Kinnaird is characterised by a designed landscape where riverside, loch and woodland habitats sit alongside gardens and individual buildings. The landscape covers around 1,310 acres, or 530 hectares. Its outstanding landscape value stems from its scale and its impact on the surrounding area. For planning purposes, it offers a clear mix of nature, garden history, architecture and activities on the River South Esk.
Landscape, Water and Protected Areas
The riverside, loch and woodland habitats on the Kinnaird estate are of high conservation value. The 20-acre loch was created in the 1850s for fishing and as an attraction for waterfowl. Its size and date of creation provide a specific point of reference within the extensive designed landscape.
An area of Rossie Moor on the estate is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The adjacent River South Esk is designated as a Special Area of Conservation for its salmon and freshwater pearl mussels. Independently check the information about both protected areas before visiting.
Garden and Historic Buildings
Kinnaird Castle has been the seat of the Carnegie family, the Earls of Southesk and Dukes of Fife, since 1401. The kitchen garden dates from 1790 and is now devoted to growing vegetables. This brings together two distinct points in time: the long history of the family seat and the garden’s stated use today.
The buildings also offer different points of interest. The Temple near the River South Esk is a Category B listed building. The estate is also home to the timber-framed octagonal summerhouse known as “Montrose View”. The form and construction of this building are clearly identified, while the Temple is distinguished by its Category B listing. Together, the two buildings give the architectural theme a specific and readily distinguishable character.
Fishing and Walking Routes
Kinnaird has three fishing beats on the River South Esk: Upper, Middle and Lower Beat. Together, they cover five miles of river where fishing is permitted from both banks. The three names help distinguish the individual beats. Booking and operational details may change; check them before making plans.
The estate park has laid-out paths for walks, which estate guests may use. In addition to the fishing beats, guests can therefore enjoy the park’s walking paths as a separate activity.
Holiday Apartments and Getting There
Kinnaird Castle offers two holiday apartments for guests throughout the year. Availability may change; check for your desired travel dates.
Montrose railway station is six miles from Kinnaird Castle and lies on the main line between London and Aberdeen. Train services and connections may change; check current services if you are planning to travel by rail.
For reference, Kinnaird Castle is one mile from Montrose Basin and three miles from the A90. Some entrance gates to the estate are locked; the arrival information includes the required gate codes. Confirm the gate arrangements before travelling and have the codes from the arrival information ready.
Discover more destinations: Dykehead, Kirriemuir, Tannadice, Inverkeilor, Tarfside, Tealing, Kirkton Of Glenisla, Montrose
For the broader travel guide: Angus.
