Braemar Castle: the Jacobite stronghold in Royal Deeside

Perched amidst the rugged beauty of Royal Deeside in the Cairngorms National Park, Braemar Castle is a site that embodies the tumultuous history of Scotland. Its star-shaped curtain walls and L-plan architecture whisper stories of rebellion, loyalty and survival across centuries. Built as a hunting lodge in 1628 and later transformed into a Jacobite stronghold, it now serves as a community-managed beacon of historical preservation, welcoming visitors from around the world. For those exploring Royal Deeside’s heritage route, Braemar Castle offers an unmissable opportunity to walk through layers of Scottish history.

The castle’s significance lies not just in its imposing structure but also in its role as a witness to pivotal events. From the fiery days of Jacobite uprisings to its later use as a Hanoverian garrison, Braemar Castle tells the story of a divided Scotland. Its walls have seen rebellion, victory, defeat and reinvention, making it a deeply emotional destination for those connected to Scotland’s past.

History & Significance

Braemar Castle was built in 1628 by the 2nd Earl of Mar as a fortified hunting lodge along the A93 near the village of Braemar. The Earl’s choice of location, just 9 miles from Balmoral Castle, placed the structure in the heart of the Highlands, making it a strategic asset during the Jacobite risings. Its architecture, including star-shaped walls designed to deflect cannon fire, stands as a testament to the turbulent times in which it was built.

The castle’s most dramatic period came during the Jacobite risings, a series of rebellions aimed at restoring the exiled Stuart monarchy. In 1689, during the first rising, Braemar Castle was burned by John Farquharson of Inverey, known as the “Black Colonel.” A staunch Jacobite, Farquharson destroyed the castle to prevent its use by government forces. Later, during the 1715 rising, the castle served as a base for the Earl of Mar himself, who raised the Jacobite standard in Braemar to spearhead the rebellion. These events connect Braemar Castle deeply to the 1715 Jacobite Rising, marking it as a symbol of resistance.

Following the Jacobite defeat at Culloden in 1746, Braemar Castle was repurposed as a Hanoverian garrison, housing redcoat troops tasked with suppressing Highland unrest. This transformation from Jacobite stronghold to Hanoverian outpost underscores the castle’s role as a political chess piece in the struggle for Scotland’s future.

The castle later returned to the Farquharson family, who transformed it into a family home and hosted notable visitors, including Queen Victoria and, more recently, Queen Elizabeth II and her children, Prince Charles and Princess Anne. Its connection to the Braemar Highland Gathering, an event attended by royals for centuries, further cements its place in Scotland’s cultural tapestry.

Visiting Today

Today, Braemar Castle is a vibrant visitor attraction managed by the local community. Since 2007, the castle has been leased and operated by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, who have worked tirelessly to restore and preserve its historical legacy. A “Raising the Standard” project, launched in 2019, has brought significant improvements to the castle and its grounds, ensuring its survival for future generations.

Opening Times and Tickets

The castle operates seasonally, typically from April to October. While the grounds are open year-round and free to access, the castle itself requires tickets, which can be purchased on-site. Visitors can explore 12 furnished rooms, including the dining room, drawing room and bedrooms, offering a glimpse into Highland life across centuries.

Month	Days	Hours	Notes
April	Wednesday-Sunday	10am-5pm (last entry 4:30pm)	Weather-dependent
May-June	Likely Wednesday-Sunday	10am-5pm	Based on prior years
July	Daily	10am-5pm
August	Daily	10am-5pm	Closed noon Aug 4
September	Wednesday-Sunday	10am-5pm (last entry 4:30pm)	Closed Sat Sep 6
October	Wednesday-Sunday	10am-5pm (last entry 4:30pm)	Past closure Oct 4

Access & Amenities

Parking is available at the designated car park off the A93 for £4 (pay and display). The castle is accessible via an improved path suitable for all visitors. Public transport options include the Stagecoach 201 bus from Aberdeen, a 2-hour 15-minute journey. Braemar Castle also lies along the Jacobite trail, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the region’s historical sites.

While the castle does not offer on-site catering, Braemar village, just a short walk or drive away, boasts a selection of cafes and shops for refreshments. Guided tours led by local experts are highly recommended to gain an in-depth understanding of the castle’s history, though self-guided audio tours are also available in English, French and German.

Key Takeaways

• Braemar Castle played a pivotal role in all three major Jacobite uprisings, particularly the 1715 Jacobite Rising.
• The castle evolved from a Jacobite stronghold to a Hanoverian garrison, reflecting Scotland’s political struggles.
• Now community-owned, Braemar Castle is a successful example of local heritage preservation.
• Visitors can explore 12 rooms, learn through guided or audio tours and enjoy the scenic grounds year-round.
• The castle is a key stop along the Royal Deeside heritage route, just 9 miles from Balmoral Castle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you visit Braemar Castle?

Yes, Braemar Castle is open to visitors from April to October, with ticketed access to its 12 restored rooms. The grounds are open year-round and free to explore. Check the official website for the latest opening times and weather-related closures.

What is the Jacobite connection to Braemar Castle?

Braemar Castle was deeply involved in the Jacobite risings. It was burned by Jacobite forces in 1689, served as a base during the 1715 Jacobite Rising, and later became a Hanoverian garrison after the 1746 defeat at Culloden.

Is Braemar Castle near Balmoral?

Yes, Braemar Castle is located just 9 miles from Balmoral Castle in Royal Deeside. Both sites are part of the Royal Deeside heritage route and lie within the Cairngorms National Park.