SLAINS CASTLE REDEVELOPMENT, ABERDEENSHIRE
The restoration of this historic Aberdeenshire castle in a spectacular cliff-top location and its conversion into quality holiday apartments will help secure its position as a local landmark and international tourist attraction.
New Slains was expanded to its present form by architect John Smith in the 1820s and remained the home of the Errol Hay family until 1920s. Before being left to ruin, Slains Castle was visited by Boswell and Johnson. Bram Stoker was inspired by Slains to write Dracula during his stay in Cruden Bay in 1895.
A substantial amount of granite was removed from the south and west facades. Within the restored pink granite and rendered shell the restoration scheme incorporates 34 holiday apartments, the lantern and a memorabilia room which will open to the public.
Planning gain includes improved public access, restoration of the doocot, paths and repairing a local footbridge. Landscape design to restore the terraced garden will be carried out in conjunction with the Garden History Society.
