.
Macduis Speyside Inn Catering Ltd
32.7 km
A welcoming Highland pub in Aviemore serving hearty comfort food with a famously dog-friendly atmosphere and attentive service.
The Winking Owl, Craft Ale Pub & Bar
33.1 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
34.0 km
Charming Highland dining with stunning Loch Insh views and hearty Scottish fare at the heart of the Cairngorms outdoor centre.
Andersons Restaurant
34.2 km
Cozy and intimate dining in Boat of Garten, blending bistro charm with Scottish flavors for memorable family and special occasions.
Killiecrankie House
38.1 km
Award-winning fine dining and luxury bedrooms in a contemporary Scottish country house.
The Loft Restaurant
38.7 km
Experience warm hospitality and fresh Scottish flavors in the scenic Cairngorms at The Loft Restaurant, Blair Atholl’s beloved dining spot.
Kildrummy Inn
39.3 km
Luxurious Scottish country inn blending Victorian charm, gourmet dining, and warm hospitality in a tranquil Aberdeenshire setting.
Victoria's Restaurant
40.5 km
A long-standing family-run eatery in Pitlochry, blending a relaxed coffee house by day with a chic bistro by evening, serving Scottish, British and Italian comfort food in a warm, open-fire setting.
Fern Cottage Restaurant
40.5 km
A cozy stone cottage in Pitlochry serving Scottish classics with a Mediterranean twist, plus a separate vegan menu and warm, attentive service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Horn Shop
1.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish horn crafts and souvenirs in the heart of Braemar’s charming Highland village.
The Highlander
1.1 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
1.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Braemar’s scenic Highlands village.
Balmoral Castle Shop
10.3 km
Discover exquisite royal souvenirs and handcrafted treasures at Balmoral Castle Shop, set in a charming Victorian stable in scenic Aberdeenshire.
The Shop At The Top
19.6 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.
The Whisky Castle & Highland Market
26.3 km
Discover a century-old whisky treasure trove in Tomintoul, where Scotland’s finest malts meet warm Highland hospitality.
Balliefurth Farm Shop
32.2 km
Highland heritage meets artisan quality in Scotland's Cairngorms—a family-run butcher and farm shop since 1948.
Aviemore Gift Company
32.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and local crafts in Aviemore’s largest and most welcoming souvenir shop.
Ellis Brigham - Aviemore
32.8 km
Your expert outfitter for skiing, climbing, hiking, and outdoor adventure in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park.
Mountain Warehouse
32.8 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Aviemore for quality gear and expert advice in the heart of the Highlands.
Young's Auld Sweetie Shop
32.9 km
Nostalgic confectionery haven where vintage glass jars and pick-and-mix treasures await in the heart of Aviemore.
Nevisport
32.9 km
Your expert outfitter for top-quality outdoor gear and advice in the heart of Cairngorm National Park, Aviemore.
Trespass Aviemore
33.0 km
Essential outdoor clothing and equipment in Aviemore, perfect for exploring the Scottish Highlands year-round.
Cairngorm Mountain Sports
33.0 km
Your trusted outdoor sports shop in Aviemore, offering expert gear for alpine touring, climbing, skiing, and Nordic adventures year-round.
Blacks
33.0 km
Your essential outfitter for outdoor adventures in Aviemore, offering expert gear and advice for exploring the Scottish Highlands.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Elsa's Bar
1.1 km
A stylish cocktail bar blending Scottish spirits and Art Deco charm in Braemar’s iconic Fife Arms hotel.
Farquharsons Bar and Kitchen
1.1 km
Cozy gastropub in Braemar offering classic Scottish fare, pet-friendly charm, and a warm Highland welcome in the heart of Cairngorms National Park.
The Flying Stag
1.1 km
A vibrant Scottish pub in Braemar blending local heritage, hearty cuisine, and unique art in the heart of the Cairngorms.
Bertie's Bar
1.1 km
Discover Scotland’s whisky heritage in Bertie’s Bar, a glowing library of over 500 whiskies inspired by King Edward VII’s lavish spirit.
The Drawing Room
1.1 km
An elegant Victorian-style lounge in Braemar blending world-class art, Highland hospitality, and refined afternoon tea experiences.
The Pine Marten Bar
25.1 km
Cozy alpine-style bar in Glenmore offering local ales, hearty food, live music, and a warm welcome near Loch Morlich.
Steading Bar
29.0 km
Cozy Highland bar with a superb whisky selection and warm hospitality nestled in Strathdon’s scenic Lonach Hotel.
Woodshed Bar
30.6 km
A cozy log cabin bar in Aviemore offering local ales, crafted cocktails, and a warm Highland atmosphere with occasional live music.
The Aviemore Inn pub and grill
32.4 km
Cozy Highland pub in Aviemore Holiday Park serving hearty home-cooked meals and live music in a warm, family-friendly setting.
Mambos
32.8 km
Lively Aviemore bar and eatery with diverse menu, friendly vibe, and vibrant nightlife on Grampian Road in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Cairngorm Hotel
32.8 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and cozy charm in Aviemore’s Cairngorm Hotel, your gateway to the Highlands.
Skiing Doo
33.0 km
A beloved Aviemore bar and restaurant known for hearty British fare and friendly vibes, now closed but fondly remembered.
the Balavoulin
33.1 km
A cosy Highland pub and guesthouse in Aviemore offering hearty food, local drinks, and comfortable rooms in a warm, welcoming setting.
The Boat Country Inn & Restaurant
34.0 km
A cozy Highland inn blending rustic charm, hearty Scottish cuisine, and scenic mountain views in the heart of Boat of Garten.
SUIE BAR
35.2 km
Experience authentic Highland hospitality with local ales, whiskies, and live music in the historic heart of Kincraig.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Vault
32.9 km
Experience Aviemore’s vibrant nightlife at The Vault, a lively nightclub blending modern beats with Highland charm every weekend.
The Gig
47.3 km
Experience Blairgowrie’s vibrant nightlife at The Gig, a welcoming and affordable nightclub in the heart of this scenic Scottish town.
Royal Night Club
51.2 km
Vibrant nightlife and lively DJ nights in the heart of Forfar’s historic Royal Hotel, complete with rooftop terrace and buzzing bar scene.
Utopia Nightclub Montrose
65.7 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
Dundemo
66.5 km
Dundemo nightclub pulses with energy in Dundee’s historic Lower Ward, blending vibrant nightlife with the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Private Eyes
66.5 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with live pole dance shows, VIP lounges, and a lively atmosphere at Private Eyes nightclub.
Pout Bar and Nightclub
66.5 km
Dundee's vibrant gay nightclub offering great music, welcoming vibes, and late-night dancing in the heart of the city.
Afro Beats
66.5 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with pulsating Afrobeats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night energy at Afro Beats nightclub.
OUT Nightclub
66.5 km
A lively Dundee nightclub known for quality music, vibrant atmosphere, and a central spot on Seagate’s nightlife strip.
Club Tropicana & Venga
66.6 km
Step into Dundee’s ultimate 80s nightclub for nostalgic beats, vibrant dance floors, and unforgettable retro nights at Club Tropicana & Venga.
AURA Nightclub
66.6 km
Dundee’s vibrant AURA Nightclub pulses with chart hits, themed parties, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Fat Sams
66.6 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife at Fat Sam's, a legendary club blending live music, themed rooms, and nostalgic beats in a lively urban setting.
Rewind dundee
66.7 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant retro club nights and live local music at Rewind, a welcoming hub of nostalgia and nightlife energy.
Underground
66.8 km
Dundee’s vibrant nightclub and live music venue where dancing, live bands, and late-night fun come alive every weekend.
Decades Bar & Nightclub
66.9 km
Step back in time with Decades Bar & Nightclub, Dundee’s vibrant retro hotspot playing the best hits from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Relaxing
- 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
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- 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
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
