Aberdeen to Fraserburgh Road

The road that leads to Ardgrain was once the main Aberdeen to Fraserburgh route, which passed through the market town of Ellon before winding its way northwards

The main Fraserburgh road would have been a prominent position to site a Baronial house like Ardgrain, commanding views down the hill towards Ellon and beyond. Centuries after Ardgrain was built, a new road was to Fraserburgh was constructed, a few miles away. From Ardgrain onwards, the old Fraserburgh road today becomes a rough track, better suited to mountain bikes, quads and horses.

Ardgrain Track

Leading from this old Fraserburgh road is the gravel track to Ardgrain, which is some 250 metres long. The Ardgrain track is lined on each side by rough granite drystone walls, and circles round the back of the main house, before entering into the enclosed courtyard.

Ardgrain Track

The Ardgrain Name

Ardgrain

From its earliest Celtic origins, the name Ardgrain has slowly evolved over time while remaining easily recognisable and totally unique

Celtic Origins

The name Ardgrain has gradually evolved and changed in spelling over the past centuries. With few people able to write, many references to Ardgrain were transcribed from word of mouth, and local accents and changing dialects have played a part in the various spellings. Read more »

Alexander Seaton Ratification (1681)

Ratification in favour of Sir Alexander Seton of Pitmedden

Scottish parliment records from 28th July 1681, which feature the Barony of Ardgrain. At the time of King James II, these texts describe a ratification in favour of Sir Alex Seton of Pitmedden. Read more »

Ardgrain History

Ardgrain Texts

Fascinating extracts from charters and texts of an Ardgrain centuries ago

As a Feudal Barony, events surrounding Ardgrain were often documented in texts, charters and other important documents.

Many of these Ardgrain texts still exist, but remain hidden within dusty volumes or in private collections. Occasionally when researching the history of Ardgrain we come across interesting snippets of text which offer a glimpse into Ardgrains past. Read more »