Brodie Castle and Estate: A Historic Scottish Treasure with Playful Gardens
Explore Brodie Castle’s rich history, stunning gardens, and family-friendly Playful Garden in the heart of scenic Moray countryside.
Brodie Castle, near Forres in Scotland, is a magnificent 16th-century turreted castle set within 71 hectares of gentle Moray countryside. Home to the Brodie clan for over 400 years, the estate features a rich history showcased through guided tours of the castle’s grand interiors, including fine art and antiques. The grounds offer spectacular spring daffodil displays, woodland walks, and the family-friendly Playful Garden with Scotland’s largest rabbit sculpture, adventure playground, and interactive exhibits.
A brief summary to Brodie Castle and Estate
- Brodie, Forres, IV36 2TE, GB
- +441309641700
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 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 10:30 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Pre-book guided tours at 10:30am or 3:30pm to guarantee entry, especially on busy days.
- Visit in spring to see the estate’s spectacular displays of over 100 varieties of daffodils.
- Bring children to enjoy the Playful Garden’s adventure playground and interactive exhibits.
- Parking costs £5 but is free for National Trust for Scotland members; assistance dogs are welcome inside the castle.
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 Forres to Brodie Castle takes approximately 15–20 minutes via the A96. Parking is available on-site for a £5 charge, free for National Trust members. The access road is suitable for all vehicles, but note that signage can be confusing from Inverness direction.
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Bus
Local bus services run from Forres to nearby stops on the A96, approximately 2 km from Brodie Castle. From there, a taxi or a 25-minute walk on rural roads is required. Bus frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance.
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Taxi
Taxis from Forres to Brodie Castle take about 15 minutes and cost roughly £15–£20. This is a convenient option if public transport schedules do not align with your visit times.
Brodie Castle and Estate 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
Discover more about Brodie Castle and Estate
A Storied Home of the Brodie Clan
Brodie Castle stands as a striking rose-coloured turreted fortress originally erected in 1567 by Clan Brodie, whose connection to the land dates back to a royal grant by Robert the Bruce. Unlike a traditional fortress, the castle evolved into a comfortable country house with additions spanning the 16th, 17th, and 19th centuries. Visitors can explore the castle’s main rooms on guided tours led by knowledgeable guides, who reveal the history of the Brodie family, their fortunes, and the architectural transformations over centuries. Inside, the castle houses an impressive collection of furniture, ceramics, and artworks, including 17th-century Dutch masters and a library with over 6,000 volumes.Architectural Highlights and Unique Interiors
The castle’s blend of defensive and domestic architecture is evident in its 16th-century tower house, 17th-century wing, and Victorian extensions. Noteworthy features include an ornate dining room ceiling and a pastel hand-painted ceiling in the Ladies Drawing Room. Quirky artifacts such as a small child’s skeleton on display in the Guard’s Room add a unique, if eerie, dimension to the visit. The castle’s rooms, passageways, and towers are treasure troves of historical and artistic significance, offering a glimpse into aristocratic life in Scotland.The Playful Garden: Family Fun and Imaginative Exploration
Adjacent to the castle lies the Playful Garden, a whimsical and interactive space designed to engage families and children. It features Scotland’s largest bunny sculpture, a mini castle to explore, rabbit holes to crawl through, and musical xylophones. The garden celebrates the castle’s colorful history with quirky characters and stories, making it an imaginative adventure for all ages. The garden also includes a soft play area for wet days and a woodland adventure playground, perfect for energetic exploration.Natural Beauty and Seasonal Highlights
The Brodie estate spans 71 hectares of gently rolling Moray countryside, with well-maintained woodland walks, a walled garden, and a nature trail complete with observation hides for wildlife watching. Spring is a particularly magical time to visit, as the grounds burst into color with over 100 varieties of daffodils carpeting the landscape. Nearby, Macbeth’s Hillock, linked to Shakespeare’s Macbeth, adds a layer of myth and legend to the surroundings.Visitor Experience and Amenities
The castle is open for guided tours from March to October, with Saturday mornings offering self-guided visits. Two cafés—the Castle Café and the Playful Garden Café—serve refreshments, including hot and cold drinks, soups, sandwiches, and ice cream. Gift shops at both the castle and garden sell bespoke local crafts. Facilities include accessible parking bays, toilets, and electric car charging points. Dogs are welcome on the estate and in the garden (on leads), with assistance dogs allowed inside the castle.Preservation and Community Engagement
Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, Brodie Castle is preserved to retain its homely feel as when last occupied in 1979. The estate hosts events, school visits, and private functions such as weddings, reflecting its role as a vibrant cultural and historical hub. Despite occasional closures due to weather or storm damage, the estate remains a cherished destination for history enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sueno's Stone
6.9 km
Scotland's tallest Pictish monument—a 6.5-metre enigma carved with battle scenes and royal ceremony.
Asliesk Castle (remains)
13.1 km
Explore the ivy-clad ruins of Asliesk Castle, a 16th-century Scottish tower house steeped in history and legend near Elgin, Moray.
Crook of Alves (historical placename)
16.1 km
Discover the Crook of Alves, a cultural landmark in Elgin, where history meets stunning natural beauty in Scotland's captivating landscapes.
St. Peter's Kirk & Parish Cross
22.3 km
Medieval kirk and rare surviving mercat cross spanning eight centuries of Scottish history.
Culloden Viaduct
25.0 km
Scotland’s longest masonry viaduct, a stunning 29-arch railway bridge spanning the River Nairn valley near historic Culloden Battlefield.
Leanach Farm
25.9 km
Experience authentic Highland farm life with luxury comfort, scenic views, and historic sites just minutes from Inverness.
Spynie Palace
26.3 km
Explore Spynie Palace, a magnificent historical site in Elgin, Scotland, showcasing medieval architecture amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Milton of Clava
26.6 km
Explore ancient Bronze Age burial cairns and standing stones in a serene Scottish setting near the historic Culloden Moor.
Culloden Battlefield
26.7 km
Explore the tragic yet fascinating history of Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last battle on British soil, and immerse yourself in Scotland's heritage.
Culloden House Hotel
28.1 km
Elegant Georgian mansion with historic charm, fine dining, and tranquil gardens near Inverness in the Scottish Highlands.
Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens
29.0 km
Discover the historical elegance and natural beauty of Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens in the heart of Banffshire, a must-visit for all travelers.
Rothes Castle
30.9 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Rothes Castle, a 13th-century fortress commanding the Spey Valley and steeped in Scottish medieval history.
Holiday Inn Express Inverness, an IHG Hotel
31.1 km
Comfortable, eco-friendly hotel in Inverness offering modern rooms, free breakfast, and easy access to Highland attractions.
Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre
31.7 km
Experience the warmth of family dining at Inshes Gate Brewers Fayre, featuring delicious British cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
Linn Falls
32.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Linn Falls, a stunning natural waterfall in Aberlour, Scotland, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Brodie Countryfare
0.7 km
Experience luxury country shopping and traditional Scottish dining near Brodie Castle in a charming rural setting.
Wester Hardmuir Fruit Farm
3.7 km
Pick your own soft fruit, enjoy homemade treats, and taste the Highlands at this friendly family-run farm near Nairn.
Benromach Distillery
5.6 km
A small Speyside distillery crafting smoky, fruity single malts by hand, with intimate tours and tutored tastings in a traditional, unpretentious setting.
Grant Park
6.4 km
Historic Grant Park in Forres offers vibrant gardens, a natural arena, and family-friendly spaces nestled beside scenic woodlands.
The Witches Stone
6.5 km
A haunting boulder at Cluny Hill marking the brutal fate of witches in 16th-century Scotland’s darkest trials.
Boath Doocot
6.6 km
Explore the historic 17th-century Boath Doocot, a circular dovecote perched on a mound overlooking the battlefield plains near Auldearn village.
Auldearn Castle
6.6 km
Explore the historic 12th-century motte and dovecote of Auldearn Castle, a royal Scottish stronghold steeped in medieval and Civil War history.
Logie Steading Farm & Garden Shop
7.7 km
A charming rural hub near Forres offering local plants, award-winning beef, artisan crafts, and family-friendly gardens in historic farm buildings.
Logie Steading
7.8 km
Discover artisan crafts, fresh local food, and scenic river walks at Logie Steading, a historic farmstead turned vibrant visitor centre in the heart of Scotland’s Findhorn Valley.
RSPB Culbin Sands
8.3 km
Explore the windswept dunes and rich birdlife of RSPB Culbin Sands, a protected coastal reserve with unique history and stunning natural beauty.
Randolph's Leap
8.4 km
Discover the legendary gorge where the River Findhorn narrows into a breathtaking leap of nature and history near Forres.
Sainsbury's
8.7 km
A convenient and comprehensive supermarket in Nairn’s Balmakeith Business Park, offering fresh produce, bakery delights, and everyday essentials.
Nairn Harbour
9.1 km
A historic fishing harbour turned leisure marina, offering stunning coastal views and a warm Highland welcome on Scotland’s Moray Firth.
Nairn Fisherwife Statue
9.2 km
Discover the Nairn Fisherwife Statue, a poignant tribute to the resilient women of the fishing community, set against breathtaking coastal views.
Nairn Boat Trips
9.2 km
Moray Firth dolphin cruises from a welcoming harbour town with expert crew and modern comfort.
Essential places to dine
Hearth At The Old Mill Inn Brodie
0.7 km
A stylish Scottish restaurant in a converted mill near Forres, serving seasonal, locally inspired dishes in a warm, rustic-chic setting.
Mosset Tavern
5.6 km
Historic family-run pub and restaurant in Forres, famed for hearty meals, lively atmosphere, and welcoming hospitality since 1973.
The Bonnie Beastie
5.9 km
A cozy Scottish pub and restaurant in Forres serving hearty meals, local charm, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
The White Hart
5.9 km
A cozy Scottish pub in Forres serving fresh, seasonal British classics with friendly service and a vibrant drinks selection.
Boath House Restaurant & Rooms
6.3 km
Elegant Highland retreat blending historic charm with innovative dining and serene gardens near Nairn.
Boath Garden Cafe
6.3 km
A tranquil garden café nestled within Boath House’s walled garden, offering fresh, seasonal dishes in a serene Highland setting.
The Captain's Table
8.9 km
Fresh seafood and scenic views meet friendly service at Findhorn’s beloved coastal dining spot.
Kimberley Inn
8.9 km
Cozy waterfront pub and seafood restaurant in Findhorn offering diverse menus, warm ambiance, and stunning bay views.
Spelding's Lounge Bar
9.0 km
Cozy coastal bar and restaurant with fresh seafood, live entertainment, and stunning marina views at Lochloy Holiday Park, Nairn.
Househill Cafe
9.2 km
Experience vibrant brunch and lunch delights with a sustainable touch in the cozy, stylish setting of Househill Cafe, Nairn.
Sun Dancer, Bar and Restaurant
9.3 km
Charming Scottish seafood dining with stunning Moray Firth views in the heart of Nairn’s waterfront.
Jackos Bar & Diner
9.4 km
A lively grill and family-friendly bar in Nairn offering hearty meals, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere from noon till midnight.
Cafe Nairn
9.5 km
Generous Highland breakfasts and exceptional value on Nairn's High Street.
One One Two Wine Bar and Eatery
9.5 km
A stylish Nairn wine bar where small plates with South East Asian and Middle Eastern flavours meet hand‑picked wines in a relaxed, contemporary setting.
The Royal Bengal
9.5 km
Experience authentic Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine in a smart, welcoming setting on Nairn’s High Street, blending rich flavors with attentive service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Babalu
5.9 km
Discover Babalu, Forres’ magical boutique filled with handmade gifts, unique treasures, and warm local charm on High Street.
Finishing Touches by Isobel
6.0 km
Explore Finishing Touches by Isobel in Forres for unique gifts, homewares, and a delightful shopping experience that reflects local charm.
Auldearn Antiques
7.0 km
Discover timeless antiques and architectural treasures at Auldearn Antiques, a family-run gem in Nairn with over 35 years of expertise.
KLAS Clothing
7.7 km
A charming vintage clothing shop in Nairn, perfect for unique, sustainable fashion finds with a retro twist.
Hellygog
7.7 km
Discover Hellygog, a charming craft and gift shop nestled in the historic Logie Steading, blending artisan creativity with scenic Scottish heritage.
Home Bargains
8.7 km
Affordable everyday essentials and more at Home Bargains, Nairn’s trusted discount retailer in Balmakeith Business Park.
Nisa Local
9.0 km
Explore the charm of Nairn with Nisa Local, your go-to spot for unique gifts, local treats, and everyday essentials.
Grace Lily Lingerie
9.2 km
Discover elegant, comfortable lingerie with expert fittings at Grace Lily Lingerie, Nairn’s charming boutique for intimate apparel.
On The Upside
9.2 km
Discover unique handcrafted Scottish furniture blending traditional charm with contemporary style in Nairn’s welcoming boutique store.
In Stitches
9.2 km
Expert dressmaking and alteration services in Nairn, delivering impeccable fit and craftsmanship for every occasion.
Bridgemill Direct
9.3 km
Your trusted source for quality outdoor clothing and gear in Nairn, bridging adventure with reliable equipment for all ages.
Caora Air Mara
9.4 km
Discover authentic Highland crafts and handmade treasures at Caora Air Mara, Nairn’s beloved artisan shop.
Crafty Wee Birdie
9.5 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt gifts in the welcoming charm of Nairn’s Crafty Wee Birdie boutique.
Preloved Designer Fashion Boutique
9.5 km
Explore unique, sustainable designer fashion treasures in Nairn’s charming boutique, where style meets eco-consciousness.
The Nairn Bookshop
9.5 km
A long‑standing independent bookshop on Nairn’s High Street, with a wide, thoughtful selection of fiction, non‑fiction, children’s books, and local interest titles.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Thistle Bar
5.7 km
Cozy and friendly bar on Forres High Street, offering affordable drinks and a warm local atmosphere every day from 11am to 10pm.
Legends
5.8 km
Lively pub with hearty fare, live weekend music, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Forres.
Sloe & Steady
5.9 km
Discover Forres’ cozy cocktail haven where creative drinks and a warm atmosphere blend for an unforgettable night out.
Brackla Hotel
9.3 km
A friendly and lively bar with comfortable hotel rooms, perfect for relaxing and socializing in the heart of Nairn.
The Play House
9.6 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant nightlife at The Play House, a lively nightclub and bar known for energetic music, dancing, and social fun.
Aido's bar
9.6 km
Aido's Bar offers a cozy, friendly pub experience in Nairn with local ales, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
The Albert Inn
9.9 km
Cozy Scottish pub and hotel in Nairn offering exceptional steaks, warm hospitality, and a charming Highland atmosphere.
The Clubhouse B&B
10.5 km
Boutique coastal B&B in Nairn offering modern comfort, friendly service, and easy beach access for a peaceful Highland getaway.
Braemou Inn
20.3 km
A cozy, welcoming pub and inn in Hopeman offering hearty homemade food, comfortable rooms, and a true taste of Scottish coastal hospitality.
The Fishertown Inn
21.2 km
A cozy Georgian pub in Cromarty offering exceptional food, local ales, and a warm Highland welcome on historic Church Street.
Springfield Bar
23.8 km
Experience Elgin’s friendly local vibe with great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere at Springfield Bar on Glen Moray Drive.
The Victoria Bar
23.9 km
Step into Elgin’s Victoria Bar for a true taste of traditional Scottish pub life, with friendly locals, fine whiskies, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Badenoch's
23.9 km
A lively gastro pub in Elgin offering diverse dining, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
White Horse Inn
23.9 km
A traditional Scottish pub with cozy indoor lodging, hearty fare, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Elgin.
The Thunderton House
24.0 km
Historic charm meets lively hospitality at The Thunderton House, Elgin’s beloved pub for great food, drinks, and live entertainment.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Seaforth Club
9.6 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant social heart at Seaforth Club, where community spirit meets lively nightlife in a welcoming setting.
Xplosive Discos
12.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.
Zed Bar
23.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zed Bar in Elgin, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Joannas Nightclub
23.9 km
Lively and casual nightclub in Elgin’s town centre, offering weekend late-night music, dancing, and social vibes in a friendly local setting.
Private Eyes Inverness
33.6 km
Experience Inverness’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, where stylish decor meets great music and a welcoming party atmosphere.
Revolution Inverness
33.6 km
Discover Revolution Inverness: A vibrant lounge and restaurant offering cocktails, delicious food, and an unforgettable nightlife experience in the heart of the city.
MacGregor's
33.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of MacGregor's in Inverness, offering delicious food and a great selection of drinks in a vibrant setting.
Black Isle Bar & Rooms
33.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and unique offerings of Black Isle Bar & Rooms in the heart of Inverness, your gateway to local culture and craft brews.
Hootananny
33.7 km
Discover the heart of Inverness at Hootananny, the ultimate destination for live Scottish music and vibrant nightlife.
Gellions Bar
33.7 km
Experience the heart of Inverness at Gellions Bar, where live music, local drinks, and vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
Johnny Foxes
33.7 km
Experience the heart of Inverness nightlife at Johnny Foxes - a delightful pub with cocktails, local flavors, and live music.
The Piano and Whisky Bar Inverness
34.0 km
Experience the enchanting blend of live piano music and exquisite whisky at The Piano and Whisky Bar in Inverness, a perfect night out.
The Ross Shire Club
43.0 km
Experience Dingwall’s vibrant nightlife with a welcoming vibe, BYOB policy, and lively social scene at The Ross Shire Club.
Purple Nightclub
45.1 km
Experience Buckie’s vibrant nightlife at Purple Nightclub, the ultimate destination for dancing, live music, and unforgettable late-night events.
the Balavoulin
45.6 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub with hearty meals and cozy rooms, perfectly placed for exploring Aviemore and the Cairngorms.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Family Friendly
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
