Ardoe House was built in 1878 on land that was gifted to Arbroath Abbey by Alexander II, Kind of Scotland, in 1244. Throughout its history the estate, which extends to about one thousand acres, is described as being in two parts - the sunny half and the shady half.
In 1839 the estate was sold to Aberdeen soap manufacturer James Ogston, whose family formerly owned extensive lands in the north of Scotland. It was his son, Alexander M Ogston, who finally brought the two halves of the estate together and built Ardoe House. The late Diana, princess of Wales is claimed to be descended from a branch of the Ogston family.
Alexander Ogston and the building of Ardoe House
In 1878 Alexander Ogston chose a prominent position on the estate to erect a large mansion house in the then popular and fashionable Scottish Baronial Style. The architect of Ardoe House was James Matthews whose prolific practice was also responsible for Drummuir, Ballindalloch and Aldourie Castles. Taking its inspiration from the nearby royal residence, Balmoral, the house is decorated and furnished throughout in an elaborate style, as an expression of Ogston’s wealth and Scottish ancestry. In these respects the house has few equals in the North.
The Ogston family coat of arms are still prominently displayed throughout the building.
Ardoe House was converted into a hotel in 1947. More information on Ardoe House Hotel can be found here.