Built in 1628 by the 2^nd Earl of Mar, Braemar Castle is more than a historic building, it is a living piece of Scotland’s past. From hunting lodge to redcoat military garrison following the Jacobite risings, and later a high society retreat for royalty, many colourful characters have called Braemar Castle home. Today, it tells a different story, one not written by a single family, but by an entire community.

In 2007, when the castle was at risk of losing its unique collection and closing permanently, the local community stepped in to rescue the building and its contents. Braemar Castle now stands as Scotland’s first community-run castle, protected and brought to life by the dedicated staff and volunteers who care for it and share its remarkable history.

A £1.6million project called ‘Raising the Standard’ was launched in 2019 to conserve the castle, redevelop its grounds and deliver community programmes focused on volunteering, learning and wellbeing, ensuring the castle’s heritage continues to be shared for many years to come.

The ancestral home of Clan Farquarson, Braemar Castle welcomes visitors from far and wide to explore its ten rooms which feature authentic interiors, interactive exhibitions and period displays.

Discover the people, stories and heritage that makes Braemar Castle truly unique.