Crathes Castle is an iconic landmark in the north-east with its historic gardens and popular forestry walks. However, many visiting the estate may not realise the transformation the Castle has experienced over time.

Banchory resident, Allan Thomson, has put his skills to the test recently creating a model of Crathes Castle as it would have been in 1783.

The retired chartered surveyor took his inspiration from a painting of an impression by the artist and archaeologist Jan Dunbar which appears within the 2019 publication ‘People and Painting, an essential guide to Crathes Castle’ which documents the history of the popular landmark along with its iconic painted ceilings.

The model is now on display within Crathes Castle thanks to National Trust for Scotland and Ian Edmonstone, a retired joiner living in Crathes who built the made to measure display unit for the model.

The impression of the Castle has been brought to life thanks to supporting archaeological research, archival plans and documents showing the Castle and buildings at the time. This included a dairy, brewhouse, bakery and other amenities required by those who lived and worked at the Castle in addition to horses and other livestock. The layout of the buildings surrounding the Castle also provided additional security and a place of refuge should it be required.

‘People and Painting’ is available to purchase at Crathes Castle of online here. The Castle, shop and café are currently open Friday – Monday 10.00am – 4.00pm.