A CASTLE dating back to the 15th century is set to reopen after being closed to the public for three years.
Auchindoun Castle, near Dufftown, shut its doors in January 2022 to allow for renovation works to make the ruins safe.
The extensive repairs and a series of inspections have now concluded, allowing for members of the public to visit the castle dubbed "one of the most remote in Scotland".
The castle, originally built in the 1400s, can only be reached by foot and is free of charge.
It was built by Thomas Cochrane, the 10th Earl of Dundonald and a favourite of King James III.
It was then sold to Sir Adam Gordon in 1594 and in 1571, members of the Gordon clan from Auchindoun attacked and burnt the nearby Corgarff Castle.
It lay derelict by 1795.
Graham Smith, community manager at Historic Environment Scotland, said: “The high-level masonry programme is the result of ongoing risk assessment and sample surveys and assesses the impact of climate change on sites as well as the scale of deterioration caused by a number of other factors, including the materials used in the building’s construction, its age and physical location.
“Whilst this is not an issue unique to Scotland, HES is believed to be amongst the first heritage managers to approach it in this way, with the results shared with peer organisations.”
Smith added: “Built in the 1400s, Auchindoun Castle still stands as a mighty and imposing stone fortress.
“The site’s remains tell a bloody history all whilst overlooking the spectacular setting of the Moray landscape."
With a lord’s hall, withdrawing chamber and a barrel-vaulted chamber only revealed by excavation in 1984, there’s lots to explore and discover.
“Plus, the views from its hilltop location make it more than worth the walk.”
