Drumtochty Castle

Drumtochty Castle stands three kilometres north-west of Auchenblae in Aberdeenshire. Built in 1812, it is a neo-gothic castellated mansion designed by James Gillespie Graham. The original plans were extended around 1815 by Aberdeen City Architect John Smith. Further additions followed in the 1830s under Gillespie Graham’s direction. The castle sits on the southern edge of Drumtochty Forest, surrounded by woodland. The castle has served many purposes over the centuries. It was bought by engineer James Gammell in 1822. During the Second World War, the Norwegian government-in-exile used it as a boarding school for refugee children. In 1947, Robert and Elizabeth Langlands opened a boys’ preparatory school there, which closed in 1971. Historic Scotland listed the building as a category A structure in 1972. Today, Drumtochty Castle is a luxury wedding venue. A major restoration by Charlie and Dot Anderson returned the property to its historic condition. It is now managed by Nikki Curran and Tamsin Davidson. The castle’s grounds include views over the surrounding forest, and its interiors feature restored gothic details.