Like many castles of its time, Braemar Castle was a victim of the Civil War in the mid-17th century and, over the years, has been the seat of power struggles between rival factions. Ironically, today the castle is the only community-managed site of its type in the UK, an impressive L-shaped tower house set in outstanding surroundings. Within the castle walls there is plenty of interest, from the spiral staircase and barrel-vaulted ceilings to the underground prison and a huge iron yett (door), while myths and legends add to the mystery of the castle, including the ghost of a suicidal bride who threw herself to her death the morning after her wedding at Braemar.
Distance from Strathspey Lodge: 1 Hour, 19 Minute drive