Slains Castle

This castle ruin is located close to cliff edges which can be dangerous. Keep to the surrounding paths, stay away from cliff edges, and do not climb on any part of the castle structure. Do not take any unnecessary risks.On the coast of Cruden Bay lie the remains of Slains Castle. The original castle was constructed in 1597 by the Earl of Erroll and has been reconstructed several times since. The ruin you see today reflects the castle’s exposed location and the misfortunes that befell its owners over time. The Earls of Errol, an influential family in the Cruden Bay area, prospered after William Hay (the 18th Earl of Errol) married the daughter of King William IV. Over time, the Hays fell on hard times, and in 1919 the castle and its contents were sold to Sir John Ellerman. He abandoned the castle in 1925, and the roof was removed to avoid paying taxes.Slains Castle is famous for many reasons, including hosting celebrities in the 19th century. Most notably, Bram Stoker is believed to have drawn inspiration from the castle for Count Dracula (1897). Fans of The Crown (2016–) will also recognise Slains Castle, which stood in for Castle Mey in Season 1 when the Queen Mother visits Scotland.