Visit Duffus Castle
For a relatively small area, not only can you find plenty of distilleries as the Speyside region is well known for its whisky; Speyside and Moray are home to many castles, each with a fascinating history to explore.
Where is Duffus Castle?
Located north of Elgin and just a 28-minute drive from Speyburn Distillery is Duffus Castle. Though it’s now a decayed structure, its ruins tell a fascinating story of life during mediaeval times.
How old is Duffus castle?
Duffus Castle was built in the 1100s by a man called Freskin, who was of Flemish origin. The first structure was likely a wooden motte-and-bailey castle, typical of the Norman style. In 1297, the castle was destroyed by the Scots, but was rebuilt as a stone keep in the late 13th century or early 14th century.
The castle was strategically located on a raised mound, surrounded by a moat and marshland, which served as natural defences. Once one of the strongest castles in Scotland, throughout its history, Duffus Castle witnessed numerous sieges, changes in ownership, and was a focal point in the power struggles of mediaeval Scotland. It remained occupied until the late 17th century, after which it fell into disrepair.
Who lived in Duffus Castle?
Duffus Castle is the ancestral sear of the earls of Moray. Freskin was the first followed by his son William the family soon became one of the most influential noble families in Northern Scotland. The castle had numerous notable occupants and guests before it fell into to decay.
What can you do at Duffus Castle?
Step back in history and explore the ruins for yourself. It’s free entry and open all year round so you can take charge of your adventure!
Climb the mound: As you climb the mound, you get a feel for how the strategically placed castle used the land as natural defences.
Explore the walls and ruins: Although in ruin, you can explore the walls and even a bit of the interior as you explore these you get a feel for what live would be like back then and the castle stood tall in all its glory.
Have a picnic: On a nice day, as the castle is just out of the flat laich of moray landscape, it makes for a striking site a perfect spot to have a picnic an essential stop for any adventurer.
Stop by Speyburn
After experiencing a piece of Speyside history why not come and explore what makes the region famous and discover how a Speyside whisky is made!
In a serene Scottish valley, tucked in amongst the tree-lined banks of the Granty Burn, you’ll find the iconic Speyburn Distillery. It's beautiful stonework and pagoda roof peeking through the trees make it one of the most picturesque distilleries in the region.
Since 1897, Speyburn Single Malt has drawn from these refreshing waters to craft a whisky as inviting as its famous Speyside home. It remains the only distillery to use its crystal clear water in the whisky-making process.
At Speyburn we follow our own course, crafting a whisky with nothing but enjoyment in mind. To allow everyone, everywhere to experience the beautiful simplicity of a well-made whisky.
Come and explore how we make the whisky that speaks for itself!