Huntly Castle

Location

About

Huntly Castle is a magnificent medieval fortress located in the town of Huntly, in the Aberdeenshire region of Scotland. As a tourist destination, Huntly Castle offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Scotland's rich history and a chance to explore the ruins of a once-great stronghold.

The castle was built in the 12th century by the powerful Gordon family, who were the Earls of Huntly. Over the centuries, the castle was expanded and renovated, and it played an important role in Scotland's turbulent history. It was besieged by King James IV in the 16th century and was later occupied by the Covenanters during the Scottish Civil War.

Today, the castle is a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming from all over the world to explore its ruins and learn about its history. The castle is open to the public from April to September, and there are guided tours available for those who want to learn more about its history.

One of the highlights of a visit to Huntly Castle is exploring the castle's ruins. The castle's walls and towers are still standing, and visitors can climb up to the top of the towers for stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Inside the castle, visitors can explore the Great Hall, the kitchens, and the chapel, and they can also see the remains of the castle's dungeons.

Another must-see attraction at Huntly Castle is the castle's formal gardens. The gardens were designed in the 17th century by the architect John Bell, and they feature a range of beautiful flowers, shrubs, and trees. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and they can also see the remains of the castle's old bowling green.

For those interested in Scottish history, a visit to Huntly Castle is a must. The castle played an important role in Scotland's history, and visitors can learn about its past through a range of exhibits and displays. The castle's visitor center features a range of artifacts and displays, including weapons, armor, and household items from the castle's past.

Overall, a visit to Huntly Castle is an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in Scotland's history and medieval architecture. The castle's stunning ruins, beautiful gardens, and fascinating history make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Scotland.

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Things to do nearby

Huntly Castle, located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, is a magnificent example of Scottish medieval architecture. Built in the 12th century, it has survived numerous battles and sieges, making it an essential stop for history buffs visiting Scotland. But what else is there to see and do in the area surrounding Huntly Castle? Here are some top recommendations for tourists looking to explore the area.

1. The Lecht Ski Centre: Just a 45-minute drive from Huntly Castle is the Lecht Ski Centre. This family-friendly destination offers a variety of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. Visitors can also take lessons and rent equipment on site.

2. Strathisla Distillery: Located just 20 minutes away from Huntly Castle, the Strathisla Distillery is one of the oldest operating distilleries in Scotland. Visitors can take a tour of the facility, learn about the whiskey-making process, and even sample some of the famous Speyside whiskey.

3. Aberdeenshire Farming Museum: A short 15-minute drive from Huntly Castle, the Aberdeenshire Farming Museum provides an insight into the local agricultural industry's history. The museum is located on a working farm, and visitors can see traditional farming equipment and explore a recreated 19th-century farmstead.

4. The Falconry Centre: Just a 10-minute drive from Huntly Castle, the Falconry Centre provides an opportunity to see a variety of birds of prey up close. Visitors can take part in a hands-on falconry experience or watch one of the daily bird shows.

5. Huntly Nordic and Outdoor Centre: Located just 5 minutes away from Huntly Castle, the Huntly Nordic and Outdoor Centre offers a variety of outdoor activities, including cross-country skiing, mountain biking, and orienteering. Visitors can rent equipment on site and take part in lessons and guided tours.

6. Craigievar Castle: A 30-minute drive from Huntly Castle, Craigievar Castle is a stunning example of Scottish baronial architecture. Visitors can take a tour of the castle's interior, explore the surrounding gardens, and enjoy the scenic views from the castle's hilltop location.

7. Glenfiddich Distillery: Just a 25-minute drive from Huntly Castle, the Glenfiddich Distillery is another must-visit destination for whiskey enthusiasts. Visitors can take a guided tour of the distillery, learn about the history of Glenfiddich whiskey, and sample some of the distillery's finest blends.

In conclusion, Huntly Castle is an essential stop for history enthusiasts visiting Scotland. However, the area surrounding the castle offers a wide range of activities and attractions for tourists of all interests. Whether you're looking to hit the slopes, explore the whiskey-making process, or take in some stunning Scottish architecture, the area surrounding Huntly Castle has something to offer.