Balquhain Castle of Duguid

Balquhain Castle is found in the rolling hills of Aberdeenshire, west of Inverurie. Originally constructed in the 14th century, this ruined tower house is the ancestral home of the Leslie family, a lineage that has played a significant role in Scottish history.

My wife and I had just visited the Maiden Stone (a Pictish symbol stone), and Balquhain Castle was only a five-minute drive east of there, ideal!

Exploring from the air

This castle is a dangerous ruin; therefore, there is no official access to it or any signage or information board. We parked on a bit of scrubland just off the road. The view of the castle is poor from here, and there is no obvious way to reach the castle on foot. Luckily, I had my new drone, so I flew it over to get the photos I wanted!

 

Balquhain Castle is in a very poor state of repair and seems completely abandoned. I wonder why some castles get the stabilisation treatment, and some are just left to become piles of rubble - limited budgets, I guess.

The east side of the castle doesn't look that bad. It has an intact wall with windows and lintels. The Strathnaterick Burn flows past at the foot of the castle.

The west side, however, is completely ruinous, with fallen masonry everywhere; it's interesting to see the internal layout with the floors missing. Trees were sprouting from the upper sections, further signing the death warrant of this once fine tower house.

Looking at the site from high above, one can see the outline of a barmkin, a type of defensive enclosure typical of this type of tower house during medieval times.

 

 

 

History of Balquhain Castle

Balquhain Castle's origins can be traced back to the 14th century, during a time when Scotland was marked by feudalism and frequent skirmishes both internally and with England. The castle was primarily established as the seat of the Leslie family, a significant name in Scottish nobility, whose influence in regional politics and society was considerable. The Leslies originally built Balquhain as a fortified residence, designed to offer both luxury and defence in an era when both were necessary for survival.

Throughout its history, the castle underwent several phases of expansion and reconstruction, particularly notable in the 15th and 16th centuries. During these centuries, the need for fortified strongholds heavily influenced Scottish architecture, and Balquhain was no exception. It featured a robust structure with thick walls, a gatehouse, and a series of defensive features designed to withstand sieges and attacks, which were common during the periods of the Scottish Reformation and the tumultuous years that followed.

One of the most significant events in Balquhain Castle's history occurred in 1526 when it was besieged by a rival clan (Clan Forbes), which caused substantial damage. This attack prompted further fortifications, and the castle was restored and enhanced to resist future conflicts. Historical records from the 16th century describe a substantial tower house with an adjoining hall and additional buildings enclosed within a defensive barmkin (a fortified courtyard).

Mary Queen of Scots spent the night at Balquhain prior to the Battle of Corrichie in 1562.

Over the centuries, the castle bore witness to various historical milestones, including the Jacobite risings and the advancements in military technology and tactics, which eventually rendered traditional castles like Balquhain obsolete.

By the 18th century, much of the castle was abandoned as the Leslie family and other nobilities moved to more modern and comfortable residences. The castle was burned down by the Duke of Cumberland in 1746. What remained of Balquhain Castle was left to the elements, gradually falling into the picturesque ruin that it is known as today.

This rich historical tapestry highlights Balquhain Castle's importance as a military and residential fortressando illuminates its role in the broader context of Scottish history, reflecting the social and political dynamics that shaped the nation over centuries.

 

FAQs on Balquhain Castle

Here are a few frequently asked questions on Balquhain Castle:

How to get to Balquhain Castle?

1. The castle is a short distance from the A96 motorway near Inverurie.

2. From the A96, make a left turn on this minor road.

3. Travel for only about a minute and look to your right.

4. We parked on this messy bit of scrubland.

Balquhain Castle on Google Maps.
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How old is Balquhain Castle?

Balquhain Castle is about 680 years old.

Is Balquhain Castle dangerous?

I would say yes. There are many freshly fallen stones, which poses a significant risk. I would admire from afar if you decide to visit. If you decide to trudge through the undergrowth, watch out for stinging nettles and ticks.

If you want the best view of the castle, travel along the minor road a bit further east to the point just after the bushes on your left. This is the best spot to take a photo of the castle without going through the fields.

Who are some famous Leslie's linked with the castle?

• John Leslie

• Patrick Leslie

• George Leslie

• Peter Leslie Grant

• Teresa Leslie

Key information on Balquhain Castle

• Balquhain Castle is a ruined tower house in Aberdeenshire, northeast Scotland, once home to the Leslie family.

• The castle is extremely ruinous and dangerous to visit.

• There is no path to the castle, car park or information sign.

• The ancestral home of the Leslie/Lesly family.

Conclusion

This was a short but sweet visit to Balquhain Castle, but interesting nonetheless. Sometimes, it's interesting to see castle ruins that haven't been stabilised and see it with some of its original features untouched by modern interference. It is a pity, though, that this castle is destined to become a pile of stones.

My wife and I were on a tour of northeast Scotland, our final destination for today was East Aquhorthies Stone Circle.