About NTS - Crathes Castle

Crathes Castle offers a versatile experience combining history, nature, and hands-on activities suitable for FITs, small groups, or large private events.

Located 18 miles from Aberdeen City, Crathes Castle is a 16th-century baronial castle set within a 595-acre estate. Known for its fairy-tale turrets, fantastical gargoyles, and the historic Horn of Leys gifted by Robert the Bruce in 1323, Crathes Castle combines architectural charm with rich Scottish history. Visitors can explore the castle’s fine antique interiors, painted ceilings, and walled gardens, while the estate offers six walking trails with opportunities to spot wildlife such as squirrels, herons, and kingfishers.

On-Site Facilities

  • Coach and car parking
  • Gift shop
  • Café
  • Written information available in German, Spanish, Italian, and French

Product Offering

FIT (Flexible Independent Traveller)

Duration: 2 hours
Availability: Year-round
Group Size: 1–11 min/max

Includes:

  • Scheduled guided tour of Crathes Castle
  • Stories about the Burnett Family, who built and lived in the castle for 350 years

Add-ons: Contact for any personalised requests.

Group Visits

Duration: 2 hours
Availability: Year-round
Group Size: 12+ min/max

Includes:

  • Guided tour of Crathes Castle
  • Optional guided tour with the head gardener

Add-ons: Contact for any personalised requests.

Private Dining

Availability: Year-round
Group Size: Castle 42 max, Horsemill 80 Max

Add-ons: Contact for any personalised requests.

Clydesdale Carriage Rides

Duration: 1 hour
Availability: Year-round
Group Size: 1-9min/max

Includes:

  • Meet the world’s second largest breed, the Clydesdale Horse
  • Carriage driving experience
  • Insights into daily welfare and teamwork of the horses
  • Guided tour of the castle estate
  • Refreshments

Add-ons: Contact for any personalised requests.

Curses of Crathes Castle – Private Ghost Tours

Duration: 2 hours
Availability: Year-round
Group Size: 10-30min/max

Includes:

  • Exclusive entry to the castle
  • Guided tour focused on myths and legends of the castle
  • Refreshments

Add-ons: Contact for any personalised requests.

Ecology & Biodiversity Walking Tour

Duration: 2 hours
Availability: Year-round
Group Size: 10-30min/max

Includes:

  • Expert-guided tour of Crathes Castle grounds
  • Wildlife spotting opportunities (squirrels, herons, kingfishers)
  • Refreshments

Add-ons: Contact for any personalised requests.

Accessibility

Accessibility varies by venue; stairs/spiral staircases limit some access.

Terms & Conditions

Trade pricing available - contact for more information

Group and FIT rates apply normal hours.

Cancellation: FIT none, Groups 2 working days; 7 days for other arrangements.

Tour operator vouchers accepted.

Payment terms on request.

Final numbers 7 days in advance.

Crathes
Crathes Castle Gardens 151 DS 113 low res8
Crathes Castle Gardens 153 DS 143 low res

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