Near the end of November, a few friends and I took a weekend trip to Aberdeen with one goal: we wanted to see some castles. Originally, we wanted to go to Balmoral castle, but with it closed for the season, we had to look around for another.

My dad suggested we check out Dunnottar Castle: a castle alone the coast in Stonehaven. He had lived in Stonehaven during his mission in the 90s, and he had taken my mom and I back
For a visit when I was a year and a half old. It was strange to be a place I had been before but had no memories of!

Dunnottar is a ruin built in the 15th century, and played a key role in the Jacobite rebellion in the 1700s. Admission is less than £10, and even less now thanks to visit scotlands partnership with many locations across the country - admission is half price through winter! Once inside there are lots of buildings to explore, from stables and cellars to a reconstructed drawing room.

You can take a bus right to the gates of the estate, or you can take the approximate 2 mile trail from stonehaven, which is what I would recommend if you’re able. The views of the coast are stunning.