Corgarff Castle

Overview

A white, solitary tower house ringed by a rare star‑shaped wall, Corgarff Castle sits high above Strathdon with big skies and a windswept, upland feel. It’s an atmospheric, less‑crowded stop—great for history buffs and photographers who like their stories served with wide horizons.

What You’ll See

• The original 16th‑century tower house, later adapted into a government barracks after the Jacobite risings.
• The distinctive star‑shaped perimeter—unusual in Scotland and a draw for anyone into military architecture.
• Recreated redcoat barracks and interpretation that make its 18th‑century garrison life easy to picture.
• A small on‑site shop and a car park below the hill, with a short, grassy walk up to the castle and sweeping views across the moor.

Why It’s Unique

That star‑plan enclosure wrapped around a classic Highland tower gives Corgarff a dual identity—domestic residence turned military outpost—set starkly alone on open moorland. It’s visually striking and historically rich without the crush you’ll find at bigger-name castles.

History Snapshot

Built around the mid‑1500s for the Forbes family, the castle was repeatedly caught up in conflict—burned and reused across the 17th–18th centuries. After Culloden, it became a government barracks (1748–1831) for patrols across the northeast and efforts to curb illicit distilling. In the 1820s it even hosted a legal still for a spell. The setting and the star‑wall you see today speak to that military phase.

Wildlife

You’re in open moorland—keep an eye out for red deer on distant slopes, buzzards overhead, and moorland birds. Bring binoculars if you’re a spotter.

Best Time to Visit

The site typically opens Wednesday–Sunday with a midday closure (10:00–12:00 and 13:00–16:30), and is closed Monday–Tuesday. Aim for the morning opening or after 13:00 to avoid the lunch break. Late‑day light can be kind to photos of the whitewashed tower against the heather hills. Crowds are usually light thanks to the remote setting.

Practicalities

• No toilets or café—bring water and snacks.
• It’s exposed and can be windy; pack warm, waterproof layers.
• The short approach from the car park is uphill on grass; sturdy shoes help.
• Drones are not permitted (signed on site).