Craigston Castle

Craigston Castle, located in the municipality of Turriff in modern-day Scotland, was built by Scottish builders in the early 17th century. Its construction reflects the craftsmanship of the Bell family masons, who were prominent in Scottish architecture during this period.

The castle was erected between 1604 and 1607 by John Urquhart of Craigfintry, a figure known as the “Tutor of Cromarty.” He played an important role in shaping the castle’s design, which stands as a distinctive example within a group of castles associated with the Bell masons. The Urquhart family, whose history dates back to Adam Urquhart, a 14th-century sheriff of Cromarty, made the castle their ancestral home. In 1657, the family sold the estate but later regained possession in 1739 under Captain John Urquhart, often called “the pirate,” who was the great-grandson of the original builder.

Throughout the 18th century, the castle underwent some enlargement, with flanking wings added and gardens laid out to complement the residence. These gardens were developed independently from plans created in 1733 by the well-known Scottish architect William Adam, indicating a divergence from his designs. Later, in the 1830s, architect John Smith, recognized for his work on Balmoral Castle, prepared proposals for an extensive remodeling of Craigston Castle; however, only a new entrance doorway was constructed based on his plans. Today, Craigston Castle remains an important historic property owned by the Urquhart family, preserving its connection to centuries of lineage.