📌 Dufftown, Moray
★★★
🛠️ Site open, with some access restrictions due to masonry work – reduced admission fee (checked February 2026)
This 13th century castle on the north side of Dufftown was built as the seat of the powerful Comyn earls of Buchan, who once ruled a vast swathe of the Highlands from the east to west coasts. Though now lying ruined, Balvenie is one of Scotland’s oldest castles, with its imposing curtain wall around 750 years old. Over the centuries it underwent several changes of ownership (first being taken by Robert the Bruce in 1306), and was eventually renovated to become a comfortable lodging as society and priorities changed. Somewhat ironically, the castle is now overshadowed by the famous Glenfiddich Distillery nearby, which attracts a far greater number of visitors – though this means you’re more likely to have it to yourself outside of high season.
🌍 Location
📌 Castle Road (B975), 0.5 mi north of Dufftown
🧭 O.S. Grid Reference: NJ 326409
🛰️ GPS coordinates: 57.453138,-3.124521
🚌 Bus to Glenfiddich Distillery | 🚆 Dufftown, on Keith & Dufftown heritage railway
🚗 Car park
📝 Key info
⌚ Wednesday to Sunday, April to September 2025
🎫 £8.50 adult / £5 child / free for Historic Environment Scotland members, discount for booking online
