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Places to Visit in Banffshire, Moray
Ballindalloch Castle
Ballindalloch
Banffshire
Moray
AB37 9AX
Tel: +44(0)1807 500206
Fax: +44(0)1807 500210
Email: click here
Ballindalloch Castle online: information and bookings
Ballindalloch Castle, set amidst magnificent grounds and gardens, is one of Scotland’s most romantic castles. It is also, first and foremost, the much-loved family home of the Macpherson-Grants, and one of the very few privately-owned castles to be lived in continuously by its original family.
The exact year of its origin is unknown, but the date ‘1546’ is carved on a stone lintel in one of the bedrooms. Built originally on the traditional Z-plan, the Castle has subsequently been greatly altered and enlarged, and exemplifies the transition from stark 16th-century tower house to the elegant and comfortable country house of today.
There are many fine architectural features, from the handsome circular stair tower (circa 1546) which reveals the true antiquity of the Castle, to the ‘Umbrella Hall’ with its unusual design and delightful fan vaulting which was designed by Thomas Mackenzie as part of the renovation of 1850.
The Castle is home to some important collections, among them the fine Spanish paintings acquired by Sir John Macpherson-Grant while he was secretary to the Legation in Lisbon in 1850. They are acknowledged to be the most important private collection of 17th-century Spanish paintings in Scotland. Sir John and his predecessor, Colonel William Grant, were two of the main collectors of the books in the Library; it contains about 2,500 volumes and is said to be one of the best country house libraries in Scotland.
The surrounding grounds and gardens provide a variety of tree-lined walks, and there are facilities for dog-walking, a children’s play area, the Castle Tea-Room and Gift Shop and a challenging 9-hole, 18-tee golf course designed by Donald Steel.Open to visitors from Good Friday until the end of September, Ballindalloch Castle is also an ideal venue for small private functions, weddings, product launches and corporate events throughout the year.
Facilities
• Historic House
• Gardens
• Tea Room
• Car Park,
• Private Group Tours
• School Tours Available
In case of alteration, please check prices, opening times and any specific important information before booking or visiting
