Aberdeenshire is graced by many historic castles, but Tolquhon is one of the most picturesque. It served as a noble residence for some 300 years. The oldest part is the stump of an early 15th-century tower house, probably built by one of the Prestons of Formartine, who once held the barony. However, the castle visitors can see today was built by Sir William Forbes, 7th Lord of Tolquhon. In 1584, he instigated a comprehensive rebuilding programme which, when completed six years later, gave to William and his spouse, Elizabeth, a house that was amongst the finest of its day.
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