A few weeks ago I promised more pictures from my visit to Scotland. A trip to Alaska, another to Arizona for a family reunion, and writing deadlines got in the way of a timely post.

But as promised…

As mentioned, day two of my trip to Scotland brought us to Crathes Castle outside Aberdeen. (I was calling it “krayths” but an Uber driver in Edinburgh corrected me; it’s pronounced “krath-iss”.) Home of the Burnett family, the building dates to the 16th century. I posted here about the spectacular gardens of Crathes Castle.

The castle interior was just as fascinating. Let’s begin our tour:

The iron grate of the castle door is called a yett. New word for me!

Part of the castle kitchen

The great hall

Two views of the castle stairs

Imagine running up and down these with your claymore in hand? The rope hanging down in the first picture served in place of a handrail.

Two castle charters

This is a subject I’ve seen discussed among writers. What did a land grant or charter look like? What were the terms?

This was a music room

And my favorite room, located at the top of the castle

In this room the laird of the manor held his barony court.

Here’s a closer view of his desk and the court book displayed there:

Keep in mind that in this vertical structure, these rooms were stacked on top of each other and the bedchambers. Whew, we got a workout climbing all those scary stairs!

If you’re in the neighborhood of Aberdeen, go see Crathes Castle!