Drum Castle
The keep is one of the three oldest tower houses surviving in Scotland.
It was the work of Richard Cementarius, first Provost of Aberdeen and Kings Master Mason, in the late 13th century. The High Hall of the tower is still in its medieval state. It is accessed by a narrow newel stair, and offers fine views from the battlements. The original house was enlarged with the creation of a very fine Jacobean mansion house in 1619 and a later addition during the reign of Queen Victoria.
William de Irwyn was given the charter of the Royal Forest of Drum by King Robert the Bruce in 1323. The same family remained owners of Drum for the following 653 years. Irvine memorabilia is shown in the Family Room and the house contains an excellent collection of portraits and good Georgian furniture. It is a welcoming house with the feeling of a family home, enhanced by the recent creation of the Day and Night Nurseries.
The grounds contain the Old Wood of Drum an ancient oak woodland with Site of Special Scientific Interest designation mixed
woodlands, three waymarked walks and an arboretum. Within the old walled garden is a fine collection of historic roses.
Opening Hours
Castle, tearoom and shop:
2 April to 30 June, Thursday - Monday 11am - 4.45pm
1 July to 31 August, daily 11am - 4.45pm
1 September to 30 September, Thursday - Monday 11am - 4.45pm (last entry 4pm)
Garden of Historic Roses:
2 April to 31 Oct, daily 11am - 5pm
Grounds:
All year, daily.
Property will open on Bank Holiday weekends from Friday to Monday inclusive.
Contact
Property Manager
Drum Castle
Drumoak
Banchory
Aberdeenshire
AB31 5EY
Scotland
Tel: +44 (1330) 811204
Fax: +44 (1330) 811962
E-Mail: drum@nts.org.uk
WWW: http://www.nts.org.uk
Grading & Awards
