Historic house · Cullen, Scotland
Duff House
A Georgian palace designed by William Adam from 1735 in Banff, about 20 km from Cullen. Today it is an art gallery holding works from Scotland’s national collections, and it has grounds on the banks of the River Deveron.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Duff House
Duff House is in Banff, about 20 km east of Cullen, in a park beside the River Deveron. It was designed by architect William Adam and built from 1735 for William Duff, later Earl Fife, in a baroque style with corner towers and an ornate façade.
A dispute between the owner and the architect over building costs meant the house was never completed as planned, and the family lived there only briefly. In the 20th century Duff House served as a hotel, sanatorium and military billet before being restored by the state.
Today it is managed by Historic Environment Scotland and operates as a gallery, with paintings, furniture and tapestries from Scotland’s national collections displayed in period rooms. The surrounding grounds have paths to the river and historic structures such as the family mausoleum.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour and a half to the house; longer if you include the grounds.
Best time
From spring to autumn, when opening days are usually more frequent; in winter it opens on fewer days. Check before you go.
How to get there
It is in south Banff, about 20 km east of Cullen. Buses between Aberdeen and Elgin stop in Banff, about 500 meters from the house.
Tip
Then walk through the grounds to the River Deveron and Banff bridge.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Duff House
Who designed Duff House?
The architect William Adam, from 1735, for William Duff, later Earl Fife.
What can you see at Duff House?
Period rooms with paintings, furniture and tapestries from Scotland’s national collections, plus the riverside grounds on the River Deveron.
How far is Cullen from Duff House?
About 20 km east, in Banff. There are regional buses between the two towns.
