New Slains Castle, Aberdeenshire

Thought to be the inspiration for Bram Stoker's castle of Count Dracula. Overlooking the North Sea just north of Cruden Bay.

Francis Hay, 9th Earl of Erroll, built the castle following the rebellion of 1594, and his family lived here for over 300 years. The castle was sold in 1916 and fell into despair. It does make for a dramatic cliff top setting.

We awoke to 5 inches of snow and had to do some shovelling before deciding on a coastal drive. Visited the seaside village of Collieston, and the castle, before enjoying tea and freshly made scones with friends in Newburgh.