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Kildrummy Castle, near to Milltown of Kildrummy
Photograph by Anne Burgess. Some rights reserved. (view original image)
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KILDRUMMY CASTLE FACTS
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Location
Alford, Aberdeenshire
Description
Kildrummy Castle is located near Kildrummy, in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. The castle was the seat of the Earls of Mar and was built in the 12th century and is one of the most extensive castle from this period to survive in eastern Scotland. Kildrummy Castle is shield-shaped in plan with a number of towers. The flat side of the castle overlooks a steep ravine. On the opposite side of the castle the walls come to a point, which was once defended by a massive twin-towered gatehouse. The castle also had a seven storey tall keep, called the Snow Tower which contained the main living quarters. There was also a Great Hall at the rear of the castle, and a chapel on the east side. Extensive earthworks protected the castle, including a dry moat and the ravine. Most of the castle foundations are now visible, along with most of its lower-storey walls. Archaeological excavations in 1925 uncovered decorative stone flooring and evidence of battles. Today, the castle property is owned by Historic Scotland. A hotel (the Kildrummy Castle Hotel) has been built on the old estate, overlooking the ruins.
Architecture
shield-shaped with circular towers at the two back corners, and on either side with gatehouse at the apex of the shield
History
Kildrummy Castle underwent siege numerous times in its history, first in defence of the family of Robert the Bruce in 1306, and again in 1335 by David of Strathbogie. In 1435 it was taken over by James I, becoming a royal castle until being granted to Lord Elphinstone in 1507. The castle passed from the Clan Elphinstone to the Clan Erskine before being abandoned in 1716 after the failed Jacobite rebellion.
Date
12th century
Other Castles in the Area
Abergeldie Castle
Auchindoun Castle
Balfluig Castle
Ballindalloch Castle
Balmoral Castle
Balvenie Castle
Braemar Castle
Castle Fraser
Cluny Castle
Corgarff Castle
Craigievar Castle
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