Fyvie Castle, Acquisition and Endowment

Acquisition, endowment of Category A-listed, Fyvie Castle. Once a royal stronghold, one of a chain of fortresses throughout medieval Scotland. From 1390 following the Battle of Otterburn, five successive families created probably the finest example of Scottish Baronial architecture. An old tradition claims that these families - Preston, Meldrum, Seton, Gordon and Leith - each built one of Fyvie's fives towers. The oldest part dates from the 13th century, and within its ancient walls is a great wheel-stair, the finest in Scotland. The opulence of the Edwardian era is reflected in the interiors created by the first Lord Leith of Fyvie. A rich portrait collection includes works by Batoni, Raeburn, Romney, Gainsborough, Opie and Hoppner, and there is a fine collection of arms and armour and 17th century tapestries. The grounds and lock were designed as landscaped parkland in the early 19th century. The 18th century walled garden has been redeveloped as a celebration of Scottish fruits and vegetables. Visitors can enjoy the restored racquets court, ice house, bird hide, restored earth closet and beautiful lochside walks.