Crathes Castle

Now belonging to the National Trust the land on which Crathes Castle sits was previously owned by the Burnetts of Ley family and was gifted to them back in 1323 by King Robert the Bruce. Although some timber fortresses were then built it was not until 1553 that the current castle was commenced but it was 1595 before it was completed. an additional wing was added in the 18th century.

The castle was decorated with a lot of wood panelling and painted ceilings and much of it still survives and it is fitted out with antique furniture and other period pieces reflecting its ownership prior to it being handed to the National Trust in 1951. There is also a superbly maintained garden.

We went a couple of days ago and really enjoyed our visit and this is some of what we saw: