Drum Castle, Drumoak, United Kingdom

Drum Castle was for centuries the seat of Clan Irvine. The original 13th-century tower of Drum Castle has been suggested as the work of medieval architect Richard Cementarius, who built the Bridge of Don in Old Aberdeen. It is believed to be one of the three oldest tower houses in Scotland (and notably unaltered). A large wing was added in 1619 by the 9th laird, and further alterations were made during the Victorian era.

The castle and its grounds were granted to William de Irwyn in 1325 by Robert the Bruce, and remained in the possession of Clan Irvine until 1975. William de Irwyn was armour bearer/secretary to King Robert the Bruce. Drum played a role in the Covenanting Rebellion leading to its being attacked and sacked three times.

The castle is surrounded by late 18th-century gardens, including a rose garden and arboretum containing trees from all regions of the 18th century British Empire.

Today, the castle is owned by the National Trust for Scotland and is open during the summer months. The chapel, dining hall and estate may be hired for weddings and corporate functions. A variety of local events such as classic car rallies and musical fetes also occur here. There is also a small shop and tearoom within the castle.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

a easson (2 years ago)
Beautiful place the park in the woods and woodland walks are truly wonderful. The castle itself is also cool

Lydia Cutler (2 years ago)
Amazing Castle but the walks are brilliant. 100% recommended.

Ian Elliott (2 years ago)
A fabulous place to visit with the family or to walk your dogs. There is a nice little walk about the grounds and then a further 3 routes to take around the area either by the river or around the forest. There's a little play park for kids to enjoy too. Get yourself there and you won't be disappointed

Mandy Cole (3 years ago)
Delightful Place. Great walks. Excellent play area for children. Cool boards to put you head in for photo opportunities. Walled garden is very well maintained; it has more than roses and topiary inside.

Sarah Kiboi (3 years ago)
Such a lovely day spent in the summer. The guided tours are fantastic with so much history to learn. The tea shop is really nice and cozy with an amazing pastry selection. I highly recommend visiting the Rose garden whether or not you visit the castle itself. Side note: You can stay at the castle in a room located above the arch at the entrance of the castle. For a small fortune I believe.

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German crusaders known as the Livonian Brothers of the Sword began construction of the Cēsis castle (Wenden) near the hill fort in 1209. When the castle was enlarged and fortified, it served as the residence for the Order's Master from 1237 till 1561, with periodic interruptions. Its ruins are some of the most majestic castle ruins in the Baltic states. Once the most important castle of the Livonian Order, it was the official residence for the masters of the order.

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Since 1949, the Cēsis History Museum has been located in this New Castle of the Cēsis Castle estate. The front yard of the New Castle is enclosed by a granary and a stable-coach house, which now houses the Exhibition Hall of the Museum. Beside the granary there is the oldest brewery in Latvia, Cēsu alus darītava, which was built in 1878 during the later Count Sievers' time, but its origins date back to the period of the Livonian Order. Further on, the Cēsis Castle park is situated, which was laid out in 1812. The park has the romantic characteristic of that time, with its winding footpaths, exotic plants, and the waters of the pond reflecting the castle's ruins. Nowadays also one of the towers is open for tourists.

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