Drum Castle
Explore Scotland's ancient history at Drum Castle, a 13th-century tower house with lavish interiors, a private chapel, and enchanting woodland trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gardens bloom, fewer crowds
Drum Castle
Best Time
Gardens bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Scotland's ancient history at Drum Castle, a 13th-century tower house with lavish interiors, a private chapel, and enchanting woodland trails.
"This castle is definitely worth a visit. The gardens are beautiful, blooming with flowers on our visit in August."
🎯 Guided Tours are Key
Interior access is tour-only. Guides are engaging & informative!
👟 Comfy Shoes for Trails
Explore the gardens & woods! Essential for enjoying the estate.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
13th-Century Tower House
Castle Interior
Step back in time in one of Scotland's oldest tower houses, a testament to medieval architecture and history.
Private Chapel
Castle Grounds
Discover the exquisite 16th-century chapel, a serene and historically significant space within the castle estate.
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Old Wood of Drum
Woodland Trails
Wander through ancient oak trees, some dating back to the 1700s, offering a peaceful escape and natural beauty.
Walled Gardens
Castle Grounds
Stroll through beautifully maintained gardens, a riot of color and scent, especially vibrant in late summer.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Embrace the Outdoors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Guided Tours are Key
Interior access is tour-only. Guides are engaging & informative!
👟 Comfy Shoes for Trails
Explore the gardens & woods! Essential for enjoying the estate.
📸 Photos Allowed Inside
Capture the history! Most areas permit photography.
🚗 Easy Parking Available
Ample parking on-site, convenient for all visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Guided Tours are Key
Interior access is tour-only. Guides are engaging & informative!
👟 Comfy Shoes for Trails
Explore the gardens & woods! Essential for enjoying the estate.
📸 Photos Allowed Inside
Capture the history! Most areas permit photography.
🚗 Easy Parking Available
Ample parking on-site, convenient for all visitors.
🌸 Garden Delights
Visit in bloom for bees, butterflies, and stunning roses.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Drum Castle for its stunning architecture, fascinating history, and beautiful grounds. The guided tours are a highlight, with guides often described as humorous, educational, and engaging. The gardens and woodland trails offer a peaceful escape, though some gardeners might prefer larger collections elsewhere.
"Very cool. Like all national trust for Scotland castles in the North East it’s a beauty in some of the best looking land in the world. This was has a few extras that make it a bit more special mostly the private chapel and the wood play ground. But has the usual stunning architecture, interesting owners, fascinating history, great furniture, walled garden, gift shop and great staff. A beautiful drive to get there as well."
Darren Findlay
"We had a wonderful tour led by Cameron. Humorous and educational. Engaging and just long enough without dragging on.
We would’ve liked the ability to go self-guided; however, this was a great experience overall."
Kara W
"This castle is definitely worth a visit. The gardens are beautiful, blooming with flowers on our visit in August, and humming with bees and lovely butterflies. The access to the interior is by guided tour only, but it is well worth doing the 45 minute tour. Our guide was informative, and entertaining. Entry and parking is free for NT members."
Liz Glen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Drum Castle is conveniently located about a 27-minute drive from Aberdeen. Follow signs for the A93 towards Banchory. Parking is available on-site and is free for National Trust for Scotland members.
While public transport options exist to reach the general area, driving is the most straightforward way to access Drum Castle. Check local bus schedules for routes serving Drumoak or Banchory.
Drum Castle offers good parking facilities, making it easy for visitors to access the site. Parking is free for National Trust for Scotland members.
The surrounding Aberdeenshire countryside is beautiful for cycling. While there aren't specific cycle paths directly to the castle, you can plan a scenic route through the local roads.
Absolutely! Drum Castle is one of ten must-visit castles in Aberdeenshire, making it a perfect addition to any castle-hopping itinerary in the region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the castle interior is by guided tour only. It's recommended to book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee your entry.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official National Trust for Scotland website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and tour schedules.
Yes, entry and parking are free for National Trust for Scotland members.
The interior of Drum Castle can only be accessed via a guided tour. While some visitors prefer self-guided exploration, the tours are highly praised for their informative and engaging content.
Drum Castle hosts various events throughout the year, including Easter Egg Hunts and whisky tastings. Keep an eye on their schedule for unique experiences.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the 13th-century tower house, the 16th-century chapel, wander through the beautiful walled gardens, and enjoy the woodland trails of the Old Wood of Drum. +1
Yes, Drum Castle offers a woodland playground and often hosts family-friendly events like Easter Egg Hunts, making it enjoyable for kids.
Photography is generally allowed inside Drum Castle, allowing you to capture its historical interiors and furnishings.
The castle has some stairs, but they are not tiny spiral staircases. The grounds and gardens are generally accessible, though some woodland paths may be uneven.
Dating back to the 13th century, Drum Castle has witnessed centuries of Scottish history, including tales of medieval splendor and Jacobite intrigue. It was bestowed upon the Irvine family.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Drum Castle has facilities including a cafe where you can enjoy refreshments after your visit.
Picnicking is a great way to enjoy the beautiful grounds. There are lovely spots within the estate to relax and enjoy your own food.
The nearby town of Banchory offers various pubs and restaurants if you're looking for more extensive dining options after your castle visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The castle exterior, the walled gardens in bloom, and the ancient trees in the Old Wood of Drum offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The interior also provides unique shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted at National Trust for Scotland properties to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check their specific guidelines.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the castle and gardens. Midday can be good for capturing the vibrant colors of the gardens.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the castle interior tours are informative, consider the length for very young children. However, the expansive grounds, including the gardens and woodland trails, offer plenty of space for exploration and adventure. The chance to see a real castle often sparks imagination and excitement in kids.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
Beyond the castle itself, the estate's ancient woodlands and beautifully maintained gardens add to the historical and cultural experience, showcasing the enduring landscape that has shaped the region.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will appreciate the tranquil woodland trails and the opportunity to observe the wildlife, such as bees and butterflies, that frequent the gardens. The Aberdeenshire landscape surrounding the castle also provides stunning backdrops for photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
+1Visitors can explore the lavishly furnished rooms within the mansion, gaining insight into the domestic life of its former inhabitants. The private chapel, built in the 16th century, is a particularly noteworthy feature, offering a serene space for reflection and a glimpse into the religious practices of the past. The guided tours are highly praised for bringing these historical narratives to life, making the experience both educational and engaging.
Beyond the castle walls, the Old Wood of Drum provides a natural historical context. These ancient oak trees, some dating back to the 1700s, have stood sentinel over the estate for centuries. Walking among them offers a sense of continuity and a connection to the enduring landscape that has shaped the castle's story.
Exploring the Grounds and Gardens
For those who enjoy a more natural setting, the Old Wood of Drum offers enchanting woodland trails. These ancient woodlands are home to impressive oak trees, some of which have stood for over 300 years. A walk through this serene environment provides a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature.
There's also a woodland playground that makes Drum Castle a fantastic destination for families. It provides a space for children to play and burn off energy while parents can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Events and Unique Experiences
+1These events offer a unique way to experience the castle and its grounds, often providing a different perspective or a more interactive visit. For instance, the whisky tastings offer a chance to explore local spirits in a truly atmospheric setting.
Keep an eye on the National Trust for Scotland's schedule for Drum Castle to discover upcoming events that might align with your visit, adding an extra layer of excitement to your trip.
Social
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