Castle Fraser, one of Scotland's largest tower houses near Inverurie in Aberdeenshire, showcases the most elaborate Z-plan castle architecture in Scotland. Built between 1575 and 1636 by the 6th laird Michael Fraser, with origins dating to around 1450, the castle features secret staircases, hidden trapdoors, and remarkable historical details. Set within over 300 acres of landscaped grounds and woodland, it includes a 19th-century walled kitchen garden and waymarked trails where visitors may spot red squirrels and deer. Cared for by the National Trust for Scotland since 1976, the castle offers a refurbished courtyard tearoom serving fresh produce from its traditional gardens.
