Top 4 Castles around Alvah And Forglen
Best castles around Alvah And Forglen are found in a region of Aberdeenshire, Scotland, known for its historical sites. The area features a mix of standing castles, ruins, and historic houses built on former castle grounds. Visitors can explore various architectural styles, from 16th-century tower houses to more modern mansion structures. This landscape offers insights into centuries of Scottish history and heritage.
Best castles around Alvah And Forglen
- The most popular castles is Boyne Castle Ruins, a historical site with impressive stonework. This castle ruin is hidden in the forest, offering a glimpse into its past grandeur.
- Another must-see spot is Eden Castle Ruins, a 16th-century historical site. One of its two original towers still stands at approximately 13 meters high, with the foundation of the second tower also visible.
- Visitors also love Delgatie Castle, a historical site first built in 1049 and substantially re-built in the 16th century. This castle is open daily, providing a tangible connection to Scottish history.
- Alvah And Forglen is known for its castle ruins, restored tower houses, and historical mansion houses. Visitors can explore a variety of historical structures, from ancient foundations to well-preserved buildings.
- The castles around Alvah And Forglen are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 15 upvotes and over 15 photos shared.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Eden Castle Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
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Boyne Castle Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
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Delgatie Castle
Highlight • Cafe
You can visit the castle which is open every day from 10:00 - 17:00.
The 'Laird's Kitchen' Tearoom is open everyday, serving drinks, snacks and light meals.
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Duff House
Highlight • Monument
Architect William Adam rose to the challenge by designing an ambitious baroque mansion. Work began in 1735, with elaborate carved details mostly produced in Adam’s own stoneworks in Queensferry.
Work stopped in 1741, long before the interior was finished. Copies of Adam’s original plans for the house hang in the study. These show the grand curved east and west wings that were never built.
A bitter five-year court case found in favour of Adam. But he died before he could recoup the debt owed to him. Lord Braco felt so let down by the result that he never slept a night in the house. It was left to his heirs to complete the work.
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Banff Castle and Gardens
Highlight • Monument
The old castle was demolished and a mansion house designed by architect John Adam was built in 1750. The remains of the old castle are a scheduled ancient monument.
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Around 1320, the land was owned by Thomas Randolph, 1st Earl of Moray, but passed first to the Edmonstone family and then, by marriage, to the Ogilvies. Sir George Ogilvy of Dunlugas built the castle in the late 16th century for his bride, Mary Beaton, a companion of Mary, Queen of Scots. Occupation continued until after 1723. James VI of Scotland stayed at the castle in July 1589. His ambassadors Andrew Keith, Lord Dingwall, George Young, and John Skene brought him news from Denmark of the progress of his marriage negotiations and preparations of ships, jewels, and a silver coach for Anne of Denmark.
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The cakes were nice; the castle itself a major disappointment. Despite being there well before the castle's closing time of 4pm, I was not able to go on a tour of the house. Didn't see anything on the website nor in the building saying the last tour was at 3pm but when I attempted to buy a ticket for the house at 3:30pm, that's what the lady said. 🙄 Not only that but she wouldn't let me have a look around unaccompanied. Ironically, we were actually there at about 2:50pm but headed into the tea room first, unaware that there was any time constraint on visiting the rest of the place. 😐 If the communication hadn't been so piss-poor, I could have gone round the house first. 😳
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Built as a motte and bailey castle in the 12th century and held by the Comyns, Earl of Buchan. The castle was visited by King Edward I of England in 1296 and also in 1298 after defeating William Wallace at the Battle of Falkirk during the Wars of Scottish Independence. The castle was garrisoned with English troops until being captured by the Scots in 1310. It came into the possession of the Sharps, before being sold to Lord Ogilvy of Deskford in 1722. The castle then passed into the hands of the Russells. The old castle was demolished and a mansion house designed by architect John Adam was built in 1750. The remains of the old castle are a scheduled ancient monument.
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Duff House was intended as the chief seat of William Duff, Lord Braco (later 1st Earl Fife). The astute businessman and politician wanted not only to succeed, but also to be seen to succeed. Architect William Adam rose to the challenge by designing an ambitious baroque mansion. Work began in 1735, with elaborate carved details mostly produced in Adam’s own stoneworks in Queensferry. Work stopped in 1741, long before the interior was finished. Copies of Adam’s original plans for the house hang in the study. These show the grand curved east and west wings that were never built. A bitter five-year court case found in favour of Adam. But he died before he could recoup the debt owed to him. Lord Braco felt so let down by the result that he never slept a night in the house. It was left to his heirs to complete the work.
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A tour of DuffHouse is very interesting. There are interesting stories about the artwork and furniture contained within.
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The castle is fenced and considered dangerous, but is clearly visible from the road.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles in Alvah and Forglen?
The area around the castles offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including options like the "Old Portsoy Harbour – Portsoy Harbour loop from Banff" (moderate, 25.9 km) or the "Bridge of Alvah – Eden Castle Ruins loop from Turriff" (moderate, 40.1 km). For hiking, popular trails include the "Bridge of Alvah – Fife Mausoleum, Duff House loop from Macduff" (moderate, 11.8 km) and the "Bridge of Alvah – Temple of Venus loop from Banff" (moderate, 14.3 km). You can explore more options for cycling, hiking, and road cycling on komoot.
Which castles are open to the public for interior visits?
Among the castles in the region, Delgatie Castle is open to the public daily, offering well-preserved interiors and a tangible connection to Scottish history. Duff House, while not a traditional castle, is also open and provides an interesting tour with stories about its artwork and furniture. Other sites like Inchdrewer Castle and Carnousie Castle are privately owned with no public interior access, though Inchdrewer can be observed from public rights of way.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit in Alvah and Forglen?
Yes, Delgatie Castle is considered family-friendly and offers a tearoom. Duff House and Banff Castle and Gardens are also listed as family-friendly historical sites, providing engaging experiences for all ages.
Which castles offer the most scenic views or are set in beautiful landscapes?
Eden Castle Ruins are noted for being a 'beautiful ruin in beautiful landscape'. Inchdrewer Castle, though privately owned, offers commanding views over Banff Bay and the surrounding golden fields, making it worth observing from public rights of way. Boyne Castle Ruins are described as 'superb' and 'hidden in the forest', suggesting a scenic, secluded setting.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in Alvah and Forglen?
While specific seasonal recommendations for all castles are not provided, the region's outdoor activities, such as hiking and cycling, are generally best enjoyed during milder weather. Spring and summer offer pleasant conditions for exploring ruins and castle grounds. For indoor attractions like Delgatie Castle, opening hours are consistent from January to December, making it accessible year-round.
Can I visit the castles in Alvah and Forglen with my dog?
Information on dog-friendliness varies by site. While some castle grounds or nearby walking trails may be suitable for dogs, it's always best to check individual castle policies before visiting, especially for interior access. Many outdoor routes in the area, such as those for hiking and cycling, are generally dog-friendly, but always keep dogs on a lead and clean up after them.
Are there cafes or tearooms at or near the castles?
Yes, Delgatie Castle features the 'Laird's Kitchen' Tearoom, which is open daily and serves drinks, snacks, and light meals. This provides a convenient option for refreshments during your visit.
What historical significance do the castles in Alvah and Forglen hold?
The castles in this region boast a rich history. Delgatie Castle dates back to 1049 and has been the ancestral seat of Clan Hay for 650 years. Inchdrewer Castle, a 16th-century L-plan tower house, has a turbulent past, including attacks by Covenanters and a devastating fire. Banff Castle, originally a 12th-century motte and bailey, was visited by King Edward I and played a role in the Wars of Scottish Independence. These sites offer insights into centuries of Scottish heritage and architectural evolution.
Is parking available at the castles in Alvah and Forglen?
Parking availability varies by location. For Boyne Castle Ruins, parking is limited as access is from country roads. For other sites like Delgatie Castle, dedicated parking is typically available for visitors. It's advisable to check specific access details for each castle you plan to visit.
What are the most popular castle ruins to explore in the area?
The most popular castle ruin is Boyne Castle Ruins, known for its impressive stonework hidden in the forest. Another must-see is Eden Castle Ruins, where one of its 16th-century towers still stands at approximately 13 meters high, with the foundation of the second tower also visible, allowing visitors to visualize its former grandeur.
Are there any hidden gem castles in Alvah and Forglen?
While not explicitly a 'hidden gem' in terms of public access, Inchdrewer Castle is a significant 16th-century L-plan tower house that, despite being privately owned, offers a striking silhouette and historical importance. Its strong, cut stones and defensive features are worth observing from public rights of way, providing a glimpse into a less-frequented but historically rich site. More information on Inchdrewer Castle can be found here.
Most popular attractions around Alvah And Forglen
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