Haddo House Aberdeenshire

Guided House Tours

Start your visit with a guided tour of the house. The exterior of Haddo House is a sight to behold, with its imposing facade and beautifully landscaped gardens. The interior is no less impressive, with lavish rooms filled with exquisite furniture, intricate tapestries, and priceless works of art. Visitors can explore the grand halls, drawing rooms, and bedrooms that were once home to generations of Gordon family members. The house also features a collection of historic artifacts and memorabilia that provide insight into the history and culture of the region.

The knowledgeable and friendly guides do a fantastic job of bringing history to life, sharing fascinating stories that can engage both adults and children. They often highlight quirky details that kids find intriguing, like the secret doors and hidden passageways. Some tours offer activity sheets and quizzes to keep young minds entertained, turning the exploration into a fun and educational treasure hunt.

Haddo Country Park 

After the tour, head outside to the gardens. Haddo House's gardens are a paradise for children. The delightful terrace garden, blooming with vibrant flowers, herbaceous borders, and geometric flower beds, offers plenty of space for running around and playing hide-and-seek. There's also a charming herb garden and orchard where children can learn about different plants and fruits. Don't miss the adorable statues of animals dotted around the gardens; kids love spotting them!

The parkland surrounding Haddo House is perfect for a family picnic. Bring a blanket and some snacks, and find a shady spot under one of the many ancient trees. After lunch, explore the woodland trails. These trails are great for a leisurely family walk, and they're also buggy-friendly. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife; you might spot deer, rabbits, and various birds. The nature trails also feature interactive information boards that provide fun facts about the flora and fauna of the area, making the walk both enjoyable and educational. Look out for the magnificent avenue of lime trees that leads from the mansion to the surrounding Haddo Country Park.

Children's Playground

One of the highlights for children is the adventure playground. It has swings, slides, climbing frames, and more, providing endless fun. The playground is set in a safe, enclosed area so parents can relax while the kids burn off some energy.

Special Seasonal Events

During certain times of the year, Haddo House hosts special events and activities tailored for families. From Easter egg hunts to Christmas fairs, these events often include crafts, games, and performances that keep children entertained for hours. Be sure to check their event calendar before your visit. We recommend you don't miss the Christmas carol services in the Haddo House Chapel. The family chapel is a lovely location for this festive tradition. 

Tearoom 

Before heading home, stop by the tearoom for a sweet treat. The tearoom offers a variety of delicious cakes, scones, and light meals. Kids will particularly enjoy the homemade ice cream, a perfect way to end a day of adventure.

Why we recommend Haddo House for families

Visiting Haddo House with children is a rewarding experience filled with learning, exploration, and fun. Whether it's discovering the secrets of the mansion, playing in the gardens, or enjoying a picnic in the parkland, there's something for every family member to enjoy. So pack your bags, gather the kids, and set off for a memorable day at this beautiful Scottish estate.

Reviews of Haddo House

"What a fabulous experience we had on our visit to Haddo House. The guide was absolutely brilliant. She was very entertaining, knowledgeable and extremely enthusiastic. Enjoyed every minute of it. The gardes are spectacular and the views from the house are to die for. The house is beautiful and steeped in history. I would absolutely recommend a visit, you won't be disappointed!" Ann.