
What is recorded here
Aberdeen Castle was a late Middle Ages fortification on Castle Hill, now buried beneath modern flats. Edward I stayed there in 1296 after defeating the Scots, but William Wallace returned in 1297 to burn stranded English ships and seize the castle. Robert the Bruce later besieged and destroyed the fortress in 1308, killing the English garrison to deny Edward II a foothold. The castle vanished so completely that its exact foundations remain debated, yet the violence done there helped shape Aberdeen's identity and motto.
Scotland's National Record of the Historic Environment records Aberdeen Castle as Castle (medieval), Motte (medieval)(possible). The official map says its point is accurate as follows: NGR given to the nearest 10m. The record does not by itself mean that the public may enter the place.
Aberdeen Castle was built in the late 12th or early 13th century, likely by the Bishop of Aberdeen, and later held by the Burgh of Aberdeen. It is important as a key medieval stronghold that played a strategic role in the city's defense and governance.
The historic-place record does not grant public access. Check current conditions and ownership before entering land or a building.
Places near here
Aberdeen, Castlehill, Virginia CourtBalcony Access Block (20th Century), Slab Block (20th Century) · 56 yd
Aberdeen, Castlehill, Marischal CourtBalcony Access Block (20th Century), Slab Block (20th Century) · 64 yd
Francis PeacockMemorial · 100 yd
Aberdeen, East North StreetUnidentified Pottery(s) (medieval) · 109 yd
Mercat CrossMonument · 116 yd
Bob CooneyMemorial · 118 yd
Aberdeen, Castle StreetNo Class (event) (period Unassigned) · 154 yd
Theatre LaneVisitor information · 258 yd
Aberdeen Maritime MuseumMuseum · 355 yd
Mealmarket StreetNo Class (event) (period Unassigned) · 393 yd
Provost Skene's HouseMuseum · 439 yd
Mitchell TowerCastle, fort or tower · 449 ydOther information
Photo: Ian S · CC BY-SA 2.0