Welcome to Craigston
They say an Englishman's home is his castle. Well, now a Scotsman's castle can be your home.
Come and stay in our family home, Craigston Castle. Built by, and home to, the Urquharts since 1604, Craigston is located on the north east coast of Scotland – considered by National Geographic to be one of the most beautiful coast lines in the world.
Make yourself at home . . .
Very exclusive, very inclusive
Our beautiful stately home is set in acres of private park and woodland.
Come and experience the friendly, relaxed atmosphere and make yourself at home in these historical surroundings. By staying with us you will be helping to preserve this historic building.
With exclusive use, you will have the castle to yourselves, however, we, or our good friend Elisabetta who lives in a self-contained flat in the south wing, will be on hand should you need anything.
Have a look around . . .
When the time is right
Craigston Castle has been our family home since 1604. My wife and our three boys love to spend as much time here as possible and we want to share this experience with others, so we let the castle to families and small groups up to 12 people for 12 to 13 weeks per year, between May and October. We really enjoy being able to share Craigston.
Due to this limited availability we recommend you reserve your preferred dates in plenty of time.
Book with confidence, book direct . . .
History, golf, whisky, nature . . .
Scotland is the famous home of golf and here in the northeast are over 70 courses to choose from, ranging from the grand to the picturesque. Most are within a 45 minute drive, including nearby Royal Aberdeen, Fraserburgh and Trump International which rank among some of the best courses in Scotland. Follow the Whisky Trail, walk, ride, explore ... there is so much to do here on and off the estate.
Golf courses, Whisky trail, Castle trail, Dolphin watching . . .
Think outside ... no box required
Outdoor activities and bushcraft workshops in the Castle grounds and adjacent Craigston Woods.
Engage and inspire your team . . .
Craigston Castle is thought to belong to the Bell group of Scottish castles, forming “perhaps Scotland’s finest and the most distinctive contribution to Western architecture” (H. Gordon Slade) ... more
Coming through the front door, you are face to face with a splendid woodcarving of the family crest. This shows many of the different elements of the family Coat of Arms: wild boars, hunting dogs, mermaids, a naked lady, and knights in armour. ... more
Craigston is set in 250 acres of mature mixed wood and parkland in the middle of the working Craigston Home Farm. There are different walks that can be taken through the woods from a light 20 minute stroll to a more strenuous trek ... more
Yvonne's party Booked through Travel Chapter The North Lodge May 2026
A fantastic week. Excellent directions and great communication with Elisabetta. North Lodge is larger than it looks from the outside. It was great to sit in the window seat enjoying breakfast and the view of the lovely garden. Good location for touring around, plenty to see and do in the local area. As there was just the two of us we didn’t need to venture upstairs, the downstairs bedroom has the most comfortable bed ever, with beautiful bedding and decor. The garden is fully enclosed, our adventurous German Shepherd did not find a way out, it was perfect and beautifully maintained. The gardener even stopped us for a chat as we were leaving to ensure everything had been ok. Turriff is a nice little town with good shopping. If you enjoy Malt have a look in Barrels and Botanicals, a great selection and owner is very knowledgeable. All in all a very good week, looking forward to our return in March 2027
Kristy and family, USA Booked through Vrbo Craigston Castle July 2025
I have to admit that my very first instinct is to gatekeep the wonder that is Craigston Castle because it is such a jewel, but if others had done the same, I’d never have found it myself! My husband wanted to stay in a castle in Scotland for his 50th birthday. It’s a relatively daunting process to evaluate all of your options when you’re planning on taking a group of 12 from the States to partake. What if it doesn’t measure up? What if its amenities are not as described? What if it feels too dilapidated/too modern/too stuffy/too anything and everyone’s arrived and there’s nothing you can do about it? I am here to say that Craigston is absolutely stunning and simply wonderful in every regard. It took us about a year to plan our trip. Elisabetta, our host, was extremely responsive throughout and gave us an amazing list of resources to make our trip memorable and smooth. (She’s also just a lovely person). We were recommended to work with Alister and Daniel of ADR Hospitality Group and that was an excellent suggestion, too. Because VRBO wants me to be concise – I’m forced to bullet point from here on out: • The castle itself is unbelievably gorgeous, authentic, and comfortable • It is legitimately an historic family home with all that that entails, if that makes sense, and it makes all the difference • The grounds are beyond compare • It was amazing • Just see the pics • Can’t wait to return.
The Smith Party Booked through Travel Chapter The North Lodge April 2025
“A great house with lots of character and set in a super location for exploring the area. Betta is the perfect host and there was everything in the house that you could need for your stay. Best holiday cottage that I have stayed at for kitchen equipment. The beds were extremely comfortable and it felt just like home. Beautiful garden, which is fenced off and great for anyone who has a dog. We can fully recommend it for a family holiday.
A great venue to stay at. There was everything we needed and the beds were extremely comfortable. Thank you for the chocolates and wine that were provided. Betta is an extremely good host. Hopefully, we will be able to return sometime and maybe rent the castle next! The location was also perfect for exploring the north east coast. A huge thank you.”
Vicky W, USA Booked through Celtic Castles Craigston Castle September 2024
In a less-toured part of Scotland there is a hidden gem, Craigston Castle. The warmest of welcomes awaits from Elisabetta who looks after the castle and its guests and who fills the reception rooms with fresh flowers she has grown in the castle grounds. The castle is filled with history, art and objects of the Urquhart clan, who open their beautiful home to the guests for a few weeks each year. The drawing room was a wonderful place to spend a morning chatting or for retiring after dinner. The bedrooms were well appointed with each having a dedicated bathroom. The beds are cosy with crisp sheets and fluffy duvets. We spent a spirited week at the Castle with a group of friends from the US and we were fed like royalty by the ABSOLUTE DREAM TEAM, Italian chef Nelson and his assistant, the lovely Jen. Following our early morning walks in the estate grounds (beautiful trees), we used the castle base to explore the many delights of Aberdeenshire, from castles to sheepdogs and falconry, to breezy seafront walks along Troup Head and the coastal towns. A magical night was spent sitting round the hearth with a wee dram while local storyteller Lillian regaled us with tales of yore. Another, a Highland fling. An absolutely fabulous stay. We have made some magical memories at Craigston. Thank you so much Elisabetta, Nelson, Jen and Gosia (who kept us spic and span). We are enchanted.
Khushboo, USA Booked through Airbnb Craigston Castle July 2024
Amazing place! We had a wonderful time with the family. Everything was great from well equipped bedrooms to amazing kitchen garden. Our host Elisabetta was very nice and responsive to any of our questions. Peaceful countryside with whiskey trail, RSPB sites, beaches all within a quick drive. Will absolutely go back again.
Ben, Canada Booked through Airbnb Craigston Castle July 2024
What can I say, this place is incredible. Myself and 6 friends stayed here for my 30th birthday, and it was the most fun I have had in a long time. Co-host Elisabetta is an absolute gem and very knowledgeable about the castle. Staying at Craigston feels like you’ve been transported back hundreds of years. There is so much to look at inside the house, you could fill an entire day just exploring it. I hope to stay here again someday, if only to hang out with Elisabetta and ask her another million questions 🙂
Kurtis Orcutt, USA Booked direct Craigston Castle October 2023
I have been here many times, mostly when younger, and this is my Family, Clan Castle. The Urquhart family goes way back into ancient Clan times and the Urquhart Clan always looked at this place, since 1607, as a place of the family since John Urquhart built it starting in 1604. I started staying here, a few years ago and this year, October 2023, brought 5 couples with me for a stay. The grounds are always wonderful and William has created a wonderful place for people to stay! Elisabetta is a terrific Host and Manager and the Family is very fortunate to have her. The location to all of the favorite places along the coast are close. Banff, Nairn, Gardenstown, Fraserburgh and Aberdeen are all very close. Turriff is a very lovely town and just a few miles away. Great Distilleries are nearby also, including my favorite, Glendronach. I highly recommend as a classic Castle stay for your next adventure in Aberdeenshire!!
Norma Bybee USA, review via Google Craigston Castle July 2023
Our family wanted to be able to stay in this castle and explore the area around it. The house afforded us someplace where we could all stay comfortably, and a base from which to do day trips. I especially enjoyed the lovely fresh flowers in the house that came from the gardens; and of course, the flowers around the castle and grounds. I must give credit to Elisabetta who greeted us so warmly and made us feel at home, and then was on hand again to say goodbye at the end of our stay.
Rooms: Beautifully, yet comfortably, furnished. It took only a short time to feel at home.
Nearby activities: We loved Bullers of Buchan both for the variety of birds to be seen and the wonderful scenery. We also drove to Culloden Battlefield for a really informative tour.
Rooms: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Location: 5/5
Nastacia, Ventura, California USA Booked via Vrbo Craigston Castle September 2022
Our stay at Craigston Castle – will be etched on all of our minds for the rest of our lives 🙂 From the moment Elisabetta welcomed us, to the moment we hugged her goodbye … the entire stay was like being in a dream. It warmed our hearts when Elisabetta said, not long after we first met, “this is now your home now” … Our home? A castle? That was mind blowing … We had 10 guests who all flew in from California to celebrate a marquee birthday and also to gather, rest, relax, and explore some new experiences. The 10 of us took up 5 rooms. All of the rooms were beautifully furnished, which we later found out to be authentic and antique … much of the furniture was built at the castle, in the actual rooms (as it would have been impossible to make off-site and bring up the spiral staircase). All of the photos in the rooms of family members were also of the Urquhart family and their friends and the paintings are all catalogued. We had invited a private Chef, Roma (who Elisabetta had recommended) to help with meals (Breakfasts, Lunch, Snacks and Dinner), which made all the difference. We also booked some activities on the castle grounds, which we could have done off-site, but “hey, we’re staying at a Castle” … so why not?! Activities included, Clay Pigeon Shooting, Whiskey Tasting, Archery and Falconry. All of them we coordinated/contracted with directly, but all were recommendations from Elisabetta. Each expert that came onsite, was super nice, knowledgeable and stayed as long as we wanted. Elisabetta, who lives on premise in her own separate/private wing of the castle, also agreed to give our group a tour. It was then, that the majesty and history of the castle came alive and there were many moments afterwards that we would imagine what it would have been like for the owners/families and staff moving around the castle and grounds. We would gather throughout the morning at the breakfast table and also outside in the mornings. We had dinner in both of the large dining rooms, and gathered in the evenings in the drawing room, playing charades, laughing and telling stories. This is truly a magical place. Well worth the drive up from Aberdeen (closest airport) and only 10mins to Turriff (the closest town) and 20mins to the coast. We will recommend Craigston Castle to all our friends and look forward to returning one day soon. Thank you.
Marianne Stave, USA Booked through Celtic Castles Craigston Castle August 2022
Craigston Castle is truly a magical place! From the moment you walk in the door, you are greeted by magnificent history and the warmth and beautiful surroundings of the present. We stayed three nights for a family celebration, and both grown-ups and kids loved every moment of exploring the castle and its grounds. Elisabetta welcomed us to Craigston in the best way possible, and was the perfect host both before and during our stay. We did a private whisky tasting with food-pairing at the castle, which I highly recommend! Elisabetta provided us with everything we needed from the herb and vegetable garden for cooking, and chef Grant prepared a wonderful birthday dinner to top off our stay. We are grateful that William and his family let us experience staying in their extraordinary home, a true highlight of our Scottish vacation!
Cristina Negri, Italy Craigston Castle May 2022
Craigston Castle is a really wonderful place. I have just spent an amazing week full of relax, peace and nature inside and outside the Castle. The surroundings are full of beautiful places where to go and enjoy landscapes and nature….but also historical buildings. Very interesting the Castle with historical furniture and a marvellous Library. Betta , the host, is simply fantastic!!! Very nice and welcoming ….really the top!!!!
Marty Dunlop, UK Booked via Celtic Castles Craigston Castle October 2021
Craigston Castle was an absolute treasure. Our group visit castles for a long weekend every year (with a little gap due to Covid) and out of all the majestic landmarks we’ve visited, this was probably the best one yet.
There are many great points about our stay, so I’ll just start listing them. The grounds are nestled in a great little corner west of Aberdeen, with great woods and agri land all around. When you arrive, the castle stands with great prominence at the end of the driveway, welcoming you like high society. Even before you arrive, you’re greeted by Elisabetta through email and text, welcoming you to your stay and ensuring everything is in place beforehand. Before, on arrival and during your stay, Elisabetta gives a welcoming air to the weekend.You’re not short of space or rooms with Craigston, many lovely bedrooms (even with some under renovation), a cosy and full kitchen area, beautiful main lounge, elegant dining room and an absolutely amazing garden. Even in winter it was nice to sit out in. As the castle is lived in and still owned by the family, it’s always cosy, warm and comfortable (in contrast to some Trust properties are colder and less homely due to being caretaked as opposed to lived in). Everything about the estate and castle is looked after and tended to so you really feel at home when you arrive and stay.
I would definitely recommend Craigston to all for a long weekend or week with the family/large group of close friends, a great getaway. Having the ability to bring two of the groups dogs along really made it too, having great walks on the doorstep and a well equipped/cosy ground floor for them to stay.
Top of our list as a group of castle goers!
From our experience the price is of great value too, for what you get and in contrast to any other castle you could look at for the same time.
Kirsty Darwent Booked direct Craigston Castle July 2021
We had a wonderful week at the castle. We got together to celebrate my daughter’s graduation, which could not happen because of COVID, and we could not have chosen a better place to celebrate.
The whole experience was fabulous and we felt so at home. While the castle is really grand, we very quickly settled ourselves: we rather enjoyed getting a bit lost sometimes as we explored the rooms and found our favourites. The bedrooms are amazing and the beds are so comfortable.
Because we were celebrating, we had lots of meals together, and as chief cook, I really appreciated the great kitchen that was well equipped. The kitchen became the gathering place most evenings and we often ate at the big ‘servants’ table. We also used the dining rooms for formal dinners but we were not brave enough to use the dumb waiter!
The grounds are fabulous and we often wandered around. There are acres of privacy and amazing views of the castle. We held our own garden party on the front lawn and breakfasted most mornings in the rear garden, which was beautifully framed with rhododendrons.
Elisabetta met us on arrival and oriented us. She was super helpful and made us really welcome, then disappeared until we needed her. It could not have been a better arrangement and nothing was too much trouble. The trip to the library, which houses priceless family history and archives was a highlight for some of us and it was a delight to get access to this – pretty much the only area of the house that is not fully accessible when staying there.
Overall we had a wonderful time and could not recommend it highly enough – and we really hope to be able to visit again.
Gordon party Booked through Travel Chapter The North Lodge August 2020
Our week there was great. All Covid procedures were safely observed. We had great walks around the castle estate and drove up along the North shore. We will be back!
David Booked through Travel Chapter The North Lodge July 2020
A great house with a fully enclosed large sunny garden, with direct access to trails through the castle grounds. Ideal if you have dogs. Everything was spotlessly clean and the welcome pack was a nice touch. Good location for touring in the north east of Scotland. Elisabetta, as a host, was always available.
Divya Gathak Booked through AirBnB Craigston Castle August 2019
We had a fantastic stay at the Craigston Castle in Scotland to celebrate my husbands 50th birthday. Elisabetta is a fantastic hostess and the sixteenth century castle is resplendent with art, history, gorgeous architecture and woods. The hostess also help organize an on site whiskey tasting which was fabulous. The kids and adults has a wonderful time exploring the castle and grounds and visiting the many historic and scenic parts of Scotland and culture! Highly highly recommend this!
Nicklas Hellborg, Olso Booked direct Craigston Castle July 2019
Warm-hearted hospitality in an authentic and idyllic location. From the moment you enter the Castle you are transported back in time and greeted by the lovely Elisabetta who made us feel like castle owners for a weekend. We rented Craigston Castle for a group of 10 friends that wanted to experience the Scottish atmosphere and traditional activities but got much more than we bargained for. The lovely surroundings of the castle are perfect for jogging and exploration and the local pub is full of stories. Here you will find something for everyone and it is the perfect getaway. We are truly indebted to William for opening up this house for others, Elisabetta’s hospitality and of course to the chef, Nelson, who made our stay most welcome and we certainly look forward to returning again in the not too distant future.
Matilde Booked direct Craigston Castle November 2018
We hired Craigston Castle for a long weekend with a group of seven ladies and had an absolutely wonderful time from start to finish. Everything was just perfect. From Betta’s warm and attentive hospitality, to the incredible rooms and very comfortable bathrooms, to the fully equipped kitchen, to the endless activities that we spent our days exploring. We tasted whiskies, visited a great nearby distillery, lounged about in front of the fire and had lots of delicious dinners. I couldn’t recommend Craigston more, we’re already planning to go back again soon! I love Craigston Castle! A unique place, very fascinating and with a warm atmosphere. Beautiful furniture design, very gentle welcome, friendly family management that makes you feel at home. The castle is within a wonderful territory, wild and with a lot of nice animals: deer, sheep and cows. The surroundings are very nice, with many villages by the sea and other castles to visit. I suggest you make your next relaxing vacation there!
Opening times 2026
In 2020 the castle will be open to the public 7-27 May and again 19th–20th and 26th–27th September and throughout the year by appointment.
Opening times are: 1pm–4pm with guided tours leaving on the hour every hour (last tour at 3pm). Entry prices: adult £6, child £2, groups £4. Payment cash only.
Visits can also be arranged, by prior appointment, throughout the year – please contact us.
Accommodation is available year round – please check here for availability.
Tours leave at:
15.00, 16.00 and 17.00 weekdays
14.00, 15.00, 16.00 weekends
Entry prices: adult £8, child £2, groups/concession £5. Payment: cash only.
We welcome up to 6 people per tour.
We strongly suggest to reserve your spot in advance only via email at