King Robert the Bruce granted the lands of Leys to the Burnett family in 1323: the ancient Horn of Leys, which can be seen today in the Great Hall, marks his gift. The castle, built in the second half of the 16th century, is a superb example of a tower house of the period.
Some of the rooms retain their original painted ceilings and collections of family portraits and furniture.
A visit is enhanced by the 1.5 ha (3.75 a) of walled garden, which incorporates herbaceous borders and many unusual plants, providing
a wonderful display at all times of the year. The great yew hedges, fascinating examples of the art of topiary, date from as early as 1702.
Explore the estate on the seven waymarked trails (including one suitable for wheelchairs) that lead through the mixed woodlands,
along the Coy Burn and past the millpond. In the Visitor Centre a new exhibition, A Walk on the Wild Side, explores the wildlife on
the Crathes Estate.