Balvenie Castle
Immensely impressive late 13th century castle that is well worth a visit if you are near Dufftown.
A fine 13th century castle of enclosure with a curtain wall, first owned by the Comyns. It passed to the Douglas family after the destruction of the Comyns by Bruce. Later, after the Douglas family itself was destroyed in 1455 after rebelling against the king (more details here). It then passed to the Stewart family, later Earl of Atholl. In the late 17th century it was replced by New Balvenie House (now hidden by the distillery) and slowly the castle fell into ruin.
Balvenie was added to in the 15th and 16th centuries. It was visited by Mary Queen of Scots in 1562 who stayed in the renaissance house that had been built in one corner of the castle.
Balvenie Castle was used as a garrison during the Jacobite rebellion but was abandoned following Culloden, as Duff had erected a classical Balvenie House nearby in 1724. The Duke of Fife placed the castle in state care in 1929.
Opening Times
| 1 April - 30 September | Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun |
9.30 am to 5.30 pm |
Adult £4.00, Child £2.40, Concession £3.20
Access to the castle is not possible for visitors using wheelchairs and difficult for visitors with limited mobility.
Contact Phone Number
01340 820 121Nearby Castles
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Auchindoun Castle
15th Century L Plan tower near Dufftown in a somewhat ruinous state today but open to the public
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Kildrummy Castle
13th century castle in ruinous state that remains a fine example of the 13th century stronghold. Open to visitors
Balvenie Castle Cottages and Holiday SelfCatering
Cottages Nearby
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Woodside Cottage, nr Keith - Sleeps 5
Nestling in 24 acres of natural grounds and woodland, this lovely detached holiday cottage, near to the owners house, is set in a beautiful, remote, sheltered location within easy reach of Dufftown. It enj... -
The Smithy Croft, Dufftown - Sleeps 6
Set in the magnificent scenery of Glen Rinnes this attractive detached holiday cottage offers peace and relaxation. Surrounded by the hills of the Glenfiddich Estate to the front and the brooding bulk of B... -
Haugh of Glass Cottage, nr Huntly - Sleeps 4
Surrounded by a beautifully maintained landscaped garden, featuring a pond, fountain, seating areas, barbecue, patio and summer house, this charming property enjoys a tranquil leafy location .... -
Milton Holiday House near River Spey - Sleeps 8
Large detached house in the Speyside village of Archiestown near Rothes. Sleeps eight people in four bedrooms.
