Castles
One of the biggest requests we get from guests is to visit some of our castles. Scotland is famous for its castles and lucky enough to still have many in good order and not depleted of their treasures as one so often finds on the Continent. The European Napoleonic code where every generation has to split the contents of their parent’s home has never been adopted in the UK where particularly in Scotland a strict primogeniture still exists where the eldest son inherits everything. It’s hard on siblings but it has kept our great estates intact and the contents of their castles in situ. Many are literally filled with treasures which have been collected over many centuries.
Auchterarder House is well located for you to be able to visit some of Scotland’s most important castles and historic homes. Edinburgh Castle, the historical fortress (still an army garrison), royal palace and important museum is a great castle to kick off your castle exploring. Another hugely important one in Scottish history is 14th century Glamis castle, home to the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne, childhood home of the late HM The Queen Mother and the setting for Macbeth. The 3rd one at this level and close to the house we must mention is Stirling Castle, which is one of Scotland’s grandest, due to its imposing position and amazing architecture. Despite being attacked or besieged 16 times, the castle still sits very proud atop volcanic rock and within its halls you’ll discover an amazing history.
Some guests enjoy heading over to Aberdeenshire and Royal Deeside where there is a wonderful collection of smaller castles like Crathes, Craigievar, Drum, Brodie, Braemar and Fyvie. Some of these were built during the reign of Queen Victoria by aristocrats keen to live close to her highland castle Balmoral. If guests prefer the stately home look, an easy drive from the house is Dalmeny House with it’s amazing collection of Napoleonic memorabilia and the very impressive 17th Century Hopetoun House, which is often referred to as Scotland’s finest stately home and which is filled with treasures and set in a wonderful park. The Georgian creations of Robert Adam are also a huge draw and these include Mellerstain House, Culzean Castle and Dumfries House, which Prince Charles rescued for the nation and kept intact it’s unique collection of Chippendale furniture.
If your interested in staying in our luxury private stately home in the Scottish Highlands whilst visiting these incredible castles, please contact us here.
Experience
Tracy, New York City, USA
Get in touch hereAuchterarder House is fantastically located in the heart of Scotland and guests can access all these activities with ease. Some are virtually on your doorstep whilst others are all within an hour’s drive. The roads within central Scotland are excellent and some are dual carriage way (just be careful of the speed cameras). Sat Nav works well in most areas and we can provide directions/maps as required.
Edinburgh, St Andrews and Glasgow are also within an hour away and it’s fun to leave the main roads when possible to explore the countryside and get up into the hills. Even these smaller roads are generally well sign posted and you shouldn’t get lost but even if you do, that’s part of the fun! You might come across a little country inn where you can stop for a wee dram and you will definitely come across some amazing views!
Overview
I
Accommodation for 20 people in 10 double ensuite bedrooms including one ground floor bedroom with fully disabled bathroom. Four of the very large bedrooms each have sofa beds for children if needed.
II
There is additional staff accommodation available in the Front Lodge.
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Drawing room, library, dining room, inner hall, reception hall, cinema room, gym, sauna, shoot room, conservatory & billiard room.
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Electric gates offer a high level of security to the property, which is surrounded by high trees and shrubbery, so very private.
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20 acres of beautifully kept gardens and grounds, including a barbecue area.
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A charming lochan (Scottish for small lake) stocked with brown trout. Guests are welcome to try their luck with a fishing rod.
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Glasgow and Edinburgh International Airports under 1 hours drive away.