East Lodge - Crathes Castle, Aberdeenshire

Banchory 3.6 miles. Set against the dramatic backdrop of rugged hills and within historic grounds is East Lodge, a charming ground floor cottage found on the Crathes Castle estate. Choose this impressive National Trust for Scotland lodge as your astounding base, entering the gothic estate through grand Victorian gates, amongst acres of the castle's extensive grounds. Spend an evening of relaxation in the living/dining room, beautifully decorated with original arch latticed windows and neutral furnishings, before gathering at the dining table to enjoy a homemade meal. Make use of the contemporary kitchen as a base to cook all your self-catered meals, equipped with all the necessary amenities, as well as a handy breakfast bar for more casual dining for two. The beautiful bedrooms provide a tranquil place to rest your head; choose between a double and a twin, both with matching décor, bright and airy windows and ample storage. Revel in a warming shower on a brisk autumn morning, the shower room preparing you for an action-packed day out with your loved ones. Enjoy alfresco dining at the picnic table in the summer months.Spend a relaxing afternoon strolling around the Crathes Castle estate; dating back to 1323 when King Robert the Bruce yielded the lands of Leys to the Burnett family, there’s plenty of history to discover while meandering through the impressive gardens, home to yew hedges which were planted in 1702, and finding a unique range of wildlife around the 240 hectare estate via six marked trails, spotting buzzards, bats, roe deer and herons along the way. See the wonder of Crathes Castle from its interior, with this extravagant property home to intricate mazes, tall towers, ancient turrets and antique paintings, being sure to watch out for the trip steps, made to confuse running attackers! Thrill seekers will adore this corner of Scotland, where you can spend a day swinging through high ropes courses at Go Ape Aberdeen, found within the castle grounds, or take smaller children to the fun-filled Wild Wood Adventure Play. Banchory town centre is just a car ride away, providing all the necessities you'll need, including a choice of shops, pubs, restaurants and takeaways, as well as a large golf course, parks and peaceful riverside walks. Other attractions in the area range from steam train rides next to the River Dee at the Royal Deeside Railway, to coastal resorts found further afield at Cove Bay, Portlethen and Stonehaven. Travel over to the city of Aberdeen for a vibrant day of cosmopolitan wonders, discovering the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, an Aberdeen Ghost Walk, plus vibrant bars and shopping experiences. Further afield you can find the spectacular Craigievar Castle, also owned by the National Trust for Scotland, where you can find a wealth of history, armour and art immersed in the castle said to be the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Cinderella, while Leith Hall, Haddo House and Pitmedden Garden also lie just a short scenic drive away. The royal holiday of your dreams awaits at the historic East Lodge.