Delgatie Castle
Delgatie Castle is situated near Turriff, in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. The castle is made up of a keep, adjoining house and two later wings. It has a wide turnpike stair and painted ceilings dating from the 16th century in some rooms. Delgatie Castle is owned by the Delgatie Castle Trust, and the castle and gardens is open to the public all year round. The castle provides meals and has self catering accommodation in the castle and the coachhouse. Weddings and conferences are catered for.
The earliest castle on the site of Delgatie Castle dates back to 1030 AD. The castle was forcibly taken from Henry de Beaumont, Earl of Buchan after the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314 and given to Clan Hay. Delgatie was rebuilt in the 16th century. Mary, Queen of Scots was a guest at the castle in 1562 after the Battle of Corrichie. In 1570, greater fortifications were added including 8-14 feet thick walls. The main tower dates from about 1100. It was extended and a battlement walk added in 1579. Both wings were added in 1743 along with the chapel and dovecote on the west and the kitchen and servants' quarters on the east. Some of the rooms still have original 16-century painted ceilings - some of the finest in Scotland.
Legends
The castle is said to be haunted by a ghostly red-haired figure who was seen by soldiers posted there during the Second World War.