The castle and estate will host a series of festive events throughout December, including the jewel in the Crathes Christmas crown – it’s ever-popular Christmas Past event, which gives visitors a taste of festive fun from centuries gone. Santa and his reindeers will also make an appearance – another annual highlight.

Property Manager Gareth Clingan said:

“Christmas is a special time at Crathes Castle, Garden and Estate. The castle is transformed into an enchanted place thanks to our talented staff and volunteers.

“With our great Christmas party, atmospheric festive music and Santa and his reindeers, Crathes is the perfect place to start your family’s Christmas celebrations. We hope to welcome many families from across Aberdeenshire to our excellent events, or even just for a spot of, or to sample some of the fantastic festive food on offer in our lovely restaurant.”

You are invited to send a reporter/ photographer, as preparations for Crathes’ Christmas continue.

Crathes’ full festive programme is as follows:

Christmas Past

Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 Dec, 10.00 – 16.00

You're invited to celebrate Christmas in style this year at Crathes Castle with the Balbridie Family who are holding their annual houseparty.

Bring your Christmas list to Santa’s grotto where you can tell him your Christmas Wish.

Porridge the Donkey will be keeping Santa and the Snow Queen company between 12.00 and 14.00.

Entry to house party £3 adult, £2 child

Entry to the grounds is free on Saturday.

Reindeer Parade

Sunday 6 December, parades at 12.00 and 14.00

Whilst the house party is going on inside, Santa and his reindeer will parade through the grounds to the castle. When they're not parading, the reindeer will be penned beside the Horsemill, where their handlers will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Entry to the grounds £3 adult, £1 child.

Additional fee for entry to house party £3 adult, £2 child.

Deck the halls

Treat yourself to hot chestnuts to warm you while you browse the holly stall to find those extra decorations to deck your home for that special Christmas feel.

Christmas crafts

Join our rangers for Christmas crafts in the conference room - there'll be an outdoor quiz too.

Christmas Carols in the Castle

Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 December, 17.00 – 19.00 and 19.30 until 21.30.
Early booking is advised for this ever popular series of Carol Concerts in the Great Hall featuring the Linties.
£12 per person. To book call 0844 493 2166.



Festive Food

This year a new 'Fine Food Hall' will be available to visitors using local food producers and stalls include fruit cakes, fudge, cheese and dairy products, fine ales, fine beads, Christmas hampers, meat and fish, whisky, chocolates, jams and chutneys – a super opportunity to get last minute presents and stocking fillers.

Christmas Shopping

You’ll find lots of Christmas gift ideas at Crathes – many of which you won’t find on the high street. Pop in for a copy of our Christmas Gift Catalogue or just put your feet up at home and shop with us online – www.nts.org.uk/christmas

Real Locally Grown Christmas Trees

Available to take home or order for delivery. Festive Nordmann and Noble Firs with excellent needle retention, locally-grown on a farm near Inverurie - from small potted firs to 7 footers.

For information on Christmas events, restaurants, cafes and shops across Scotland, or to shop online, visit www/nts.org.uk/Christmas