On Scotland’s east coast lies a dramatic 16th-century castle ruin that isn’t on the tourist radar. New Slains Castle is north of Aberdeen, Scotland near the village of Cruden Bay. Built on cliffs above the sea, it has a similar feel and setting to Dunnottar Castle (also on Scotland’s east coast but south of Aberdeen) and Dunluce Castle in Northern Ireland. I’ve visited a lot of castles and really loved this one with its eerie atmosphere – the waves crashing on the rugged coastline, mossy walls and staircases, and enough remaining of the various rooms to give a good feel for the castle’s layout. We half expected to see Dracula’s coffin in one of the rooms! Actually, Bram Stoker (the author of Dracula) mentions the castle in a couple of his other novels, and it may have been an inspiration for him. The castle has an interesting history, you can learn more about it here.
There is a small car park just off the road about 1/2 mile from the castle. A long gravel walkway leads to the castle. There are no entry fees, even though it is part of Historic Environment Scotland.
Walking to New Slains Castle from the car park.
Above: Exterior views of New Slains Castle.Above: Interior views of the castle. You can walk up the stairways to the upper levels, but be careful – there are no railings and the steps lead to right drop-offs over the seaside cliffs or into rooms with non-existent floors – no barriers to walking off the edge! It was interesting to see the old beams for the floors still in place.Left: The Independent Tourist with his daughter at New Slains Castle. Right: Walking through the ancient hallways of the castle.
View of the castle’s grand entrance – looking north. They had some amazing coastal scenery through the picture windows!
Robyn overlooking the rugged Scottish coastline at New Slains Castle.
If you are doing a driving tour of Scotland I highly recommend stopping by New Slains Castle!
Explore Scotland’s Eerie New Slains Castle Ruins | The Independent Tourist
