Spensal Brae

Downs, Moorland in Aberdeenshire

Scotland

Spensal Brae

A field of barley near the Kildrummy Inn Credit: Gordon Brown

Spensal Brae is a picturesque area located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Situated amidst the enchanting Downs and Moorland, this region offers breathtaking natural beauty and a tranquil ambiance. The area is known for its undulating hills, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife.

The Downs of Spensal Brae are characterized by rolling hills covered in lush green grass. Visitors can enjoy long walks and hikes, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The open expanses provide ample space for outdoor activities such as picnicking, kite flying, or simply basking in the sun.

Adjacent to the Downs, the Moorland of Spensal Brae offers a stark contrast with its rugged terrain and heather-covered hills. This area is home to a variety of unique flora and fauna, including grouse, deer, and birds of prey. Nature enthusiasts and bird watchers flock to this region to witness the impressive array of wildlife in their natural habitat.

Spensal Brae is also dotted with charming cottages and farmhouses, adding to its idyllic charm. The local community is known for its warm hospitality and welcoming nature, making visitors feel right at home.

For those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature's wonders, Spensal Brae in Aberdeenshire is the perfect destination. Whether it's exploring the Downs or immersing oneself in the Moorland, this area promises an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

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Spensal Brae Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.248937/-2.9081505 or Grid Reference NJ4517. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

A field of barley near the Kildrummy Inn

Gordon Brown

The Kildrummy Inn

Despite the name, this is more a 'restaurant with rooms' with a very high standard of cuisine. To dine, booking is almost always required. The rooms are small and inexpensive.

Gordon Brown

The Culsh Burn at Kildrummy

Gordon Brown

The entrance to Malt Croft

The Culsh Burn flowing under the track.

Gordon Brown

Kildrummy Castle

With the usual well kept Historic Environment Scotland lawns.

Gordon Brown

Autumnal colours at Kildrummy Castle Gardens viewed from bridge

Peter Moore

Souterrain near Kildrummy

Entrance to one of the souterrains near Kildrummy - June,2008.

Rab McMurdo

Souterrain near Kildrummy

Inside one of the souterrains near Kildrummy - June,2008.

Rab McMurdo

Souterrain near Kildrummy

Entrance to one of the souterrains near Kildrummy - June,2008.

Rab McMurdo

Harvest time, Kildrummy

Round bales and barley awaiting harvesting.

Richard Webb

Harvested barley, Kildrummy

The combine has just moved on to the neighbouring field.

Richard Webb

Kildrummy Castle

The triple window belonged to the chapel of this impressive ruin. The castle dates back to the 13th century, and was rebuilt or altered many times. As a major stronghold, it played its part in many conflicts from the Wars of Independence to the Jacobite Rising of 1715. For more information see Link

Anne Burgess

Adult Oystercatcher

Before we walked up to the castle, the custodian warned us about an aggressive pair of Oystercatchers. They had apparently swooped on a previous visitor, causing him to duck, stumble and fall. Sure enough, when we reached the ruins they set up a great commotion. This was one of them perched on the wall and shrieking shrilly at us. See NJ4516 : Oystercatcher Chick.

Anne Burgess

Oystercatcher Chick

This little chick was the cause of all the commotion. (See NJ4516 : Adult Oystercatcher). He (or she - I can't tell) was trapped inside part of the ruins, unable to escape to safety. I only spotted it because it was running around inside its trap, but it stopped moving and concealed itself among the stones. I was able to get a quick photograph using the camera's zoom, and then we retreated well out of the birds' way. We told the custodian, and he was considering going up next morning before opening time, catching the chick and, if it was still inside the ruins, releasing it outside so that it would be able to hide in the grass and avoid further disturbance by visitors to the castle.

Anne Burgess

Kildrummy Castle

Even ruined, the stronghold of the earls of Mar is one of the finest examples of a 13th-century castle still surviving in eastern Scotland. The three elegant lancet windows in the centre of the photograph belong to the castle's chapel. Kildrummy Castle is now a Historic Scotland property.

G Laird

Elphinstone aisle, St Bride's Church

The south aisle (wing) was built ca. 1605 (restored 1862) and was presumably part of a T-plan kirk (see: Link

) but where was the pulpit? The rest of St Bride's (Bridget's) kirk is a ruin, having been replaced by the parish kirk next door in 1805.

Bill Harrison

'Ane Honorabile Man'

Tomb of John Reid (d. 1563), now set into the remains of the north wall of St Bride's kirk, Kildrummy. The blazon could(?) be azure three stags' heads erased or.

Bill Harrison