The stately home of Haddo House was designed by William Adam in 1732 for the 2nd Earl of Aberdeen (William Gordon).
A later refurbishment was undertaken in 1880 which saw Victorian interiors blending with the Georgian architecture. Many of the original paintings, objects d’art and furniture are still displayed.

There are 85 watercolour paintings of Aberdeenshire castles at Haddo House. These were commissioned by the fourth Earl of Aberdeen and painted by Aberdeen artist James Giles. He painted them between 1838 and 1855.

A private Chapel was built in 1881.

The Gordon family continued to live in Haddo House until 1978 when the House was given over to The National Trust For Scotland.
The House and gardens was opened to the public a year later, as was the surrounding County Park, which belongs to Aberdeenshire Council.

Ecumenical Sunday evening services are still held in the Haddo House Chapel during the summer.

Weddings, receptions and private functions can be held at Haddo House and in the Chapel. Corporate events can be held in the library.

The House was built on the former site of the Castle.

Tour Of Haddo House

Touring the House is by timed appointment with a guide. Tickets should be purchased on the day in the shop in the converted stable yard.

Whilst waiting for your tour there is plenty to see around the grounds and gardens, or you can browse the well stocked gift shop or enjoy some home bakes, light snacks and delicious homemade soup and bread rolls in the Stables Restaurant. Do try their hot chocolate which is particularly delicious.

The gift shop and the restaurant sells some delicious Scottish produce to take away and enjoy such as cheeses, wine, cakes, biscuits and honey.

Whilst on the tour do look out for the 150 paintings collection of Scottish castles by James Giles, the unique long curving corridor and a fine example of an Italian double staircase.

The Gardens Of Haddo House

The tranquil Haddo Country Park surrounds the House. Leading towards the gardens and House is an avenue of impressive lime trees set amongst the lakes. There is plenty of birdlife to watch around the lakes.

Haddo House has a beautiful terrace garden with some stunning rose beds set amongst a fountain and borders.

The large rear gardens have an assortment of plants and flowers.

Behind the large car park is an open grassed area suitable for picnics and playing ball games. To the right is a dog walking area with a dog assault course.

All the garden and parkland areas are free to enter.

The Choral and Operatic Society Of Haddo House

The Wooden Hall at Haddo House plays host to some professional performances of operas and musicals such as Puccini's Turandot, Bizet's Carmen, Gilbert and Sullivan's The Mikado, Mozart's Requiem, Carol Concerts and Christmas Pantomimes.

Visit the Haddo Hall Choral and Operatic Website at www.haddochoral.org.uk

The Ghosts Of Haddo House

The youngest son of the 1st Marquis of Aberdeen, Lord Archibald Gordon, was killed in a car accident. His ghost was seen in the Premier Bedroom.

How To Get To Haddo House

From Aberdeen take the A90 to Ellon then join the B9005.

Contact Address, Telephone Number And Website For Haddo House

Haddo House
Ellon
Aberdeenshire
AB41 7EQ

Tel: (01651) 851440
National Trust For Scotland

More ghost stories from Historic Homes in Aberdeenshire.

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