Ballindalloch Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ballindaloch Castle |
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| Part of Banffshire | |
| Near Ballindalloch, Banffshire, Scotland | |
 Ballindaloch Castle
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| Coordinates | 57°24′42″N 3°22′09″W / 57.4118°N 3.3693°W |
| Type | Castle |
| Site history | |
| Built | 16th century |
Ballindalloch Castle, often called the "pearl of the north," is a beautiful Scottish castle. It is located in Ballindalloch, Banffshire, Scotland. This historic castle has been the family home of the Macpherson-Grants since 1546.
Contents
A Look at Ballindalloch Castle's Past
The very first part of Ballindalloch Castle was built in 1546. This original building was a type of castle known as a Z-plan castle. This means it had a main rectangular block with towers at opposite corners.
Early Challenges and Rebuilding
In 1590, there was a disagreement involving the castle. The Chief of Grant, John Grant of Freuchie, was supposed to help settle a problem. Instead, he joined with others and caused more trouble. They even fired cannon from Darnaway Castle at some officers.
Later, in 1645, the castle faced a tough time. It was attacked and burned by James Graham. After this, the castle was carefully rebuilt and brought back to life.
Castle Expansions and Modern Changes
Over the years, the castle grew bigger.
- In 1770, General James Grant added new parts. People say his ghost might still be seen at the castle!
- In 1850, the architect Thomas MacKenzie also added more sections.
- Further additions were made in 1878. However, many of these were removed in 1965 during a big update to the castle.
The Russell and Macpherson-Grant families have lived in Ballindalloch Castle for its entire history.
Special Collections and Surroundings
Ballindalloch Castle is home to a special collection of 17th-century Spanish paintings. These artworks are very old and valuable.
The castle grounds are also very interesting.
- There is a modern rock garden from the 20th century.
- You can also find a 17th-century dovecote, which is a building for doves or pigeons.
- The River Spey and River Avon flow right through the estate. These rivers are famous for fishing.
- The castle estate is also home to a well-known herd of Aberdeen Angus cattle. These are a famous type of beef cow.
Today, the Macpherson-Grant family still lives in the castle. During the summer, tourists can visit and explore its history. There are also workshops on the grounds that are still used today.
Castle Building Traditions
There's a fun story about how Ballindalloch Castle was built. It's said that the builders first tried to build it in a different spot. But every night, whatever they built during the day would mysteriously fall down!
The laird, or lord, of the castle was very annoyed. Then, he supposedly heard a mysterious voice. The voice told him, "Build in the cow haughs, and you will meet with no interruptions." A "cow haugh" is a low-lying field where cows graze. The laird followed this advice, and from then on, the building went smoothly.
Ballindalloch Whisky Distillery
The owners of Ballindalloch Castle have also started their own whisky distillery. With help from the Scottish Government, the Ballindalloch distillery began making whisky in September 2014. It is located on the castle's farm estate.
Castle Ghost Stories
Like many old castles, Ballindalloch has its own ghostlore stories. The dining room is said to be haunted by a ghost known as The Green Lady. The Green Lady is a common character in Scottish ghost stories about castles. She is often described as a ghostly woman dressed in green.
