Venue Description

With elaborate heraldry, carved fireplaces and refined décor, this palatial residence was a declaration of the power and wealth of the noble Gordon family. It stands on the site of a motte and bailey castle built in about 1190. Robert the Bruce granted Huntly to the Gordons after the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. There were many royal visits, although in 1594 James VI had part of the tower house blown up after suppressing the rebellion. The 5th Earl of Huntly died here after suffering a stroke on a football pitch. Opening times: 29 Mar to 30 Sept: Daily, 10am to 4.30pm (last entry 3.30pm). 1 Oct to 28 Mar: Daily except Thur & Fri, 10am to 4pm (last entry 3pm). We recommend booking online to guarantee entry. Please note there is currently no access to the top of the tower.

Accessibility

Approach to site The main entrance door has a ramp 8m long with a gradient of 1:12 leading up to it. Visitor centre The shop has step free access. The outer buildings are all at ground level, though there are some steps, ramps, gravel and cobble surfaces. The main door has a metal handrail, and opens onto stairs leading to the kitchen. Access to the basement is down a large stone staircase of 25 steps with a rope handrail. There are a further six wooden, and four stone, steps down to the prison. There are 13 large wide steps, with metal handrail, from the main castle entrance to the ground floor. 26 stone steps with metal handrail lead to the first floor; and 33 wooden steps with a handrail lead to the second floor. From the servants’ quarters on the ground floor to the top of the tower there is a narrow spiral stair case of 92 steps with a rope handrail.

Access Statement

Access Statement Link: http://www.historicenvironment.scot/access

Toilets

There is an adapted toilet near the castle, along a gravel path.

Staff

Information about the staff has not been added for this venue.