History

The history of Glen Tanar goes much further back than the creation of the Estate in 1869 - in fact, it is literally as old as the hills. Geologists are fascinated by our rocks; the Ice Age left many interesting features; Bronze Age folk buried beautifully crafted artefacts, and more recently grain kilns and "fermtoons" bear witness to a simpler way of life.

The Estate itself was formed in the nineteenth century, when part of the lands of the Marquis of Huntly was leased, and then bought, by the Manchester merchant banker and MP, Sir William Cunliffe Brooks.

Brooks brought many changes to "The Glen": he built houses and bridges, the Tower of Ess, the Victorian Ballroom and the landscaped gardens - all of which can be seen and enjoyed today.

In 1905, Glen Tanar was bought by George Coats, later Lord Glentanar. The present owners, Michael and Claire Bruce, are the fourth generation of the family to own and care for Glen Tanar.