Udny Castle

The exact construction date is not known but it was probably initially constructed by the Udny family in the 14th or 15th century. The property is first recorded when it is shown on a charter for David II instigated by Ronald of Uldney. MacGibbon and Ross suggested a construction date of the turn of the 16–17th centuries, but the indentation of the upper floors and thickness of the foundation walls suggest a much earlier date. The main construction work of the keep is believed to have spanned over 100 years and been undertaken by three consecutive lairds; it is reported to have "ruined them all". The Udny family also owned Knockhall Castle and lived there until 1734 when Knockhall was…

The castle walls are 8 ft thick and it has an attic keep measuring 35 ft by 43 ft. The building exterior is harled and it is five storeys high. Its angle turrets are embellished with corbels, some more decorative than others. Bartizans were included when an extra storey was added in the 17th century. Features include an arched entrance and a vaulted basement. The hall extends the full width of the castle, and is sited on the first floor, accessed by a turnpike stairway. The measurements of the hall are given as being 27 ft by 21 ft with a height of 20 ft to the vault's top. The hall ceiling was given a Jacobean styling during the Victorian era. Some plasterwork added when Wardrop's design…