While you're enjoying your stay with us, be sure to explore the rich history of Scotland through its magnificent castles, palaces, and historic homes. From royal residences to dramatic clifftop fortresses, our region offers some of Scotland's most impressive historic sites, all within an easy driving distance.
Nearby Historic Gems (Under 30 Minutes)
🏰 Glamis Castle
Former home of the late Queen Mother
Just a 20-minute drive from Craigellie, Glamis Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into centuries of Scottish history. Explore the grand rooms on a guided tour lasting about an hour, then wander through the beautiful gardens and grounds.
- Open: April to October (reduced hours in November & December)
- Amenities: Restaurant and gift shop
- Visit time: 2-3 hours
- Website: www.glamis-castle.co.uk
Within an Hour's Drive
🏰 Scone Palace
Ancient crowning place of Scottish kings
This magnificent palace (35 minutes from Craigellie) was the historic crowning place of Scottish monarchs. The impressive state rooms and beautiful gardens showcase the grandeur of Scotland's royal past.
- Open: April to October
- Amenities: Restaurant, outdoor café, gift shop
- Visit time: 3-4 hours (guided tour takes about 2 hours)
- Website: www.scone-palace.co.uk
🏰 Dunnottar Castle
Dramatic clifftop fortress
Perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking the North Sea, Dunnottar Castle (1 hour from Craigellie) offers breathtaking views and fascinating history. This well-preserved ruin has been a royal stronghold and wartime refuge.
- Open: Year-round (weather permitting)
- Amenities: Refreshment stand in summer; nearby restaurants in Stonehaven
- Visit time: 1-2 hours (self-guided with map)
- Website: www.dunnottarcastle.co.uk
🏰 Blair Castle
Highland gem with elegant interiors
Set in the heart of the Scottish Highlands (1 hour from Craigellie), Blair Castle features elegant rooms and extensive grounds that showcase the life of Scotland's aristocracy through the centuries.
- Open: March to October
- Amenities: Restaurant, gift shop
- Visit time: 2-3 hours (self-guided)
- Website: www.atholl-estates.co.uk/blair-castle
🏰 Balmoral Castle
The Royal Family's Scottish retreat
Experience a piece of royal life at Balmoral Castle, the private retreat of the British Royal Family. Located an hour from Craigellie, the castle offers visitors a glimpse into royal Highland living.
- Open: April to July, select dates in October-December
- Amenities: Restaurant, café, gift shop, paid parking
- Visit time: 2-3 hours (standard tickets include grounds and Ballroom; more extensive tours available in summer months)
- Website: www.balmoralcastle.com
🏰 Braemar Castle
Community-restored historic treasure
Recently reopened after a decade-long restoration, this community-run castle (55 minutes from Craigellie) showcases period rooms and fascinating royal and military history.
- Open: April to October (grounds open year-round)
- Amenities: Dedicated parking, cafés available in Braemar village
- Visit time: 1-2 hours (self-guided)
- Website: www.braemarcastle.co.uk
🏰 House of Dun
Elegant Georgian mansion
This beautiful Georgian home (50 minutes from Craigellie) offers a glimpse into 18th-century aristocratic life with its preserved rooms, art collection, and tranquil gardens.
- Open: Year-round
- Amenities: Café, shop, museum, paid parking (free for National Trust members)
- Visit time: 2-3 hours (guided tour about 1 hour 15 minutes)
- Website: www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/house-of-dun
🏰 Brechin Castle
Historic clan seat
Dating back to the 13th century, Brechin Castle (40 minutes from Craigellie) is the ancestral home of the Earl of Dalhousie and chief of the Ramsay clan.
- Open: May & June only
- Amenities: Walled garden tearoom (pre-booking recommended for groups), country park café, garden centre, and children's play area
- Visit time: 1-2 hours
🏰 Falkland Palace
Royal Stuart retreat
Once a favourite retreat of the Stuart monarchs, Falkland Palace (1 hour from Craigellie) features beautiful architecture and peaceful gardens that showcase royal life from centuries past.
- Open: March to October
- Amenities: Gift shop (National Trust property)
- Visit time: 2 hours (guided tour about 1 hour)
- Parking: Public parking in Falkland village (limited during peak times)
- Website: www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/falkland-palace
Worth the Extra Drive (Over 1 Hour)
🏰 Stirling Castle
Birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots
This magnificent castle (1 hour 20 minutes from Craigellie) offers stunning architecture, fascinating exhibits, and panoramic views. It played a crucial role in Scotland's battles for independence.
- Open: Year-round
- Amenities: Café, gift shop, museum shop
- Visit time: 3-4 hours (guided tour about 90 minutes)
- Parking: Limited paid parking on castle esplanade; Park & Ride available (except Sundays)
- Tip: Discounted entry if you arrive by public transport and show your ticket
If you would like more information on planning your trip to Craigellie, we're happy to help you make the most of your stay.