This castle is in the center of Braemar village. Some of the walls are still standing, the rest have been used for other buildings or removed to build roads.

It was build between 1057 and 1093 by King Malcom III, Malcum Caen Mor King of Scotland. The castle was then named Ceann-drochit meaning Bridge Head. A bridge was built across the River Clunie. It was the only means to cross for several miles.

King Robert II spent time here to enjoy the hunting on the Braes of Mar. Later King Robert III gifted the castle to Sir Malcolm Drummond, his brother-in-law. Sir Malcolm proceeded to build the family tower in 1390 making it the fifth largest in Scotland.

Before the building could be finished, Sir Malcolm was attacked and killed by an unknown band. However Alexander Stewart then stormed the castle and forced the widow, Isabella, Countess of Mar to marry him. Thus Alexander Stewart became the Earl of Mar.

In 1435, Stewart died and the Earldom was annexed by the Crown. By 1628, the castle was in ruin. Excavations began in 1925. One of the most significant finds was in the prison. A broach was found with 16th century French Gothic writing. It read I am here in place of a friend.

Right:The river Clunie.