Drumin Castle

Highland Stronghold of Power & Rebellion

Perched above the serene River Livet near Glenlivet in Moray, Drumin Castle is a rugged ruin whispering tales of medieval ambition, clan warfare, and political intrigue. Built in the late 14th century, this once-mighty fortress played a role in Scotland’s turbulent struggles for power. Let’s step into its storied past!

📍 Location

Nestled in the Cairngorms National Park near the whisky-rich glens of Speyside, Drumin Castle overlooks the River Livet. Its strategic position guarded vital routes through the Highlands, making it a prized possession for feudal lords and clans alike.

🏰 The Founding of Drumin Castle

Constructed around 1370–1380, Drumin Castle was built by Alexander Stewart, Earl of Buchan—infamously known as the “Wolf of Badenoch”. A son of King Robert II of Scotland, the Wolf was a ruthless figure who terrorized the north, even burning Elgin Cathedral in 1390. His castle symbolized both his authority and his defiance of royal and ecclesiastical power.

👑 Key Inhabitants Through the Centuries

Alexander Stewart, Earl of Buchan (1370s–1405): The castle’s builder, whose tyrannical rule destabilized the region. His feuds with local clergy and nobles highlighted Scotland’s fractured medieval governance.

The Gordons (15th–17th centuries): After the Wolf’s death, Drumin passed to the Gordon clan, a powerhouse in northeastern Scotland. They expanded the castle and wielded influence through alliances and military might.

Abandonment (17th century): By the 1600s, the castle fell into disuse as the Gordons shifted to grander estates like Huntly Castle.

 

⚔️ Drumin’s Role in Scottish & British History

Medieval Power Struggles: The Wolf’s reign exemplified the chaos of 14th-century Scotland, where royal sons carved out personal fiefdoms, often clashing with Crown and Church.

Clan Conflicts: As a Gordon stronghold, Drumin anchored their dominance in Moray during feuds with clans like the Chattan Confederation and Forbes.

Jacobite Connections: Though not a battlefield, the Gordons’ staunch Jacobite loyalties during the 1715 and 1745 risings tied Drumin’s legacy to broader Highland resistance against Hanoverian rule.

🌿 Architecture & Legacy

Medieval Fortress: The surviving rectangular tower and remnants of a curtain wall reflect its 14th-century defensive design. The vaulted basement and fireplaces hint at its former grandeur.

Preservation: Now a scheduled monument under Historic Environment Scotland, the ruins are freely accessible, offering sweeping views of Speyside’s landscapes.

📸 Visit Drumin Castle

Walk among the echoes of the Wolf’s defiance and Gordon ambition! The site’s wild setting and historical aura make it a perfect stop for history lovers and hikers exploring the Cairngorms.

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Plan Your Visit:

📍 Near Glenlivet, Moray (Cairngorms National Park)

📅 Open year-round • Free access

 

For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com

 

https://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/ballindalloch/drumincastle/index.html

 

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