Dunnideer, sometimes spelt 'Dunnydeer' is a ruined medieval tower standing on a low hill a few miles away from Lickleyhead Castle. It's well worth a trip there if you are staying with us as it's only about five minute's drive away and it provides a nice walk. The ruin can actually be seen in the distance on a good day from our driveway as you look out over our rose garden. I will briefly go into the history of the site, tell you about my visit and provide tips on how and when to go.
It might be teeny tiny in this photo, but Dunnideer is visible on a good day looking to the left of the driveway in the grounds of Lickleyhead Castle as you start heading out.
Dunnideer Castle was probably built in the 13th century (c. 1260) on the orders of John Balliol. Some have suggested it was built a century earlier. It would likely have been a small tower used more for watch over the surrounding lands than as a serious defensive bastion. Unfortunately there doesn't seem to have been a huge amount of historical record keeping regarding the structure. Archaeological digs of the site have uncovered at least two separate lines of defence (ditches etc) that were constructed in different periods, implying that it may have remained in use through a few generations.
For fans of Braveheart and The Wars of Scottish Independence period, Dunnideer Castle is absolutely bang on the money in terms of the time period in which it would have been significant. John Balliol (whose fort it was) was one of Robert the Bruce's principal rivals for the Scottish throne. You can well imagine yourself donning some war paint and charging up the slope crying 'Freedom!!!'
From left to right: 1.Arch at Dunnideer from the rear, 2. As seen looking north, 3. The countryside looking back towards Lickleyhead Castle (unfortunately trees prevent you from seeing Lickleyhead directly)
My family and I have made it a tradition in recent years to climb the hill on Christmas Day, and that is when we last visited, on the 25th of December 2024. It was a good day as you can see. The climb isn't too onerous, making it suitable for most of the family. Our three year old made it up without too much fuss. It took us about ten minutes to climb up, making it something you could do if you just have an hour or two to kill. There are gorse bushes and other spiky plants growing in some places but the path is relatively clear. It can get muddy, so I would recommend wearing a good pair of boots. The designated car park is on the Insch side, just off Western Road. I think there's another way you can approach from the west, but I haven't tried it.
I would recommend going to Dunnideer Castle throughout most of the year. As there isn't anywhere to shelter however you should probably give it a miss on rainy days. To reach it from Lickleyhead, take the Auchleven/Insch road to Insch, turn right onto the B9002, cross the railway track, turn left onto Commercial Road then left again onto Charles Street. At the end of Charles Street turn left onto Western Road and continue until you reach the car park (on your left).
Drone footage of Dunnideer-Thanks to Harlie Raethel
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