Leslie Castle Opens the Door to History, Whisky and Some Great Scottish Villages
There are many reasons to visit Aberdeenshire. Not only is there amazing scenery to explore but there is so much history and culture to discover. But where could you stay to enjoy this wonderful region? We have thought of that too and have the ideal place – Leslie Castle.
Leslie Castle is a wonderful place to book a stay for those looking to enjoy the greats outdoors in the magnificent Aberdeenshire countryside. Located near Auchleven, just 28 miles from Aberdeen, the originally-Baronial castle is perfectly situated to enjoy a wealth of cultural and historic activities, all within easy reach.
Located in beautiful private grounds, Leslie Castle is the ancestral seat of the Leslie Family. The current Baron of Leslie is waiting to welcome you into his historic B&B. Enjoy the unique charm, comfort and peacefulness that come with a stay at this Baronial castle. Use it as a luxurious base from which to experience your Aberdeenshire adventure.
The Castle Trail
This spectacular county has been home to over 260 castles, with more castles per hectare than anywhere else in the British Isles. Here is a selection to help plan your memorable castle trail.
The following castles make a loose circuit around Leslie Castle, all of which are worth a visit and feature a mix of fully-renovated properties and castle ruins. Perhaps dip into each of them over a couple of days in a similar order to the below:
Begin at Huntley Castle on your doorstep then up to 11th-century Delgatie to view its magnificent painted ceilings, then across to Fyvie Castle with its impressive stately facade. Don’t forget to take in the incredible views along the way. Follow this with the ruinous Tolquhon Castle and then down to the many-turreted Castle Fraser. To the west, you’ll discover the colourful fairytale Craigievar Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic and best-loved castles. If castle ruins are on your wish-list, complete your trail heading northwest to Kildrummie and Balvenie.
Perfect for one-day castle trails, try venturing to either the south-east or south-west.
The former takes you to the historic coastal ruins of Dunnottar Castle, then back to the lush landscaped settings of Crathes Castle and Drum Castle. Both are located in the town of Banchory, near where the Feugh River meets the River Dee.
Alternatively, the latter will incorporate the fortress of Braemar and the stark white exterior of Corgarff Castle, boldly set against rolling green hills. A castle trail in Aberdeenshire is not complete without taking in the magnificent Balmoral. The county's most famous castle and the summer residence of the Royal Family since the 19th century, Balmoral was described by Queen Victoria as “my dear paradise in the Highlands”.
Leslie Castle is a perfect base
Arriving back at your own paradise, why not prolong your historic castle experience during your stay at Leslie Castle? All confirmed bookings via Celtic Castles will be offered a complimentary tour of the castle; there is no requirement to pre-book this and the owners will arrange the best time with you when you arrive at the castle.
Read a recent testimonial from previous guests of Leslie Castle who delighted in its magic:
"Our stay was a dream come true! Beautiful, authentic grounds and structure. Proprietors, Nicola and John, were gracious, calm, well informed, and passionate about their stewardship of this jewel. Food and beverages were excellent and well presented. Could not ask for more. Oh, and two turrets in our room. Wonderful."
Patricia, USA
Settle down for the night in one of Leslie Castle’s six luxurious bedrooms. Have yourself a restful night’s sleep before continuing your journey through Aberdeenshire. Wake up to a delicious and varied Scottish breakfast, complimentary to all guests, to set you up for another day of activities and adventure.
Whisky Distillery Tours
A stay in Aberdeenshire isn’t complete without a visit to a whisky distillery – and you’ve plenty of choice in this eclectic region of Scotland! The Speyside Distillery Trail encompasses a huge selection of whisky distilleries, some of which are listed below:
- Black Bull Whisky
- The Glen Dronach Distillery
- Glen Garioch Distillery
- Benriach Distillery
- Macduff Distillery
- City of Aberdeen Distillery
- Deeside Distillery
Settle back at your base with dinner served in the Baronial Hall. Guests staying at the castle can have a pre-arranged 3-course evening dinner, dining at the table where the nobility sat in centuries past. The castle menu features a variety of starters, followed by a main course, rounded off by a sweet desert.
You could always complete your whisky-tasting experience enjoying a dram of the castle’s recommended tipple. Either take your dram out in the grounds on a fine summer’s evening or, during colder months, nestle up indoors by the roaring fire. Reflect on your day whilst planning the rest of your stay at Leslie Castle. Here are some ideas to fill your remaining days in Aberdeenshire:
If you are an avid walker here are some great walks you could try, from the exciting clifftop coastal walks to the ever popular hills of Bennachie:
- The Grampian Mountains - one of the three major mountain ranges in Scotland
- Banff and Buchan
- Huntly, Alford and Inverurie: Gordon
- Stonehaven and Lower Deeside
- City of Aberdeen
If you love to delve into the daily life of locals on your travels, why not visit any of the below villages:
- Ballater – a picturesque Victorian village
- Braemar – famous for its connection to The Royal Family
- Stonehaven – beautiful coastal town
- Crovie – known as the best-preserved fishing village in Europe
For more information on Leslie Castle, or to check availability: