face iam
03.03.2025
did the trekking from Boddam that the castle quite pretty. although already ruin but still enjoy visit and take some beautiful picture from here.
Cezarina Nicodei
20.02.2025
Slains Castle is a dramatic and historic ruin located near Cruden Bay, on the northeast coast of Scotland. Overlooking the North Sea, the castle offers stunning views of the rugged coastline and cliffs. Originally built in the 16th century, it was expanded and modified over the years, eventually becoming the home of the powerful Hay family, the Earls of Erroll.
Slains Castle is famously linked to Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula. It is believed that Stoker visited the castle in the late 19th century, and the atmosphere of the building and its dramatic setting inspired parts of his famous Gothic novel.
Today, the castle is a popular spot for visitors who enjoy exploring historical ruins, scenic coastal walks, and photography. The combination of its haunting appearance and the crashing waves below gives Slains Castle a mysterious, almost otherworldly charm.
Vojtěch Kučera
19.02.2025
Interesting landmark and great views
Kevin Fairclough
14.02.2025
Just a fabulous ruined castle on the cliff top of North East Scotland
Marek Owsianik
14.02.2025
Cudowne miejsce. Warto przyjechać i obejrzeć
Cameron Mcdonald
14.02.2025
Great castle to explore
J MacD
13.02.2025
So there are not many unique tourist attractions as open as this in the present day. We arrived here on a warm and sunny day. Such a worthwhile tourist attraction to visit. Highly recommend if passing through!
SJ
26.01.2025
Slains Castle: A Historic Gem with a Gothic Legacy
Slains Castle, perched on the dramatic cliffs near Cruden Bay in Aberdeenshire, is steeped in history and mystery. Its haunting ruins not only tell a story of Scottish nobility but are also linked to one of literature’s most famous Gothic tales—Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
The History of Slains Castle
The Old Slains Castle, located near Collieston, was originally built in the late 13th century but was destroyed by King James VI in 1594 after the 9th Earl of Erroll joined a rebellion against the crown. Following its destruction, the family moved further up the coast and constructed the New Slains Castle in the early 17th century.
Over the centuries, New Slains Castle was transformed from a defensive structure into a grand mansion, with significant expansions in the 19th century. It became a symbol of wealth and power for the Erroll family, hosting many notable visitors, including members of the aristocracy. However, financial difficulties led to the castle being sold in 1916, and its roof was removed in 1925 to avoid taxes, leaving it in ruin.
The Dracula Connection
Slains Castle’s Gothic presence and its proximity to Cruden Bay are thought to have inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Stoker spent time in the area during the late 19th century, staying at the nearby Kilmarnock Arms Hotel. The castle’s eerie location, towering above the North Sea’s crashing waves, is said to have influenced Stoker’s description of Dracula’s castle.
Walking through the ruins today, it’s easy to imagine how the dramatic setting, with its labyrinth of crumbling walls and panoramic views of the wild coastline, captured Stoker’s imagination. Local legends and the area’s rich folklore likely added to the atmosphere that inspired his iconic vampire tale.
Visiting Slains Castle
Today, Slains Castle remains a popular destination for visitors seeking history, stunning coastal views, and a touch of the supernatural. While exploring the ruins, you can almost feel the weight of its storied past and the whispers of the Gothic fiction it helped to inspire. Accessible on foot via a scenic coastal path, it’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts, literary fans, and anyone looking to soak in the rugged beauty of Aberdeenshire.
Slains Castle stands as a testament to Scotland’s rich history and its lasting impact on global culture—especially for those intrigued by the origins of Dracula.
Mrs K
19.01.2025
Slains Castle is an awesome place to visit. It is a ruin but that doesn't take away from the setting.
You will be astounded that it is still perched on the top of the cliff when you see how close it is to the ocean.
We parked in the closer car park and walked along the shell topped path to the castle.
The castle itself is perched on the side of a cliff. If you have small children please ensure you are within touching distance at all times as you are right on the cliff edge.
Daniela Sabiniarz
16.01.2025
Visiting Slains Castle was amazing! The walk to get there was really nice, and the views of the coast were so beautiful. The castle ruins are very interesting, and the whole place feels special. A great spot for a peaceful walk and lovely scenery!
Sean „SJ“ Marnell
14.01.2025
Very interesting place by the sea. Found out that the castle inspired Bram Stoker to write Dracula.
Ray Putman
11.01.2025
Excellent evening walk and we'll worth the views
Marius Marius
04.01.2025
There is a place where history and wild nature evolve into an incredible symbiosis. You will find here a romantic place at any time you will come. I recommend it!
Arkadiusz Konkol
04.01.2025
I can go there again and again. Great place, amazing sea view and cliffs.
Marina C de Miranda
03.01.2025
Amazing place to visit!
Interesting ruins and incredible view
Not too hard to find, specially if you're driving. But also you can get there by bus from Aberdeen
Szymon „simon“ H
02.01.2025
Like the location, very tidy place
Danilo Capitanio
22.12.2024
Con circa 15 minuti di passeggiata dal parcheggio si raggiunge il castello. Il castello è totalmente libero da visitare e bisogna fare attenzione a dove si entra perché potrebbe essere pericoloso.
Molti scorci sono interessati e quindi consiglio la visita se passate da questa zona
Michelle Bhatt
13.12.2024
Lovely castle on the coast, especially on a nice sunny day.
Chris Nangle
06.12.2024
Just ace , right on the cliff
