About Guard Alba
Our Mission
At Guard Alba, we are dedicated to unearthing and celebrating the rich heritage that defines Aberdeen and the North-east. We work tirelessly to document historical sites, artifacts and stories that define our cultural identity. By engaging with local communities we ensure that the past is not forgotten but cherished.
Some think that Guard Alba is a parody of Conservation Charities. Outrageous.
Guard Alba: Preserving Aberdeenshire's Special Places
Bronnach Castle
Cairnboglie Hall
Bronnach Castle
Set in 1000 acres of woods, pasture and gardens, Bronnach is the perfect Scottish Castle. From the moment you enter the great South Door and ascend the grand stair to the Great Hall you’ll become enveloped in the rich history and unique culture of Aberdeenshire.
The ancestral home of Clan Bronnach, a castle was first recorded near the village of Old Bronnach in the twelfth century on land given to William fitz Bronnach by King David I following the Battle of Strathboggle in which William was said to have saved the king’s life by throwing his man servant in the way of an English arrow. The current castle has its origins in the mid seventeenth century when Bronnach of Bronnach, Eighth of that Name, wed Gertrude the Alchemist, only daughter and heir to the Marquis of Beverley. The Marquis died of food poisoning shortly after the wedding breakfast leaving Gertrude to inherit his extensive land on the Braes of Beverly which funded the building of the castle we see today.
Bronnach was said to be the inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella Castle .
Ardanach Caslte
Cairnboglie Hall
Bronnach Castle
Nestled in 300 acres of woods and gardens, Ardanach is the archetypal Scottish Castle. From the moment you enter the rugged West Door and ascend the grand stair to the Great Hall you’ll become enveloped in the rich and vibrant culture of Aberdeenshire.
Explore unique rooms steeped in history containing the national collection of antique bone quaiches, a lock of Robert the Bruce’s hair and the tam o' shanter worn by Robert Burns, said to have inspired his great poem of the same name.
The ancestral home of Clan Ardanach, the present castle was completed in 1562 by Sir William Ardanach, known as Slippy Willie for his talent of swapping at the last minute to the winning side in any battle.
In the distinctive Pictish Baronial style, Ardanach is built in the round and six stories high and was said to be the inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella Castle.
Cairnboglie Hall
Cairnboglie Hall
Castle Cirdhe Dubh
Cairnboglie Hall is acknowledged as one of Scotland’s most perfect stately homes. Set in 3,000 acres of Aberdeenshire countryside, this stunning estate and beautifully proportioned 18th-century house has an unrivaled collection of North American bear skins, a must see for the discerning ursine enthusiast.
Cairnboglie Hall was built by the 8th Earl of Cairnboglie between 1715 and 1722 to the designs of William Adams, Scotland’s foremost architect of that century. The landscaped gardens were the work of William Kent under the direction of the 1st Marquis. The Marquis proudly boasted that only five villages needed to be razed and, generously, built a township of back to backs on the coastal heights west of Fraserburgh where the displaced could engage in fishing and kelp gathering. The hall was said to be the inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella Castle.
The title is currently dormant.
Castle Cirdhe Dubh
Castle Cirdhe Dubh
Castle Cirdhe Dubh
Set in the remote hills of Western Aberdeenshire at the foot of the Cairngorm Mountains, Castle Cridhe Dubh (Black Heart Castle) is said to be the most haunted house in Scotland. Recently given to the care of Guard Alba by the Scottish Government we are working hard to prepare for public opening. Castle Cridhe Dubh was said to be the inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella Castle
Bennachie House
Castle Cirdhe Dubh
Bennachie House
Bennachie House, ancestral home of The Bennachie of Bennachie, passed to the nation in lieu of taxes on the death of the last marquis who diapered in the Tunisian Desert. It was given into the care of Guard Alba and we are currently seeking to raise £5 million for much needed preservation work. Braking News! - we've only another £4.98 million to go! It is believed that the house was the inspiration for Disney's Cinderella Castle.
Gorlach Castle
Castle Cirdhe Dubh
Bennachie House
The ancient tower of Gorlach Castle, built by Droch Anail the Friendless in 1268, stood guard the uplands of Mar against the ambitions of King Alexander III. When Drroch Anail was captured, some say betrayed by his dentist, and, on the King's orders, summarily beheaded, his wife, Gun fhiaclan took control of his estate. She saved Gorlach from being put to the torch, seducing the the King's lieutenant sent to destroy the building, keeping him awake through the night, singing romantic dirges. Now in the care of Guard Alba, Gorlach Castle is said to be the inspiration for Disney's Cinderella Castle.
Guard Alba and the Ardanach Wedding
Guard Alba and the Ardanach Wedding
Guard Alba and the Ardanach Wedding
All those castles - which to visit first - and which not to visit at all...
Leadership!
The Earl of Elrick CBE - Chairman of the Trustees
The Earl of Elrick CBE - Chairman of the Trustees
The Earl of Elrick CBE - Chairman of the Trustees
Sir Portree Potterton Bt - Director
The Earl of Elrick CBE - Chairman of the Trustees
The Earl of Elrick CBE - Chairman of the Trustees
Ailsa McCnsp - Head of Preservation
The Earl of Elrick CBE - Chairman of the Trustees
Desiree Blanche - Executive Assistant to the Director
Desiree Blanche - Executive Assistant to the Director
Desiree Blanche - Executive Assistant to the Director
Desiree Blanche - Executive Assistant to the Director
Logan Kinloch - Head of Nature Conservation
Desiree Blanche - Executive Assistant to the Director
Morag Rockall-Jones Head of Marketing and Membership
Morag Rockall-Jones Head of Marketing and Membership
Desiree Blanche - Executive Assistant to the Director
Morag Rockall-Jones Head of Marketing and Membership
Guard Alba and the Ardanach Wedding
Guard Alba and the Ardanach Wedding
Guard Alba and the Ardanach Wedding
Guard Alba's Director's in a bit of bother. This is going to be Bangkok all over again!.
Our Property Managers
Major Bartholomew Hislop BEM
Major Bartholomew Hislop BEM
Major Bartholomew Hislop BEM
Major Bartholomew Hislop, Bart to his friends, late of the King's Own Highland Borderers, is one of Europe's leading experts on potatoes and has turned the Bronnach Walled Garden into a place of pilgrimage for lovers of the tuber. You’ll be assured of a warm and generous welcome by Bart and his team of Guard Alba guides.
Dimbleby McRust
Major Bartholomew Hislop BEM
Major Bartholomew Hislop BEM
After a career in the Kincardine and Mearns Constabulary, Dimbleby McRust was appointed Guard Alba's resident manager at Ardanach Castle where he's continued for many years to guide his staff and volunteers. You’ll be assured of a welcome at Ardanach Castle where Mr McRust and his team of Guard Alba guides are waiting for you.
Brenda Eagallach
Major Bartholomew Hislop BEM
Brenda Eagallach
Before moving to manage Cairnboglie Hall, Brenda Eagallach was already a successful author penning such classics as 'A Harley to Patagonia', 'One Hundred Best Bikers Cafs' and that great favorite, 'Tea at the TT'. You’ll be assured of a warm and generous welcome at Cairnbogie Hall by Brenda and her team of Guard Alba guides.
Aaron ffoulkes
Miss Peg Tillydrone
Brenda Eagallach
Aaron ffoulkes recently graduated from the University of Inverurie with a Masters in Building Administration. Aaron is currently writing a vision statement and management plan to guide the team at Cridhe Dubh towards opening
Miss Peg Tillydrone
Miss Peg Tillydrone
Miss Peg Tillydrone
Gorlach Castle is in Peg Tillydrone''s blood. Having started in the castle as a fifteen year old scullery maid, she worked her way up over forty years to become the Housekeeper. Naturally, when the castle passed to the safekeeping of Guard Alba it was only natural that she should be appointed Manager. You’ll be assured of a warm and generous welcome at Gorlach Castle by Peg and her team of Guard Alba guides.
Vacancy
Miss Peg Tillydrone
Miss Peg Tillydrone
The position of property manager at Bennachie Hall is currently vacant. We will, in due course, be advertising the vacancy in the North Scotia Times
Guard Alba and the Ardanach Wedding
Guard Alba and the Ardanach Wedding
Guard Alba and the Ardanach Wedding
Guard Alba's short of funds - find out how its managers are coping!
Our Work!
Specialists
Customized Preservation Plans
Customized Preservation Plans
Our team of experienced professionals provides a variety of historical preservation services, including building restoration, artifact conservation, and historical research.
Customized Preservation Plans
Customized Preservation Plans
Customized Preservation Plans
We work closely with our clients to create customized preservation plans that meet their unique needs and goals. Our plans are designed to protect and preserve historical assets for future generations to enjoy.
Education and Outreach
Customized Preservation Plans
Education and Outreach
We believe that education and outreach are critical components of historical preservation. We offer a variety of educational programs and outreach initiatives to engage and educate the public about the importance of preserving our shared history.
Rot - Wet and Dry
Historic Landscaping
Education and Outreach
Our Director, Sir Portree Potterton, is Scotland'a leading expert on rot - wet and dry. If your Victorian timbers are suffering, get in touch - we'll be glad to advise.
Historic Landscaping
Historic Landscaping
Historic Landscaping
We specialize in creating historically accurate landscaping plans for historic properties. From formal gardens to native plantings, we can help bring your property's landscape back to its original glory.
Independence
Historic Landscaping
Historic Landscaping
No, the other sort of independence. Guard Alba is independent and not in any way connected to the Scotia National Trust or Historic Ecosse. And anyway, we've been around longer that them!
We receive no Government funding, relying entirely on the generosity of our supporters and visitors. If you'd like to donate or leave a legacy in support of our important work, please follow the link that's probably somewhere on the web site.
Your Perfect Wedding Venue
Ardanach Castle Chapel
Ardanach Castle Chapel
Ardanach Castle Chapel
Step into a fairytale as love and tradition unite in the heart of Aberdeenshire. Nestled among rolling hills, a majestic Ardanach castle sets the scene for a romantic Highland wedding. The bride, radiant in white, walks hand in hand with her groom, proudly dressed in his family tartan. A lone piper plays a stirring tune as they make their way down the aisle, surrounded by the timeless beauty of stone walls and sweeping landscapes. This unforgettable celebration blends elegance with Scottish heritage, promising a day filled with joy, music, and memories to last a lifetime.
Bronnach Castle Chapel
Ardanach Castle Chapel
Ardanach Castle Chapel
Nothing says romance like a wedding in a castle. And all our castles can accommodate your special day. Whether you choose the ruggedness of Aradanch, the sophistication of Cairnboglie or the history of Bronnach, your Guard Alba wedding will be the wedding of your dreams
Bronnach Castle Library
If you're looking for a wedding venue that is grand and opulent, somewhere fitting to share your special day with the cream of Aberdeenshire society, then choose the Library at Bronnach Castle, Able to seat 150 guests in comfort, the Library is the perfect venue for the perfect day.
Guard Alba and the Ardanach Wedding
We offer a wide range of salvaged architectural elements, including doors, windows, hardware, and lighting fixtures. Our inventory is constantly changing, so check back often to find that perfect piece for your historic restoration project.
Let's Holiday in a Holiday Let
Bronnach - The Laird's Apartment
Bronnach - The Laird's Apartment
Bronnach - The Laird's Apartment
Part of the top floor of the grandiose flagship Bronnach Castle, the Laird's Apartment is a elegant accommodation providing two guests with all they need for a holiday, living the life of a Scottish laird. Bronnach a superb base for exploring the local countryside and the delights of the Garioch, whilst still within easy reach of the main road to Stonehaven
Bronnach - The Turret Room
Bronnach - The Laird's Apartment
Bronnach - The Laird's Apartment
The Turret Room is a small, airy holiday home on the top floor of Bronnach Castle. There are extensive views across the Bronnach Estate and to the countryside beyond - on a clear day you may even see as far as power station at Peterhead. The accommodation has been furnished in a traditional Scots Baronial style and the Bronnach tartan is much featured. Here you can experience how it felt to live in a Scottish castle – an experience oft desired but rarely lived.
Bennachie House - The Kennels
Bronnach - The Laird's Apartment
Bennachie House - The Kennels
Feel like a local in this former kennel master's cottage. It sits on the edge of Bennachie Estate, in a grove of Scots Pine. Just along the road you'll discover the local inn, the Laird of Bennachie, where you’ll able to join the estate and farm workers for a chance to compare cattle prices and listen to Scotland's favorite ceilidh band, Seamus Celeste and The Devron Sporran
Bronnach- The Bronnach Arms
Bronnach- The Bronnach Arms
Bennachie House - The Kennels
The first mention of the Bronnach Arms was in December 1715 when the Old Pretender, James Viii & iii, stopped for a lunch on his way from Peterhead south to reclaim the throne from the Hanoverian usurpers. Mistaking an Aberdeen rowie for a squashed croissant he realised Scottish cuisine was different so turned and fled back to France. You can share the experience in the converted Tap Room Apartment - a free Aberdeen rowie on arrival!
Book Something Special
Bronnach- The Bronnach Arms
Book Something Special
Guard Alba has a special place in the hearts of Aberdonians. Find out why...
Treasures of the past and preset: our photo gallery
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