🏰 What Is the Bass?

The Bass is a large grassy mound beside the River Don in Inverurie. It is the remains of a very old castle called a motte‑and‑bailey castle. The castle was built around 900 years ago, in the 1100s. Today, only the earth mound is left, but long ago there would have been wooden buildings on top.

⛰️ Why Was the Castle Built Here?

The Bass was built close to where the River Don and the River Urie meet. From the top of the mound, people could see a long way along the rivers. This made it a good place to spot visitors or danger coming towards the town. Rivers were important routes in the past, just like roads are today.

🏠 What Was a Motte‑and‑Bailey Castle?

A motte‑and‑bailey castle had two main parts.
The motte was the high mound with a wooden tower on top.
The bailey was a lower area beside it where people lived and worked.
The Bass of Inverurie is one of the best places in Scotland to still see this type of castle shape today.

👑 Who Used the Bass?

The castle at the Bass was used by important local rulers called the Earls of Garioch. It was an important centre for the area in medieval times. The site is also linked to famous Scottish history, including the time of Robert the Bruce, who used the castle before a nearby battle in 1308.

🌿 What Can You See Today?

Today, the Bass is a peaceful place with grass, trees and paths. You can still see the tall mound and the shape of the old castle. Nearby, there are also Pictish stones, which are even older than the castle. The area is now part of a cemetery and riverside walk, where history and nature sit side by side.

👀 Did You Know?

The Bass is protected as an important historic site, which means it is carefully looked after so people can enjoy it now and in the future.

For more information about the BASS visit the Garioch Heritage Society.