Driving Through the Cairngorms? Do Not Skip Braemar Castle
- Jenn & Leon
- 11 hours ago
- 11 min read
Braemar Castle was our first stop as we drove deeper into the Cairngorms before continuing on toward Balmoral Castle, the iconic royal residence just 9 miles away on the old military road through the national park.
It was not somewhere we had planned to spend long, just a quick stop along the route. But like many places in Scotland, it had other ideas.
Set against the epic open highland landscapes, the castle feels both isolated and deeply connected to its surroundings.
By all means, it is less grand than Edinburgh Castle, where we had recently visited, and a little less romantic than the other castle ruins we had seen on our very first road trip through Scotland.
At the time we were there, which was prior to its recent restoration, it felt unloved, worn, and a little underwhelming. A castle, shaped by conflict and control, battling for its very survival.
We didn't go inside, but standing beneath its tired towers and walking the grounds was enough to give us a sense that there was just something about the place. We just couldn't quite put our finger on it.
We soon learned that Braemar Castle has a fascinating 400-year history that has shifted direction many times, from power to abandonment.
And what makes the story interesting (for us anyway) is that we were one of the last people to see it in the state we did back in 2019.
This castle had a modern-day battle to fight, a monumental one, driven by a community determined to preserve it for future generations.
By 2024 it was a battle won, and today, this restored historic building is now the only community-run castle in Scotland.
In this post, we share why Braemar Castle is a worthwhile stop in the Cairngorms, its fascinating Jacobite history, what makes it unique among Scottish castles, and what to expect if you visit, even if you are just passing through on a road trip.
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Our Highlights
Stopping at this castle was more an opportunistic venture rather than a destination. We had our eyes on Balmoral and did not really expect much from Braemar.
The castle appeared almost unexpectedly through the trees and drew our attention immediately, especially with the mountains opening up around it.
We had read about its star-shaped design, and that unique feature was what we found the most attractive about it. As we parked up and walked up the footpath, you could clearly make out the distinctive shape of the curtain walls.
The star-shaped outer wall was designed to eliminate "blind spots" for soldiers defending the castle, allowing for efficient, cross-directional gunfire, known as interlocking fire. Nearby Corgarff Castle also features a similar design.
The seasonal flowers and scenic setting really helped the castle, but honestly, it was in a sorry state, and we were pretty underwhelmed when we got to the top of the mound.
With its rendered finish, it did not have the same historical feel one might have expected. The poor state of the castle seemed more like neglect rather than decay, and this was reflected in the empty state of the main courtyard: just a couple of benches, no signage, and almost nobody around.
It was perhaps this that made us feel like we did not want to go inside. It just didn't seem like there was much going on. And perhaps, at that time in 2019, our instincts were right.
We took a fairly brisk walk around the perimeter, which did not take a great deal of time. It all felt a little unwanted, neglected even, and there was nothing else around aside from the spectacular landscape.
With all that being said, the difference you will see today is nothing short of incredible. The castle has been transformed into a gleaming white beacon, with just shy of 2 million pounds being raised to renovate the walls and roof of the structure.
Inside, there are now many restored rooms to visit, and the local community now runs the castle, the first arrangement of its kind in Scotland. Oh how we would love to visit again now! And perhaps we will...
Read on for more on how it looks today, a peek inside, and all you need to know before you go, including ticket prices, opening times, visitor tips, and our experience rating.
The History of Braemar Castle
Braemar Castle’s story begins in 1628, when John Erskine, the Earl of Mar (widely considered the oldest extant peerage in the UK), built a hunting lodge here. What stands today evolved from that early structure into a fortified tower house, designed less for comfort and more for control.
Its purpose was clear from the beginning. This was a castle built to assert authority over the surrounding clans and secure the region during a time when power in Scotland was constantly shifting.
As the Jacobite uprisings unfolded in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, Braemar became entangled in one of the most defining conflicts in Scottish history.
It was used by Jacobite forces, then later seized by government troops after the failed Rising of 1715. From that point, it became a garrison, occupied by redcoat soldiers tasked with suppressing rebellion across the Highlands.
This transition from rebel stronghold to government outpost reflects the wider transformation of Scotland during that period. The castle’s walls, once associated with resistance, became tools of control.
Over time, its military importance faded, and the castle passed through various hands, eventually becoming associated with Clan Farquharson.
For a period, it shifted again in purpose, moving away from conflict and into a more residential role, even hosting members of the British royal family during visits to the nearby Braemar Gathering.
Both Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II are known to have visited, and it is believed that a young Prince Charles and Princess Anne spent time here as children.
Despite these royal connections, Braemar never achieved the same prominence as nearby Balmoral. Instead, it remained something quieter, more local.
By the late 20th century, the castle had fallen into decline. After the Farquharson family moved out in the 1980s, it was left largely unused. By the early 2000s, it stood empty, deteriorating, and at risk of being lost altogether.
That could have been the end of its story, but instead, it became the beginning of a new chapter.
In 2007, the Braemar Community Trust secured a 50-year lease on the castle, taking on full responsibility for its restoration. What followed was a huge effort involving funding, volunteers, and years of work to stabilize and revive the structure.
Key restoration projects included repairing the roof, chimneys, and turrets, as well as restoring the castle’s distinctive white harling, the exterior finish that gives it that striking appearance today.
This alone required significant funding, with over £1.6 million raised through grants and community support.
The castle reopened to the public in 2008, with King Charles III, then the Duke of Rothesay, officially marking the occasion.
After further major restoration work, it reopened again in 2024, looking closer to its original form than it had in decades.
Today, Braemar Castle stands not just as a relic of Scotland’s past but as a symbol of what can be preserved when a community refuses to let history disappear. Could it be more 'Closer Lives?!'
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10 Interesting Facts About Braemar Castle
1. Braemar Castle was built in 1628 on the site of an earlier hunting lodge used by the Earl of Mar. The location was carefully chosen for both its strategic position and its access to surrounding Highland land used for hunting and control.
2. Its design includes a five-story tower and star-shaped defensive wall, built for control rather than luxury. Unlike more decorative castles, every element of its structure was intended to strengthen defense and assert authority over the area.
3. It played a role in the Jacobite uprisings before being occupied by government troops. This shift highlights how quickly power could change hands in Scotland during one of its most politically unstable periods.
4. Redcoat soldiers used the castle as a garrison to suppress Highland resistance after 1715. From that point on, it became a symbol of government control rather than rebellion, marking a major turning point in its history.
5. The castle later became associated with Clan Farquharson, linking it to centuries of Highland heritage. Their long-standing connection helped shape the castle’s identity beyond its earlier military use.
6. Queen Victoria visited the castle while attending the nearby Braemar Gathering
This royal connection added a layer of prestige to what was otherwise a relatively understated Highland stronghold.
7. Members of the modern royal family, including Queen Elizabeth II, have also spent time here. It is even believed that a young Prince Charles and Princess Anne played at the castle during visits to the area.
8. By the early 2000s, the castle had fallen into serious disrepair and was at risk of being lost. Years of neglect left it looking worn and weathered, far from the striking structure you see today.
9. In 2007, the local community secured a lease and took over responsibility for restoring it. This marked a turning point, transforming the castle from a fading landmark into a shared community project.
10. Over £1.6 million was raised to restore the castle, including its iconic white exterior finish. The restoration of the harling alone dramatically changed its appearance, giving it that bright, almost glowing presence you notice from the road.
Ticket Information
If you want to go inside, Braemar Castle is typically open seasonally, with entry tickets available at the gate.
Prices are modest compared to larger Scottish castles, and guided or self-guided experiences are often included.
Adult ticket
£16.00
Child (5-15 years)
£8.00
Family (2 adults & up to 3 children)
£33.00
Historic House Membership
FREE
Concession (Student, Over 65, and Blue Light Card)
£14.00
Prices shown are in British pounds and subject to change at any time. See the official website for the most up-to-date information. Convert your currency here.
Open Hours & When to Go
Braemar Castle usually opens between spring and early autumn, with limited or no access during winter months.
The best time to visit is late spring to early autumn when the surrounding landscape is at its most vibrant. The daffodils in spring add an unexpected contrast to the rugged castle structure.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light and fewer visitors.
Grounds
Open all year round, 7 days a week
Castle
April (from 3rd April)
Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm
(Last Entry 4.30pm)
May - August
Daily 10am to 5pm
(Last Entry 4.30pm)
September*
Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm
(Last Entry 4.30pm)
October
Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm
(Last Entry 4.30pm)
* Closed for Braemar Gathering 5th September
How to Get There
Braemar Castle sits just outside the village of Braemar, deep within the Cairngorms National Park.
By Car
The most straightforward route is via the A93, one of Scotland’s most scenic drives.
● From Aberdeen: follow the A93 west through Ballater and into Braemar
● From Perth: take the A93 north through Glenshee
💡 If you are planning a wider route, this pairs perfectly with stops like Balmoral and the surrounding Highland viewpoints.
Car parking
There is a designated car park signposted off the A93. A £4 fee is charged from dawn to dusk, daily, via pay-and-display.
By Bus
Braemar Castle is situated on the A93 and is serviced by the 201 Stagecoach Bus route from Aberdeen Bus Station. The journey takes approximately 2 hrs 15 mins.
By Walking or Cycling
Braemar Castle is accessible via public roads for walking and cycling, although there are no designated cycle lanes.
Access has been improved further by the development of a path from the car park through the grounds to the castle.
⚠️ Note that there are no catering facilities on site. The village of Braemar is a short drive (or walk) from the Castle car park and offers a range of cafes and shops.
🎟️ Take a Road Trip Like We Did
The Cairngorms are best explored by car, especially if you want the freedom to stop at places like Braemar Castle along the way. Public transport is limited in this region, so renting a car is the easiest and most flexible way to experience the landscapes at your own pace.
Contact Information for Braemar Castle
Address
Braemar Castle, Braemar, Aberdeenshire, AB35 5XR
Phone
(+44) 01339 741219
Website
Tickets
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Where to Stay in Cairngorms
Braemar is a small village, but there are a few charming options nearby, along with more choices in Ballater and the wider Cairngorms area.
Staying nearby allows you to explore the area at a slower pace, rather than treating it as a quick stop.
Find places to stay near Braemar and the Cairngorms, or explore accommodation across the region with our hotel map:
Tips for Visiting
● Do not skip it just because you are not going inside; it is still worth it!
● Walk around the grounds for different viewpoints. They are well-maintained, and the views are picturesque.
● Combine it with nearby stops like Balmoral Castle or, indeed, a visit to the quaint town of Bramer.
● Always check seasonal opening times in advance as they are subject to change.
● Bring layers; the weather can change quickly in the Highlands. It can be particularly windy at any given time at the castle.
● There are no food or beverage facilities on site, but you can find a range of local shops, pubs, and cafes at Braemar village.
💡 Even a short stop here adds depth to your Cairngorms experience.
Our Experience Rating:
Braemar Castle
While we did not go inside Braemar Castle, it did not take away from the experience. We saw it before its gleaming restoration, and in hindsight, that kind of makes it even more special.
Learning about its history, Royal Family connections, and now community ownership has made Braemar a feather in our cap of castle explorations in the UK.
This is not a destination that demands hours of your time. It feels authentic, quiet, and connected to the land and community around it. It works best as part of a wider journey through the Cairngorms rather than a standalone attraction.
As we build our community here on Closer Lives, projects like Braemar Castle fit perfectly with our mission.
If you would like to donate and protect Braemar Castle for future generations, visit justgiving.com/charity/braemarcc
Routes like this showcase the raw beauty of Scotland, where historic castles, winding roads, and dramatic landscapes come together. For more destinations and travel inspiration, explore our Scotland travel guides.
🎟️ Consider Taking a Tour of the Scottish Highlands
The Cairngorms are best explored by car, giving you the freedom to stop at places like Braemar Castle along the way. If you prefer not to drive, broader Highlands tours from Edinburgh offer an alternative way to experience Scotland’s landscapes, though routes and stops may vary.
FAQ: Braemar Castle
Before planning your visit, here are some useful things to know about Braemar Castle and what to expect.
Is Braemar Castle worth visiting if you do not go inside?
Yes, the exterior, setting, and history alone make it worthwhile, especially as part of a Cairngorms road trip.
How long do you need at Braemar Castle?
Around 20 to 45 minutes is enough if you are just exploring the grounds and taking photos.
Is there parking at Braemar Castle?
Yes, there is a small car park close to the entrance, making it an easy stop.
Can you walk around the castle grounds for free?
In most cases, you can explore the surrounding area without entering the castle itself.
Is Braemar Castle near Balmoral Castle?
Yes, it is a short drive from Balmoral, making it easy to combine both.
What is Braemar Castle known for?
It is known for its Jacobite history and as the only community-run castle in Scotland.
When is the best time to visit Braemar Castle?
Spring through early autumn offers the best weather and access.
Is Braemar Castle family friendly?
Yes, especially the outdoor areas, which are easy to explore.
Are there facilities nearby?
Braemar Village has basic facilities, including cafes and shops.
Can you visit Braemar Castle year round?
Access is seasonal, so always check opening times before visiting.
Related Reads
If you are building a Scotland itinerary, these posts will help you connect the experiences:
Discover more historic stops like this in our Scotland travel blogs and guides
Plan your wider continental journey with our Europe travel hub
Continue deeper into Royal Deeside with our Balmoral Castle guide
Uncover one of Scotland’s most mysterious sites at Rosslyn Castle & Chapel
