Access

Special arrangements are currently in place at Aberdour Castle, to comply with Scottish Government guidance during the Covid-19 pandemic. These arrangements are detailed below, and will be regularly updated. Last updated: 21 August 2020.

Although things may be a little different, we hope that you will have an enjoyable visit and will be greeted with a warm and friendly smile by staff.

Safety measures

Our staff have been trained in hygiene and physical distancing and have been provided with the necessary PPE
Signage is on site to guide visitors, including one way systems and marked areas that are currently closed to visitors
We have introduced enhanced cleaning measures, including our toilet facilities, to make visitors feel comfortable while visiting
In line with Scottish Government legislation and guidance, face coverings are now mandatory if you are visiting any indoor/enclosed spaces at our sites including retail and catering areas (subject to some exceptions)

Watch our video on what to expect when you visit our sites

Carers tickets

In line with best practice in the visitor attractions industry and as advised by Capability Scotland, visitors with disabilities are treated on an equal basis with all other visitors and entry is charged at the appropriate admission category rate - Adult/Concession/Child. Proof of disability is not required.

We offer free entry for carers accompanying visitors with disabilities. To book a free carer ticket, please email ticketing@hes.scot and quote your order number.

Parking

A small car park next to the visitor centre has accessible spaces. Please call 01383 860 519 to check availability.

Aberdour railway station has a car park for visitor use.

Approach to site

There are two routes to the castle from the station car park. The shorter route is about 150m and involves 25 wooden steps with a handrail. The other route is relatively level and about 500m long.

Dogs

Assistance dogs are permitted at all our sites and within roofed areas.

Visitors' dogs are allowed at Aberdour Castle, but are not permitted in roofed areas.

Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times and not left unattended at any time. Owners must pick up after their dogs.

What will be open during your visit

All areas open including dovecot (only the Education Room and café are closed)
Toilets
Limited parking at the railway station (short walk to site)

Visitor centre

The reception area has level access.

Monument

The ground floor includes the:

stables
kitchen
store
tower house

There are 2 steps down into the kitchen, which has a cobbled floor.

Upper levels, including the hall and apartments are reached via a spiral staircase with a single handrail.

Throughout the castle there are:

small steps
raised thresholds
low level walls

Grounds

The castle has a walled garden with level access. Its paths are a mix of compacted gravel and cobbled surfaces. A border in the walled garden has strongly scented flowers.

Access to the terraced garden, orchard and dovecot is via steps or a steep grass bank. The garden is grass throughout, with no marked paths.