Tolquhon Castle

Tolquhon Castle invites visitors in with its striking gatehouse, a structure designed less for defence and more to showcase the status and ambition of its builders. Even today, its elegance and quality make a powerful first impression. As you wander further, you can look out for the carved initials T.L., standing for Thomas Leiper – an unusual signature from a medieval architect and a rare surviving mark of individual pride in the building’s creation.

Beyond the courtyard lies the main house, where you can explore the family rooms and descend “below stairs” to discover the everyday workings of the household. The castle also hides a more secretive feature: Sir William Forbes’s private chamber for securing valuables, a concealed space that hints at the uncertainties and intrigues of the period. Together, these elements give Tolquhon a unique blend of grandeur, domestic charm, and quiet mystery.