Auchindoun Castle (HS)

While there is evidence of prehistoric, probably Pictish earthworks in the grounds of the castle, the remains most visible today are of the castle constructed in the mid 15th century by Thomas Cochran (later to become an Earl of Mar) The castle was derelict by 1725. Stones taken from the castle have been used in local farm buildings and nearby Balvenie Castle. While standing, the castle had a large central tower and high curtain wall. Supporting buildings including a stable, brewery and bakery stood inside the wall. A second round tower guarded the northwest corner of the compound. Cellars and possibly dungeons were dug directly into the bedrock beneath the tower. Today much of the curtain wall and some of the outbuildings remain, but the central tower itself is very dilapidated.