The fairytale Cawdor Castle has been inhabited by the Thanes of Cawdor for over 625 years. History becomes foggy as it meshes with one of literature's most famous dramas, the murder of King Duncan by Macbeth. Did this murder really take place here? According to Shakespeare it did.

Turrets, a moat and drawbridge, a few resident ghosts, a Victorian kitchen, tapestries, antique furniture and artwork add to its delightful charm. Still owned and lived in by Thanes of Cawdor, it is one of Scotland's most attractive castles and gardens. This can easily turn into a full afternoon's visit-in addition to touring the castle and its pretty gardens, you can also enjoy a wonderful boxwood hedge maze, a lovely riverside woodland walk and even a nine hole golf course.

Directions from Culloden House to Cawdor Castle: Turn left at Barn church, following the road to its end and the A96 junction. Turn right onto the A96, heading south towards Nairn and Aberdeen. Exit right onto the B9090 and follow signs to Cawdor Castle.