Castle Fraser, located near Kemnay in the Aberdeenshire region of Scotland, is recognized as the most elaborate Z-plan castle in the country and one of the grandest 'Castles of Mar'. This architectural marvel stands as a testament to Scotland's rich history and heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
Castle Fraser is not just about the castle itself, but also about the vast expanse of over 300 acres of landscaped grounds, woodland, and farmland that surrounds it. This includes a walled kitchen garden from the 19th century, adding to the charm and historical significance of the place.
The National Trust for Scotland now opens Castle Fraser to visitors all year round, including the grounds and the walled garden. In 2019, the site welcomed 56,822 visitors, reflecting its popularity among tourists and locals alike.
History & Anthropology Castle Historic house Garden & Park
Monday | 10:30 – 16:30 |
Tuesday | 10:30 – 16:30 |
Wednesday | Closed |
Thursday | Closed |
Friday | 10:30 – 16:30 |
Saturday | 10:30 – 16:30 |
Sunday | 10:30 – 16:30 |
16 Oct–29 Oct, daily, 10.30–16.30
30 Oct–18 Dec, Fri–Mon, 10.30–16.00
19 Dec–4 Jan 2024, closed
5 Jan–29 Feb, Thu–Sun, 10.30–16.00
1 Mar–28 Mar, Fri–Tue, 10.30–16.00
29 Mar–14 Apr, daily, 10.30–16.30
15 Apr–30 Jun, Fri–Tue, 10.30–16.30
1 Jul–1 Sep, daily, 10.30–16.30
Sauchen, Sauchen
No exhibitions in Castle Fraser have been found.
Castle Fraser has 2 ratings.
Castle Fraser, located in Sauchen, Scotland, is a well-preserved 16th-century castle that offers visitors a glimpse into Scottish history and architecture. The castle's impressive exterior, with its intricate stonework and towering turrets, immediately captures attention. Inside, guests can explore the grand halls, period-furnished rooms, and winding staircases that showcase the castle's rich heritage.
Many visitors appreciate the informative guided tours, which provide insights into the Fraser family history and the castle's evolution over the centuries. The knowledgeable and friendly staff often receive praise for enhancing the experience with engaging stories and historical anecdotes.
The surrounding grounds are another highlight, featuring beautiful gardens, woodland walks, and a walled kitchen garden. These areas offer pleasant spaces for strolls and picnics, adding to the overall appeal of the site.
However, some visitors note that certain areas of the castle can feel a bit dark or cramped, which is typical of buildings from this era but may affect the experience for some. Additionally, a few reviews mention that the site can get busy during peak seasons, potentially impacting the peaceful atmosphere.
The on-site tearoom receives generally positive feedback for its selection of refreshments, though some find the prices a bit high. Accessibility might be an issue for visitors with mobility concerns, as the historic nature of the building means not all areas are easily navigable.
Overall, Castle Fraser provides a solid historical experience, blending architectural interest, scenic grounds, and educational value. It's a good representation of Scottish castle life and tends to satisfy most visitors interested in history and heritage sites.
We had a wonderful experience learning the history of the Fraser family. The rooms were all so well preserved and showed us how the family lived. It was much more than just a museum tour. The grounds were well maintained and beautiful to see. The staff were well informed and extremely helpful in assisting us with our needs. We think Castle Fraser should be included with the more standard castle tours. We visited it on our own and it was well worth the time and money.
Visited on 29 Aug 2024
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