Drum Castle lived up to its name yesterday as it hosted a drumming festival to celebrate the official opening of its restored mediaeval tower.
Drums reverberated around the gardens of the ancient stronghold, near Banchory, where hundreds gathered to watch the 14th century tower re-opened.
Vital conservation work got underway last year to tackle an ongoing problem with damp, which was damaging the Victorian library and its extensive collection of books.
The £700,000 project involved work to remove cement pointing and replace it with traditional breathable lime mortar.
Archaeological excavations also revealed several previously-unknown chambers hidden within the walls.
Project manager for the restoration, Ian Davidson, said the discovery of a buttery, where the lairds’ wine would have been stored, a pantry, and a mediaeval toilet gave a real insight into life at the castle.
During yesterday’s ceremony, David Irvine of Drum, whose ancestor William de Irwyn was granted the castle and grounds by King Robert the Bruce in 1325, handed the tower key to Sir Kenneth Calman, chairman of the National Trust for Scotland, who in turn opened the door.
Sir Kenneth said: “It is absolutely remarkable.
“They were looking to solve a damp problem and in doing so the discovered all sorts of amazing things.
“This is about Scotland’s heritage and about encouraging people to become a part of that heritage.”
The project was made possible by the support of an anonymous donor and Historic Scotland.
Throughout the day, a steady stream of visitors wound up and down the narrow stone staircase of the tower, and wandered through the grounds enjoying musical workshops and performances as part of Drum Beat – The Homecoming.
The festival, which could become an annual event, included a variety of workshops and performances ranging from African to street style drumming.
It was headlined by drummer Ash Soan, who has played for pop stars including Adele, Lily Allen and Cher, and was enjoying his first trip to the north-east.
He said: “It has been fantastic. The drive alone was beautiful but when we got here it was incredible.
“This is certainly the most spectacular venue we have played.
“I’m a bit of a history buff so I’m amazed by all this.”