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Kildrummy is one of the finest
castle ruins in the north of Scotland. The greatest part of the surviving ruins date from the
13th century and were probably erected by an Earl of Mar.
Kildrummy Castle Historical Facts
A path from the car park leads to the entrance
gateway, reached by a bridge over the barbican. An English mason, being similar to that at
Harlech in Wales may have built the gatehouse. There are another four great towers to the
castle, built onto the wall of enceinte, creating a vast shield shaped
fortress.
The Warden’s Tower is the most
complete, the Snow Tower having collapsed in 1805. Between the two is the ruin
of the great gall, which was about 65ft long.
The former chapel was a striking building, evidenced
by the lancet windows of one gable, which still survives. The need for an easterly orientation
resulting in a projection outwith the line of the castle wall. A postern gate allowed an exit
to fetch water.
Kildrummy
Castle remained in Mar hands until 1435 when James I took
over the castle. It was then kept as a royal castle and administered by a constable. In 1507
the estates were granted to Lord Elphinstone and remained in his family’s hands until 1626 when
they were acquired by the Erskine Earls of Mar.
The Kildrummy
Castle was finally abandoned in 1716 when the Earl of Mar
escaped to France following his failed Jacobite rebellion. In 1898 James Ogston who did some
stabilisation work and removal of debris acquired the ruins. He died in 1931 and is
commemorated by a plaque on the chapel gable. His niece placed the castle in care in
1951.
Kildrummy Castle Map&Location
Kildrummy Castle Address: Overvilla, Huntly AB54 7XT, United Kingdom. get help
with directions using the mpa provided below:
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