The Taming of Nature - Castles, Gardens & Estates of North East Scotland
A six day stay at Raemoir House with David Mitchell & Chantal Cookson
- 19 July 2020
" An Introduction by Andrew Cochrane, Noble Caledonia Founder & Director "
Join us for a magical midsummer break at Raemoir Mansion House and Estate in glorious Royal Deeside. Each day features a programme of short excursions, designed to help you discover and enjoy the region’s unique history and celebrate its art, architecture, gardens and historic collections.
Our explorations begin with a short drive over the Grampian Mountains so inspirational to Lord Byron and celebrated in his work ‘Dark Lochnagar’. This route to Edzell Castle, famed for its renaissance walled garden built in 1604 by Sir David Lindsay will be via the Cairn O’Mount providing an opportunity for you to enjoy the wild and magnificent scenery. On arrival we will explore the castle and the walled garden complete with parterres, a summerhouse and bathhouse! This unique garden is famed for its decorated ornate sculpted panels and is of European importance for its architecture. From here a further five hundred years of Scottish history, excellence and craftsmanship unfold with a visit to Drum Castle, one of Scotland’s oldest Tower Houses which is now famed for its vast library and collection of historic roses.
The formal garden at Pitmedden; originally laid out by Sir Alexander Seton in 1675 and recreated by the National Trust for Scotland in the 1950’s, provides an opportunity for a leisurely morning stroll before a look at the Museum of Farming Life which brings the area’s significant agricultural past to life. Our tour also takes in the Scottish Baronial masterpiece of Fyvie Castle which has links with William the Lion 1214, King of Scotland; it contains a vast collection of lavish art works by Raeburn, Batoni, Romney, Gainsborough and others, as well as Flemish Tapestries, fine furniture, armour and antiquities. Here, outside you will have time to discover the walled garden with its collection of Scottish fruit and colourful borders. The inspirational pink fairy-tale Craigievar Castle ‘which brings out the child in all of us’ holds an impressive collection of art and antiquities, all viewed by natural light. This is a setting that provides a special insight into innovative conservation work. Not far away, a visit to Kildrummy Castle Gardens allows us the opportunity to explore a romantic quarry garden, built below a ruined Medieval castle.
On our last day we will visit the magnificent turreted Crathes Castle, which was lived in by the Burnett family for over 350 years. Today it is famed for its artworks, fine furniture, delightful 16th century painted ceilings, oak panelling and treasures such as the ‘Horn of Leys’ linked to Robert The Bruce. We will also explore the internationally renowned colourful walled garden; framed by ancient yew hedges it contains many rare and unusual plants. After lunch we drive westward through the heart of beautiful Royal Deeside to visit Balmoral Estate; the much-loved private home of the Royal Family since 1852 when it was purchased by Prince Albert and Queen Victoria.
Each daily outing has been carefully designed to include something for everyone with a careful mix of the region’s finest castles, significant art collections and antiquities; all set within stunning gardens and estates. During your stay you will have time to soak up the grandeur and the atmosphere of the landscape as well as encountering a mixture of garden styles including formal, woodland, walled and kitchen gardens; many containing historic plant collections, colourful herbaceous borders plus splendid trees and shrubs.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
Raemoir House
For the duration of our tour we have taken over this fine house which is located close to the town of Banchory. Only forty minutes from Aberdeen, this beautiful early 19th century country house, which sits within 14 acres of private parkland, is both elegant and commodious making it the perfect location in which to enjoy Highland hospitality. A total of 18 en-suite bedrooms, split between the main building and the adjacent Ha Hoose (Hall House) makes for the perfect size house party. The bedrooms are large and beautifully furnished, many with period furniture and some have splendid views through large Georgian windows. Having this delightful property for our sole use allows us to plan mealtimes to suit our programme and provides access to the many beautiful sitting rooms including the impressive Oval Room, panelled drawing room, Garden Room and grand Georgian Room. The award-winning kitchen will provide breakfast and dinner from locally sourced providers and specially selected wines will be served with dinner each evening.
Itinerary
Day 1 Aberdeen to Raemoir House.
Meet at Aberdeen Airport or Rail Station in the mid afternoon for the transfer to Raemoir House where the attentive staff will assist you on arrival. Settle into your room or explore the grounds before meeting this evening for drinks and a welcome dinner.
Day 2 Edzell Castle & Drum Castle.
After a leisurely breakfast drive through the Grampian Mountains via Cairn O’Mount, the heart of Nan Shepherd country (author of the Grampian Quartet) to Edzell Castle, a fusion of art, science and nature and one of the finest 17th century walled gardens. Here David Mitchell will discuss the importance of the garden and its origins. Later, we drive along the coast to Stonehaven for lunch. In the afternoon we will make for Drum Castle, one of the oldest tower houses with a fine collection of portraits and Georgian furniture. After a guided tour of the house enjoy a walk in the historic scented Rose Garden.
Day 3 Pitmedden Garden & Fyvie Castle.
Drive to Pitmedden, surely one of Scotland’s finest gardens. After a brief introduction take time to explore and enjoy at your own pace the silence and elegance of this unique Scottish Renaissance walled garden famed for its colourful parterres. In the late morning a short drive will bring us to Fyvie Castle and after lunch in the Victorian Kitchen join a guided tour of the 800-year-old castle including the impressive art collection. Later, join David Mitchell for a walk in the two acre walled garden with its abundant collection of Scottish Heritage fruit.
Day 4 Craigievar Castle & Kildrummy Castle Garden.
Our day begins with a visit to this famous fairy-tale pink castle complete with turrets. A 17th century Scottish Baronial Tower House, it is renowned for its plasterwork, Jacobean oak panels and art collection. Situated on a designed landscape, it is home to several magnificent specimen trees. In the late morning drive to Kildrummy and enjoy a picnic lunch before a pleasant afternoon walk through Kildrummy, one of the most peaceful and tranquil gardens in Scotland’s North East. Built within an ancient quarry below the ruined 12th century castle it has a fine plant collection including woodland with wonderful vistas. David Mitchell will be available to answer questions and help you explore the grounds. Return to Raemoir for afternoon tea and some Scottish traditional music.
Day 5 Crathes Castle & Balmoral.
The highlight for many will be our visit to Crathes Castle and Garden, regarded by many as the finest historic castle and garden in Scotland. Steeped in history, it is famed for its exceptional 16th century painted ceilings, oak paneling and other antiquities. Enjoy the wonderful plant collection including herbaceous borders and a wide variety of exotic shrubs surrounded by a magnificent ancient yew hedge. We will take lunch at Crathes and then continue westwards through Royal Deeside to visit Balmoral. Stroll through the formal garden before exploring the vegetable gardens, the ballroom and the stable exhibitions. Driving back to Raemoir, we will stop at the historic borough of Ballater, famed for its Royal warrant holding shops and distinct architecture. This evening enjoy the farewell dinner with music at Raemoir House.
Day 6 Raemoir House to Aberdeen.
After a hearty Scottish breakfast transfers will be provided to Aberdeen Airport and Rail Station.
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy| 19 to 24 July 2020 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Price | |
| Ha Hoose Standard Room | £1995 | |
| Ha Hoose Suite | £2195 | |
| Main House Standard Room | £2295 | |
| Main House Superior Room | £2495 | |
| Main House Deluxe Room | £2595 | |
| Main House Premium Deluxe Room | £2795 | |
| Ha Hoose Standard Room for sole use | £2995 | |
| Main House Standard Room for sole use | £3295 | |
Tour Reference Code: LANATURE
PRICE INCLUDES: Five nights hotel accommodation at Raemoir House on a breakfast & dinner basis • Lunch on days 2, 3, 4 & 5 (note day 4 will be a picnic lunch) • Afternoon tea on day 4 • Tour Leader • Guest Speaker • Excursions as described with entrance fees • Transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Please note: Due to the layout of the hotel and grounds, we do not recommend this tour for those with walking difficulties.
Raemoir House
For the duration of our tour we have taken over this fine house which is located close to the town of Banchory. Only forty minutes from Aberdeen, this beautiful early 19th century country house, which sits within 14 acres of private parkland, is both elegant and commodious making it the perfect location in which to enjoy Highland hospitality. A total of 18 en-suite bedrooms, split between the main building and the adjacent Ha Hoose (Hall House) makes for the perfect size house party. The bedrooms are large and beautifully furnished, many with period furniture and some have splendid views through large Georgian windows. Having this delightful property for our sole use allows us to plan mealtimes to suit our programme and provides access to the many beautiful sitting rooms including the impressive Oval Room, panelled drawing room, Garden Room and grand Georgian Room. The award-winning kitchen will provide breakfast and dinner from locally sourced providers and specially selected wines will be served with dinner each evening.
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Hotel Directory
Hotel Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the hotel or click on the booklet to download. Raemoir House is a beautiful Georgian mansion nestled in the stunning countryside of Royal Deeside within 14 acres of private parkland. The original house on the site, the Ha Hoose (Hall House), is situated to the rear of the main building and was built in 1690. A hundred years later the Innes and Hogg families constructed the Main House and in 1817 Raemoir House was complete. In 1943 the house was opened as a respite home for those injured in the war before it was eventually converted into guest accommodation.
The house’s 18 en-suite bedrooms, split between the main building and the adjacent Ha Hoose, are beautifully decorated and offer views over the surrounding grounds. The onsite facilities include an award-winning restaurant, whisky bar and classically appointed public rooms such as the impressive Oval Room, panelled drawing room, Garden Room and grand Georgian Room. The friendly, professional staff will do their utmost to ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay at this historic house.
ADDRESS
Raemoir House, Banchory, Aberdeenshire AB31 4ED
BEDDING, BLANKETS & PILLOWS
The Housekeeper will be pleased to provide extra pillows, blankets, towels and sheets upon request. Please advise Noble Caledonia in advance if you require non-feathered bedding.
BOOKS
There is a selection of books available for guests located in the hallway on the first floor. These are for the benefit of all guests so please return any books once you have finished with them.
CHECK IN/CHECK OUT
Check in time is from 3:00pm and check out is by 11:00am. Early check in and late check out may be requested at an additional cost.
COMMUNICATIONS
To contact the house please call 01330 824884 or email house@raemoir.com. There is a phone in your room which has access to an outside line. Outgoing call costs will be advised by Reception.
DAILY PROGRAMME
Your Tour Leader will confirm the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities the previous evening.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free or low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department at Noble Caledonia. We regret that not all dietary requests can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once you have checked in, please speak to the Maitre D’ at dinner on your first night to reconfirm your requirements.
DINING & DRINKING
Breakfast and dinner will be served in the Oval Ballroom, commanding views of the front grounds and featuring a magnificent open fireplace and Grand Chandelier. Mealtimes will be advised in the daily programme to fit in with the excursion arrangements each day. The Big Fish Bar will be open each evening before and after dinner and includes a wide variety of whiskies as well as other local and international drinks.
DOCTOR
Please contact Reception should you require a doctor. The nearest hospital with Accident and Emergency provision is the Aberdeen Royal Infirmary (phone number 0345 456 6000) which is approximately a 35 minute drive away.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURE
In the unlikely event that an emergency should occur during your stay, we ask that you remain calm and follow the instructions of the staff. We request that as soon as you enter your room, you carefully read the safety instructions fixed on the inside of your bedroom door. Guests with disabilities, including impaired sight or hearing should advise Reception upon arrival, so that special attention can be given in the event of an emergency.
END OF STAY QUESTIONNAIRE
We are always looking for ways to improve our holidays and the services provided and in order to do this we welcome feedback from our guests. Your comments are important to us therefore we request that you complete the questionnaire that will be provided to you by your Tour Leader.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.
GROUNDS
The house sits in 14 acres of private and secluded grounds and is surrounded by 4000 acres of Estate. Please feel free to make use of these grounds but bear in mind that the house is surrounded by working tenanted farms and due care should be taken.
KEYS & LATE ACCESS
The front door is locked every night however there is a Night Porter on duty. If you intend not to return to the house until after midnight, please leave your key and let Reception know in advance so that they know to expect you as the Night Porter’s duties may take him out of earshot of the front door.
LAUNDRY SERVICE
An outsourced laundry service is available from the house. Laundry bags and a price list can be found inside the wardrobe in your room. Please fill in the laundry list and deliver your items to be laundered to Reception.
LIFT
There are no lifts at Raemoir House.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you check out, please check your room to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia or Raemoir House. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection, and any costs incurred will be at your own expense.
MAIL
Letters or postcards can be left at Reception and the team will be happy to assist with postage. Stamps are available for purchase and the Royal Mail collects from the main Reception at approximately 9:00am each day.
NEWSPAPERS
Guests are welcome to read the papers and magazines which are available in the Sitting Room.
PARKING
Free parking is available at Raemoir House. The house cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage to vehicles.
ROOM ACCOUNT
All guests will have their own “room account” once credit card details have been given to Reception on arrival. This allows you to sign for any expenses and then settle your bill at the Reception Desk at the end of your stay. Prices are shown and charged in Pounds. Your room account can be paid by: • Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard or American Express) • Cash (Pounds)
ROOMS
The house offers 18 en-suite rooms, 14 of which are located in the Main Building and the other four in the Ha Hoose. All are individually decorated and offer a flat screen TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, tea and coffee making facilities, a hairdryer and toiletries.
Main House
The main building is comprised of three floors, situated on the ground floor are the public areas including the Reception, bar and public areas and the first and second floor are the accommodation levels.
Premium Deluxe Rooms
Raemoir (approx. 30 square metres):
This first floor room has a four poster king size bed and views over the front grounds. The spacious bathroom has both a bath and large separate walk-in shower. There are 22 steps from the main entrance to the room.
Scolty (approx. 24 square metres):
This first floor room has a four poster king size bed and views over the front grounds. The bathroom has both a bath and separate walk-in shower. There are 22 steps from the main entrance to the room, and a step up into the shower.
Deluxe Rooms
Crathes (approx. 23 square metres):
This first floor room has a king size bed and views over the front grounds. The bathroom has a bathtub with shower. There are 22 steps from the main entrance to the room.
Dunecht (approx. 24 square metres):
This first floor room has a four poster king size bed and views over the front grounds. The bathroom has a bathtub with shower. There are 31 steps from the main entrance to the room, a secondary staircase accounting for the extra nine stairs up from the first floor.
Superior Rooms
Durris (approx. 25 square metres):
This second floor room has a double bed and views over the front grounds. The bathroom has a bathtub with shower. There are 42 steps from the main entrance to the room.
Standard Rooms
Craigbeg (approx. 14 square metres):
This first floor room has a double bed and views over the side grounds. The bathroom has a bathtub with shower. There are 31 steps from the main entrance to the room, a secondary staircase accounting for the extra nine stairs up from the first floor.
Cullerlie (approx. 20 square metres):
This first floor room has a four poster king size bed and views over the side grounds. The bathroom has a walk-in shower. There are 22 steps from the main entrance to the room.
Glassel (approx. 16 square metres):
This first floor room has a double bed and is at the back of the house with views to Ha Hoose and the rear grounds. The bathroom has a bathtub with shower. There are 22 steps from the main entrance to the room.
Campfield (approx. 16 square metres):
This first floor room has a double bed and is at the back of the house with woodland views. The bathroom has a bathtub with shower. There are 22 steps from the main entrance to the room.
Brockton (approx. 13 square metres):
This second floor room has a double bed and is at the back of the house with views to the rear of the house. The bathroom has a bathtub with shower. There are 42 steps from the main entrance to the room.
Clachnaben (approx. 19 square metres):
This first floor room has a king size bed (that can also be arranged as a twin) and is at the back of the house with woodland views. The bathroom has both a bath and separate walk-in shower. There are 22 steps from the main entrance to the room, and a step up into the shower.
Cowdray (approx. 20 square metres):
This second floor room has a king size bed (that can also be arranged as a twin) and views over the front grounds. The bathroom has a bathtub with shower. There are 42 steps from the main entrance to the room.
Ha Hoose
The original building at Raemoir House dating back to 1690, this characterful property is made of granite stone and is situated to the rear of the Main House. It is a level, 50 metre walk from the main entrance and there are three low steps to access the building.
Suites
Morven (bedroom approx. 18 square metres and sitting area approx. 16 square metres):
This ground floor room has a king size bed and separate seating area with views over the back lawn and the Main House. The bathroom has a walk-in shower.
Spybrae (bedroom approx. 22 square metres and sitting area approx. 15 square metres):
This first floor room has a king size bed (that can also be arranged as a twin), a separate seating area and views over the back lawn and the Main House. The bathroom has a bathtub with shower. There are 17 steps from Ha Hoose’s front door to the room.
Standard Rooms
Larnach (approx. 18 square metres):
This ground floor room has a king size bed (that can also be arranged as a twin) and views over the back lawn and the Main House. The bathroom has a walk-in shower.
Learney (approx. 22 square metres):
This first floor room has a double bed and views of the back lawn and the Main House. The bathroom has a bathtub with shower. There are 17 steps from Ha Hoose’s front door to the room. SAFE Valuable items can be deposited in the hotel safe at Reception.
SMOKING POLICY
Smoking is not permitted anywhere inside the house. Please make use of the ash box at the front door, refrain from dropping cigarette butts on the ground and consider non-smoking guests that may be passing through the front door.
TAXIS
Taxi and car hire bookings can be made through Reception.
TELEPHONE DIRECTORY
Reception – Lift the receiver and press 0
Outside Calls – Lift the receiver and press 9. Outside calls are charged at 50p for the first minute, then 35p per minute thereafter.
TELEVISION
All guest rooms are equipped with a flat-screen television that has access to satellite TV.
WATER
Water from the taps in your room is potable, and a refillable glass bottle is provided. In an effort to reduce plastic usage we recommend bringing a separate refillable bottle to take on excursions.
WI-FI
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the house under the name RAEMOIR WIFI. The limited broadband service from Banchory exchange combined with the thick granite walls of the building mean that internet access can sometimes be erratic. Please let Reception know if you are experiencing persistent difficulties.
Please note: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
Travelling with You
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Chantal Cookson
Chantal was born in Suffolk very near the sea and now lives in Northumberland where her husband farms and when possible, they go to their cottage in Suffolk. Chantal has been associated with Noble Caledonia since the company was founded in 1991 and was part of the Expedition Team for many years on the MS Caledonian Star and has led tours, be it cruising or land, all over the world, including the Antarctic in 1999, aboard the Caledonian Star on her first voyage there and in 2017 was aboard the MS Island Sky on her first voyage to the Antarctic. Chantal’s initial experience of cruising was in British waters in 1991 when Noble Caledonia did the first cruise around the British Isles, which was a ground breaking voyage and led to a very successful and popular concept. Though her main job for over 25 years was working for Sotheby’s, she is now a Travel and Fine Art Consultant intertwining in her busy life still working periodically as part of the Noble Caledonia Expedition Team and also as a Tour Leader on Land Tours. From the Arctic to the Antarctica, South America to Australia, Africa, India, The Seychelles, Indonesian Islands and many other destinations including many times the West Coast of Scotland, she has been able to pursue her love of the oceans, zodiacing and photography. Chantal is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.
Chantal Cookson will be on the following tour dates: 19 to 24 July 2020 -
David Mitchell
David Mitchell was previously a Curator at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and is now an Honorary Research Associate. He is Director and Curator at Muddy Feet Consultants, an environmental education company specialising in landscape assessment, project development, horticulture, interpretation and exhibitions. He has spent thirty years in private and public consultancy with organisations including The National Archives of Scotland, The National Galleries of Scotland, The Royal Collections Trust, The National Trust for Scotland and the Royal Zoological Society for Scotland. He has extensive broadcasting experience in television and radio with the BBC, STV and Channel Four; augmented by global involvement as an Expedition Lecturer for Noble Caledonia, the National Trust for Scotland and the American Ivy League Universities of Harvard, Dartmouth and Brown. He is currently Chairman of Scotland’s Gardens, a Trustee of the Pitlochry Festival Theatre, the Hidden Garden Glasgow and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture and the Royal Geographical Society.
David Mitchell will be on the following tour dates: 19 to 24 July 2020
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Book with Confidence
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