Haddo House

Haddo House is unusual for Aberdeenshire in that it is not a castle - yet it is one of the most beautiful stately homes open to the public in Scotland. It has been home to the Gordons of Methlick and to Earls and Marquesses of Aberdeen since it was built in 1732. Visitors follow in distinguished footsteps. In the 19th century, Haddo was home to Britain's Prime Minister, Lord Aberdeen, and it has played host to many royal visitors, great politicians and musical celebrities.

The house was designed by the famous Scottish architect William Adam. Its exterior is a fine example of Georgian elegance and its sumptuous late Victorian interiors, by Wright and Mansfield of London, are no less impressive and still largely intact. Haddo boasts an extensive art collection, including a series of 150 castles by James Giles. Other works illustrate the family's fascinating political history.

Visit the old stables where you will find the shop, which sells an excellent range of gifts. The period tearoom serves delicious home baking.

Don't leave without visiting the delightful terrace garden with geometric rosebeds and fountain, a lavish herbaceous border and secluded glades and knolls. A magnificent avenue of lime trees leads to adjacent Haddo Country Park with its lakes, monuments, walks and wildlife.

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