The granite bastion of Crathes Castle is a classic stronghold: with tiny windows, bristling turrets, flamboyant gargoyles and cramped rooms laden with heavy antiques. But what makes the place particularly special is its authenticity. Many ceilings are beautifully painted and date as far back as 1602. The grounds are a treat too, with much impressive ancient yew-hedge topiary. Crathes is...

Harry Potter fans will immediately recognise the Jacobite Steam Train as the Hogwarts Express. The locomotive was used in the young magician’s films, as were some of the locations along the railway line – particularly the 21-arched Glenfinnan viaduct. But the line has its own history too: opened in 1901 steam trains have run here ever since (except during a...