Fordyce

Fordyce Castle

As you drive along the A98 from Cullen to Portsoy your attention tends to be drawn to the tempting signs pointing out coastal destinations such as Findlater Castle and Sandend. But keep a look out for signs pointing inland to the historic village of Fordyce, a mile or so off the main road.

St Talarican's Kirk Sculptural Park Seat

Fordyce is a magical place, a warren of narrow streets still following a medieval plan, and all wrapped around its magnificent centrepiece, Fordyce Castle, simply sitting on a bend in the village street.

The castle is actually a relative newcomer to this ancient village, being built in 1592 by Thomas Menzies of Durn, one time Provost of Aberdeen. It is a typical 16th Century L-plan tower house, three storeys high, and amply provided with gun loops and shot holes. The west wing was added some time around 1700. The castle has seen varied use over the years, including as the village school. In more recent times it has been restored and is now partly private home, partly self catering accommodation.

The origins of the village actually go back the better part of a thousand years. The Kirk next to the castle was known as St Talarican's. It dates back at least as far as 1272, but it is likely that an even earlier church existed on the site. The Kirk remained in use until 1804, when the congregation transferred to the new church at the other end of the village, next to the public car park.

Cottage

Village Street Leading to Castle

Opposite the Kirk and the castle is an attractive little park, complete with a stunning metal leaf sculpture that also serves as a circular park bench.

For visitors Fordyce offers a Victorian garden and a nearby joiner's workshop and visitor centre. But the main attraction is without any doubt the village itself. Narrow streets, lovely houses and cottages complete with gardens overflowing with roses. If you want to pass some time in a quiet and very beautiful village, then Fordyce really is worth a look.