Huntly Castle

I visited Huntly during spring time just before being closed for the day. The lady at the small kiosk was very friendly and let me walk the grounds whilst she was preparing to go home. This castle also belongs to Historic Scotland and is free for members. Parking is available, but beware, it closes it gates at a certain time.
I was so excited to visit as the Huntly’s usually played a big part in Scotland’s history. Somehow, I was a bit disappointed. The castle is embedded in grounds surrounded by park land, football pitches, playgrounds and hotels. I heard children scream and saw police walking the grounds. At least it feels «save»!
Huntly nowadays is a ruin and a ruin it is. Whilst one part is still in tact and you can walk around several floors and admire the remaining artful fireplaces, the other part just shows an outline of walls and buildings that ones stood on a hill overlooking the surrounding area.
I just failed to feel the connection to this place. All that’s left is an empty shell.
But who knows, you might like it much more than I did.

Best time to see this castle is later on a sunny day. It brings out the gold and red in the stone.
The castle is beautiful and allows access into the upper bed chambers with nice views of the grounds. There are plenty of architectural details to appreciate.
Make sure to stop on by at Mrs Dean’s shortbread company which is a two minute drive away.

Im Moment ist Huntly Castle nur über einen kleinen Umweg zu erreichen. Am großen Kreisverkehr weiter auf der A96 in Richtung Inverness weiterfahren. Nach ca. ½ KM Abzweig auf die B 9022 nach Portsoy. Nach ein paar 100 Meter Abzweig über Privatweg zum Hotel.
Huntly Castle ist ein schöner, alter schottischer Landsitz. Zimmer wären mal überholungsdürftig. Speiseangebot reichlich. Alles gut zubereitet.
Der Hotelbetreiber Andrew hat uns individuell eine Reiseroute ausgearbeitet abseits der Touristenwege. Klasse.
Destillen und Schlösser satt.