Braemar Castle

Braemar Castle is a community-run historic castle on the A93 in the Cairngorms National Park. The local community rescued the building and its collection in 2007 when it was at risk of closing permanently. Since 2019, a £1.6 million project has supported conservation, grounds redevelopment and a programme focused on volunteering, learning and wellbeing. The castle reopened to visitors on 2 May 2024.

The castle’s story includes hunting, building, Jacobite risings and burnings. Its displays trace the transformation of the building from a redcoat garrison to a high-society retreat with royal connections. Visitors can explore the collection through the free Bloomberg Connects digital guide, which includes an interactive map, room-by-room tour and audio commentary. The castle also participates in a sustainable-fashion project with Gray’s School of Art Aberdeen.

Facilities include Wi-Fi and toilets, along with grounds that are open throughout the year, seven days a week. Braemar Castle also offers venue hire for weddings, events, filming and photoshoots. It is served by Stagecoach route 201 from Aberdeen Bus Station, with the journey taking approximately two hours and 15 minutes. The official information provided does not list golf facilities, course details or admission prices.

From April to October, castle opening varies by month. From 3 April, it is open Wednesday to Sunday in April from 10am to 5pm, with last entry at 4:30pm. From May through September, it is open daily during those hours, except that it is closed for the Braemar Gathering on 5 September. In October, it is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm, with last entry at 4:30pm; on 16 October, last entry is at 2pm, and on 30 and 31 October, last entry is at 3pm. Visitors should check social media for current updates.