Description of the attraction
Craigivar Castle is located in the Aberdeenshire region of Scotland. The castle has long belonged to the Sempill clan.
The contrast between the massive, smooth and dull bottom and the richly decorated stepped, turrets and gargoyles of the top make the castle look like a fairy tale illustration.
A magnificent example of Scottish Baronial architecture, the castle was built in 1626 by Aberdeen merchant William Forbes, the ancestor of the Forbes-Sempills family. The family lived in the castle for almost 350 years, until 1963, when the castle was transferred to the National Trust for Scotland.
Initially, the castle had more defensive elements, including a wall with four round towers enclosing the courtyard. Now there is only one tower left.
In the main building, attention is drawn primarily to the Main Hall with the Stuart crest above the fireplace, the Musicians' Gallery and a secret staircase connecting the tower to the Main Hall. The castle is known for its beautiful stucco ceilings. It is believed that the most beautiful stucco ceilings in Scotland are found in the castles of Craigivar, Glamis and Mahalls.
It houses a collection of paintings, including portraits of the Forbes family, and a collection of 17th-18th century furniture. There is a garden next to the castle. The garden and castle are only open to the public during the summer months and only on guided tours.
