Came here on a sunny afternoon. Only two cars were parked in the small visitors parking (free). Just a few steps away you'll find the remains of the Duffus castle, sitting on a mound. Duffus Castle was built by a Flemish man named Freskin, who came to Scotland in the first half of the 1100s. In about 1270, the castle passed to Sir Reginald Cheyne the Elder, Lord of Inverugie. He probably built the square stone keep on top of the motte, and the curtain wall encircling the bailey. It was becoming a stronghold. In the 1300s it was beginning to slip down the mound. At last Viscount Dundee, leader of the first Jacobite Rising, dined in the castle as a guest of James, Lord Duffus in 1689, prior to his victory against King William II's government forces at Killiecrankie. Soon later the castle fell into decay. And much of it is gone nowadays. But some rooms and walls are still standing. It's a great reminder of what was once has been here. You can walk freely around the grounds and explore most parts of the remains. There's also a small circular walk around the grounds. Dogs are welcome here as well. It's a nice little ruin to visit. Not the biggest, not the most famous. But surely a worth a visit - especially if you enjoy something off the beaten path. No entrance fee, no parking fee. There's a coffee shop just at the parking lot if you need a boost of energy (and a toilet). read more

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