Haddo House

The basics

Within the landscaped grounds of Haddo Country Park stands Haddo House, a grand family estate once owned by the Gordon family and now owned by the Scottish National Trust and open to the public. Like most Scottish castles and stately homes, Haddo was a family home, and relics from the Gordon family’s 400-year occupation of the house can be seen in every room and corridor and on every wall.

Easy to reach from Aberdeen, Haddo House has a nearby deer park to explore and walks into the hills where Aberdeenshire meets the Highlands. Experience the peace and tranquility of this special place, and learn about the rich history of Scotland’s lairds and ladies as you wander the historic gardens and chambers. Enjoy the extensive art collection spread throughout Haddo House, from paintings by acclaimed Scottish artists to sculptures, ceramics, and rare furniture pieces.

Things to know before you go

• Haddo House’s garden and grounds are open all year round; however, different opening times apply to the house and the café and shop.

• In the summer, the weather can be very sunny with a high UV index—bring a hat for shade while you wander the gardens.

• It can also get very cold and wet during the autumn and winter (and spring). Be sure to bring a jacket.

• Repairs and restoration projects can occur anytime—double-check before you set off to ensure Haddo House is open.

• There is an entry fee to access Haddo House itself, payable by cash or card.

• Accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, and bike and pay and display car parking are available to all visitors.

How to get there

It’s possible to get to Haddo House by bus from Aberdeen city center. Take the 290 or 291 yellow route from outside the University of Aberdeen on King Street straight to Haddo—it takes around an hour and a half. To drive, follow the A90 north from Aberdeen to Knockhall Castle and take the B9005 at Ellon, following signs to Haddo House.

When to get there

Haddo’s grounds and gardens are open to the public all year; however, the house is usually closed during January. As the house and gardens are open to the public, the school holiday periods can get very busy, so be advised and, if traveling, pre-book your tours and tickets.

Enjoy music, song, dance, and art in Aberdeenshire

Each autumn, Haddo Arts Festival celebrates music, dance, and visual art. The Haddo House Choral & Operatic Society performs an opening concert, and Scottish Opera a finale. The festival is an ideal time to visit Haddo House and explore its cultural connections with the arts, which began more than 200 years ago. Since its inception, Haddo Arts Festival has welcomed Benjamin Britten, the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, and the Scottish National Jazz Orchestra.