Castle Fraser, Garden & Estate (National Trust for Scotland) - Inverurie

Sarah W.

We found it easily, and parking was good. The walled garden was absolutely beautiful and had its own interesting story. The castle was fun and very interesting. You can walk through at your own pace, with very knowledgeable guides in each section of the castle. We really enjoyed the history of the place and the people that owned it and lived there. You can take pictures, and there is a cafe and nice facilities. There is spiral staircases, if that’s an issue for you.

Konstantin I.

A smaller castle, but worth the visit. The interior has a unique and fascinating design, with many rooms rich in history about the family who once lived there. The visit is self-guided, but the paper guide provided at the start offers plenty of information to help you explore at your own pace.

The rooms are beautifully presented — it almost feels like the castle is still lived in. The view from the top is stunning, and the gardens make for a lovely final stop.

The only downside was the paid parking. Considering there’s no reason to park here other than to visit the castle (and you’re already paying for entrance), it feels a bit unnecessary. Otherwise, a great experience overall.

Ian R.

We didn't visit inside the castle. We did the Alton Brae walk and then had some lunch in the cafe with a tour round the walled gardens.
Overall a very enjoyable visit. Some beautiful scenery with great views across to Bennachie.
Alton Brae walk took about an hour.

Alessandro B.

A typical Scottish castle, one of the largest and most fully accessible. A fun treasure hunt through the rooms. Last but not least, a wonderful garden.

Jonathan A.

Excellent day out at Fraser Castle. They had medieval tournament, tents with traditional craving and reenactment actors and vendors. National Trust also had a stall with gifts. We got coffee, dounuts and ginger beer at the cafe which was delicious. The walk around the walled garden was sublime. So many vegetables and strange plants I've never seen before. There is also an apple orchard and beautiful well-established trees all around. The grounds are dog-friendly and they even have dog stations with water bowls. The staff was friendly and very helpful. We will definitely be back again.

Anthony H.

Fraser Castle is a place where dreams can be made, a place of calm, and a place to explore.
A short drive from the main road leads you into a carpark offering some shade. The day we visited, the temperature was 28C.
Our first impression when we walked between the trees was "another Tower Castle?". Do not be fooled, we were in for a treat.
It is an amazing Castle, full of character and surprises. On entering the castle, we had to leave our waterbottles at reception before walking around.
We enjoyed reading the history of the family and the castle. The highlight is was visiting the view from the tower, across the estate.
From here and collecting our drinks, we set off on Miss Bristows Walk, through the forest and saw her cottage. Back to see the gardens before driving home.
This a great place to bring children as there is a children's play area, lots of space to run around and picnic. Dogs are allowed and must be on a lead.
There is a cafe a gift shop and book shop
Definitely worth visiting

Tork M.

Wonderful complete historical castle with self guided tours that tell the story of the Fraser Lairds , lots of walks through the grounds and the hidden delights of the walled garden , agreat way to spend an afternoon

Vadim S.

The most elaborate Z-plan castle in Scotland and one of the grandest 'Castles of Mar', completed in 1636.
Don't forget to visit a cafe on the ground floor: it's a former kitchen that still has a Victorian range and the set of bells, connected to the castle rooms.