Beldorney Castle
Large C16th Z Plan tower with many later extensions which fell into disrepair before beig restored in 1980s and is now private. This may be the oldest surviving Z Plan house apart from Huntly Castle.
The house is a standard Z plan with extra extension and a modern house adjoining. The land was owned by the Ogilvies before being passed to the Gordons who built the castle after 1500. Later it was asquired from the Gordon as a result of debt by a John Lyon whose unpopularity led to him being murdered by the tenants. In the rebellion of 1689 it was pillagfed by the Jacobites. After being sold on latterly to the Grants, the house was restored in 1960s when early restoration wall paintings were found.
Further history:
The Ogilvies held Beldorney from the late 15th century until it was granted in 1545 to George Gordon and Janet Rose. He was the eldest of three illegitimate sons of Adam Gordon, Dean of Caithness, the third son of Alexander, 1st Earl of Huntly. It is likely that the castle was built between 1552, when the Crown confirmed the transfer, and 1562 when the estate was confiscated for three years after the battle of Corrichie. In the mid 17th century the Gordons of Beldorney got into financial difficulties. A relative named John Lyon obtained the superiority but was hated by the tenants and was murdered by them in the Braes of Abernethie in 1667. John Gordon, 5th laird, spent a year confined in Edinburgh Tollbooth before he was cleared of complicity in the crime. He and his wife Anne have left their initials and the date 1679 on the courtyard entrance, so somehow they must have found the funds to build this court with low ranges on either side. In 1689 Beldorney was pillaged by Highland Jacobites during their pursuit of the Williamite forces under General Mackay. In the 1790s the estate was sold to Thomas Buchan of Auchmacoy who in turn sold it to Sir William Grant. After the Grant male line failed in 1919 the estate was sold to Sir Thomas Birkett for whom alterations were made. Further works were carried out for Commander Vivian Robinson, who purchased the castle after Sir Thomas died in 1959.
Opening Times
Private residence
Websites to Visit
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Mini Highland Games Aberdeen
Enjoy a great time trying some of the top activities during your highland games experience with mates in Aberdeen. -
Clay Pigeon Shooting Aberdeen
Start shooting and splinter those flying clays in the air who knows you may end up being a pro. -
The Lecht Ski Resort Full Day
Full day of skiing in a full slope area with magic carpet lift for starters to a black run for experienced. Higest standard of ski instruction. Includes all the facilities in one building. -
4X4 Blindfold Off Road Driving, Aberdeen
4x4 Off Road Driving is tough enough now add a blindfold! We can help book this activity and also transfers to and from the activity center.
Nearby Castles
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Mains of Mayen
L Plan tower dating from end of C17. Now a private house. Grade B Listed. Was dilapidated and restored in 1960s. Private.
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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
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Delgatie Castle
C15th Castle near Turriff in excellent condition with long, interesting history. Two bedrooms available for B&B so great opportunity to stay.
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Frendraught Castle
Site of 13th century castle, which was torched in 1630. The present house dates from 1656, was remodelled in 1753, extended to 1790, and incorporates a small part of the old castle.
Beldorney Castle Cottages and Holiday SelfCatering
Cottages Nearby
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Isla Bank Cottage, Sleeps 4
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Woodside Cottage, nr Keith - Sleeps 5
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The Chalet, nr Keith - Sleeps 4
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Isla Bank House, Keith - Sleeps 12
Magnificent, baronial-style mansion provides a stunning setting from which to tour the Moray coast and the Grampian Highlands. Standing within its own spacious grounds on the edge of Keith, on the Whi... -
Dalriada Bungalow, Keith - Sleeps 6
This well designed and spacious holiday bungalow is located down a quiet lane in the centre of Keith, a rural market town on the Castle and Whisky Trails, and well placed for touring Aberdeenshire and Mora... -
Eastertown, Huntly, sleeps 8
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Westerpark, by Huntly - Sleeps 6
"Beautiful surroundings with forests, river and countryside walks all waiting to be discovered and savoured..." Elec by meter reading Bed linen inc Towels by arr Cot TV Video or DVD M/w... -
Terryhorn Bungalow, Huntly - Sleeps 6
This is an attractive holiday bungalow in a peaceful rural setting on a farm near the River Deveron. Tour the castles or whisky trail in this historic area, visit the museums, and the city of Aberdeen, wit... -
Straitinnan, by Huntly - sleeps 4
"Beautiful surroundings with forests, river and countryside walks all waiting to be discovered and savoured..." Elec by meter reading Bed linen inc Towels by arr Cot TV Video or DVD M/w... -
Marchmar Farmhouse, nr Huntly - sleeps 6-7
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Mar Lodge, nr Huntly - Sleeps 2
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Jocky Milnes Croft, by Huntly - Sleeps 2
"Beautiful surroundings with forests, river and countryside walks all waiting to be discovered and savoured..." Elec by meter reading Bed linen inc Towels by arr Cot TV Video or DVD M/w... -
Cabrach Farmhouse, nr Huntly - Sleeps 6
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Haugh of Glass Cottage, nr Huntly - Sleeps 4
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Auchingoul Cottage - Huntly Sleep 4
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The Bothy - Huntly sleeps 2
Stone cottage located near to Aberchirder and Huntly Sleep2 2 people in 1 bedroom. -
Woodland Retreat Log Cabin Huntly
Wooden log cabin located near to Aberchirder and Huntly. Sleeps 5 people in 3 bedrooms.
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Deveron Wooden Chalet near Huntly - Sleeps 5
Wooden lodge/chalet near Aberchirder and Huntly. Sleeps 5 people in 2 bedrooms. -
Mill of Old Mains, Aberdeenshire - Sleeps 8
This beautifully restored watermill set in the heart of rural Aberdeenshire, makes a very spacious and attractive holiday retreat, set within 4 acres of grounds with a small stream babbling through, and of...
