Balquhain Castle

Balquhain Castle is a ruined tower house located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It was built in the 14th century by the Leslies of Balquhain, a prominent noble family in Scotland. The castle was originally used as a defensive structure and as a residence for the Leslie family. It was sacked during a feud with the Forbes family in 1526, but was later rebuilt in 1530.

In 1562, Mary Queen of Scots visited the castle prior to the Battle of Corrichie. The castle was burned by the forces of Prince William, Duke of Cumberland in 1746, and was subsequently abandoned. It has remained in ruins ever since.

The tower of Balquhain Castle measures 13.75 by 8.75 meters and is surrounded by the remains of a barmkin, which was a defensive wall or enclosure surrounding a castle or fortified house. The castle is protected as a scheduled monument, which means that it is a legally protected site of historical importance.

Despite its ruined state, Balquhain Castle is still a popular tourist attraction and is visited by many people each year. Its location in the beautiful Aberdeenshire countryside makes it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing. The castle’s history and its role in the history of Scotland also make it a fascinating place to visit for those interested in the country’s past.