Heritage Britain

Places to Visit in Banff, Aberdeenshire


Duff House, Banff

Duff House

Banff
Aberdeenshire
AB45 3SX
Tel: +44(0)1261 818181
Fax: +44(0)1261 818900
Email: click here
Duff House online: information and bookings

The north-east corner of Scotland, incorporating Banffshire and part of Aberdeenshire, is unknown to many but contains treasures awaiting discovery by the discriminating traveller.

One of the treasures is Duff House adjacent to the ancient and royal burgh of Banff and its near neighbour the burgh of Macduff. The House stands within wooded parkland near the spot where the River Deveron flows into the Moray Firth. With the sea on the north and the tree-clad Deveron Valley on the south Duff House has a dramatic and varied setting.

Duff House was designed by William Adam in the manner of the grand baroque and built between 1735-40 as a country seat for the Earls Fife. The House was used by succeeding generations of the Duff Family until 1906 when the 6th Earl, now the 1st Duke of Fife, presented the House to the burghs of Banff and Macduff for their mutual benefit.

Throughout the 20th century the House has been a hotel, sanatorium, prisoner of war camp and billet for British, Polish and Norwegian troops. After lying empty and derelict for several decades after the Second World War, the House was restored to its former glory and is now run as an important heritage site and cultural arts centre by Aberdeenshire Council in partnership with the National Galleries of Scotland and Historic Scotland. The outstanding collections consist of furniture, including chairs by Chippendale, tapestries and paintings by artists such as Sir Henry Raeburn and El Greco. Special exhibitions, outdoor events, lectures and concerts are held at advertised times throughout the year. With extensive grounds and woodland walks by the River Deveron you will find a day is not enough. Other things to do and see in the area are the whisky, castle and gallery trails, scenic coastal routes and towns. Visit the Duff House Royal Golf Course adjacent to Duff House, the Macduff Marine Aquarium and the Museum of Scottish Light Houses at Fraserburgh.

Duff House, Banff

Facilities
Historic House, Gardens, Tea Room, Picnic Area, Children, Car Park, Private Group Tours, School Tours Available, Tea Room, Gift Shop, Woodland Walks

Weddings and Conferences
Wedding Ceremonies Duff House is a romantic, fairy-tale venue for a wedding ceremony. Many couples have already enjoyed sharing their marriage with guests in the unique, magical atmosphere. Each ceremony, religious or civil is tailored specifically to the requirements of the bride and groom.

Marriage ceremonies are held in the South Drawing Room on the second floor of Duff House, where there is a Grand Piano. The North Drawing Room is used by the bridal group for a celebratory glass of wine after the ceremony. Remaining guests enjoy a wine reception in the Long Gallery whilst photography takes place.

Opening Times
Opening Times
April-October
Daily from 11am to 5pm
November- March
Thursday to Sunday from 11am to 4pm

Directions
Located 45 miles north of Aberdeen

In case of alteration, please check prices, opening times and any specific important information before booking or visiting

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