Tolquhon Castle

Originally a tower-house called Preston Tower built in the 1420's for Sir John Forbes (a noble family of N.E. Scotland), the building was expanded into a grand dwelling with emphasis on luxury rather than defence between 1584 and 1589 by the 7th Laird William Forbes. The Forbes family continued to use the property until they sold it in 1518, although the 11th Laird (also called William) refused to leave and had to be escorted away by troops. From then on the building was used as a farm house through to the 1850's when it was abandoned and fell into dereliction. Now it's safe in the hands of Historic Scotland.