Defended by a magnificent curtain wall and iron yet, Balvenie was a stronghold of the powerful Black Comyns, rivals to Robert the Bruce in the early 1300s. It ultimately became the Renaissance residence of the Earls of Atholl, who built the Atholl Lodging with its grand circular tower.
We had a lovely visit to Balvenie castle. Were there early in the morning and we were the only ones. It was very interesting to walk around and very kid friendly. Staff was very knowledgeable and friendly. Included in the Explorer Pass with Historic Scotland.
We really enjoyed our time out at the castle today. The castle itself is steeped in history and it is also surrounded by a field which houses 3 Highland coos. The staff were really friendly and knowledgeable! There is a fee to pay to get into the castle so that is definitely something to be aware of.
Loved our trip to castle. Parked at distillery and walked up the hill. There is a carpark at the castle but very small , enough space for 4 cars so we left them free for disabled parking. If going in next couple of weeks just be careful as there is a nesting seagull. Even had a visit from some Heilan coos.(Highland cow)
Cracking place with a good feel and well informed and polite ticket person,the castle definitely needs a little bit attention to make it safe , but it's understandable and probably expensive. But still worth a wee visit .
Had a great time chatting with the man who gave us some information about the ruins while admiring the castle. He was very knowledgeable and seemed to hold great passion for what he does. We visited on April 19
The castle is impressive from the outside and there is one tower with a staircase that has access to a couple of upper-floor rooms, but as it is a ruin, there isn't a lot to see.
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Good for kids
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We had a lovely visit to Balvenie castle. Were there early in the morning and we were the only ones. It was very interesting to walk around and very kid friendly. Staff was very knowledgeable and friendly. Included in the Explorer Pass with Historic Scotland.
We really enjoyed our time out at the castle today. The castle itself is steeped in history and it is also surrounded by a field which houses 3 Highland coos. The staff were really friendly and knowledgeable! There is a fee to pay to get into the castle so that is definitely something to be aware of.
Loved our trip to castle. Parked at distillery and walked up the hill. There is a carpark at the castle but very small , enough space for 4 cars so we left them free for disabled parking. If going in next couple of weeks just be careful as there is a nesting seagull. Even had a visit from some Heilan coos.(Highland cow)
Cracking place with a good feel and well informed and polite ticket person,the castle definitely needs a little bit attention to make it safe , but it's understandable and probably expensive. But still worth a wee visit .
Had a great time chatting with the man who gave us some information about the ruins while admiring the castle. He was very knowledgeable and seemed to hold great passion for what he does. We visited on April 19
The castle is impressive from the outside and there is one tower with a staircase that has access to a couple of upper-floor rooms, but as it is a ruin, there isn't a lot to see.