21 September 2025 (10:30 - 15:30)
Built on the site of a Carmelite burial ground this “Gothick” structure houses the remains of the first five Earls Fife amongst others. Outside is a tomb that used to be in Banff cemetery and falsely used by the 2nd Earl to claim a family connection to Robert the Bruce. The Mausoleum is in an extremely peaceful and picturesque location above the River Deveron - so much so it has been used for weddings - but also contains several excellent examples of quite early Coade stone. Subject to weather and good fitness of visitors, directions can be given to find the other nearby points of historical and cultural interest of Mount Carmel, Hospital Island and St Mary’s “Well”.
Available at the Mausoleum will be leaflets with a map showing walks around Wrack Woods highlighting key features. A separate leaflet with the history of the Mausoleum will also be available, to supplement the information the stewards on the day get a chance to talk about.
Duff House (Historic Environment Scotland), a most magnificent fully furnished Georgian country house, will be open 10am to 12.30pm & 1.15pm to 4.30pm with an exhibition of how our local Polish community arrived just at the end of the war.
A Youtube virtual tour of the Mausoleum can be viewed here: Duff House Mausoleum
Main parking is near Duff House; most visitors are then asked to walk to the Mausoleum (about 1 mile which will be signed), either along a track or the lower footpath. There is space adjacent to the Mausoleum for just 2 cars, reserved for disabled parking. The Mausoleum is fully wheelchair accessible outside. To get to the flat floor inside there are 4 steps.

Address
Duff House Mausoleum, Wrack Woods (1 mile south of Duff House), Banff, AB45 3SX