Drum Castle is deeply rooted in Scottish history. In 1323 the castle was granted to William de Irwyn by King Robert the Bruce. The castle remained within the Irvine family until 1975, when it was handed over to the National trust of Scotland. Irvine memorabilia is shown in the Family Room and the house contains an excellent collection of portraits and good Georgian furniture.
The High Hall of the castle tower is still in its medieval state which is accessed by a narrow newel stair offering fine views from the battlements. The original house was enlarged with the creation of a very fine Jacobean mansion house in 1619 and a later addition during the reign of Queen Victoria.
The grounds contain the Old Wood of Drum ancient oak woodland with Site of Special Scientific Interest designation mixed woodlands, three way-marked walks and an arboretum. The beautiful Garden of Historic Roses is divided into quadrants that show how roses have been cultivated from the 17th to the 20th century.
The ancient oak forest adjoins the castle, providing a sense of continuity through the centuries and a home for red kites, roe deer, red squirrels and badgers.
