Castle Fraser

Castle Fraser is a grand Z-plan castle near Kemnay in Aberdeenshire. It stands in over 300 acres of landscaped grounds, woodland and farmland, including a 19th-century walled kitchen garden. Archaeological evidence shows an older square tower from around the 15th or 16th century within the current structure. The castle is a Category A listed building and its grounds appear in the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes in Scotland. It is one of the most elaborate examples of its type and among the grandest of the 'Castles of Mar'. Construction began in 1575 by Michael Fraser, the 6th Laird, and was completed in 1636. The castle was a joint effort over decades by master masons John Bell of Midmar and Thomas Leiper. In the late 18th century, Elyza Fraser modernised the castle in a classical style, adding a new south entrance and sash windows. She also redesigned the grounds and built an impressive octagonal stable block. Between 1820 and 1850, Charles Fraser reconstructed the interiors with architects John Smith and William Burn, creating spaces like the Regency-style Library. Visitors find a family home atmosphere with original contents including Fraser family portraits, furniture and collections. The interiors show all periods of the castle’s history, from the Medieval stone-vaulted Great Hall to the Regency Dining Room. The grounds feature sweeping lawns, woodlands and the restored walled kitchen garden. Castle Fraser has appeared as a backdrop in the 2006 film The Queen, starring Dame Helen Mirren. The National Trust for Scotland now cares for the castle and its surroundings.