Octagon Observatory, Invercauld Road, Braemar

This is a later 19th century octagonal observatory located on the green at the centre of Castleton, Braemar. Constructed with a granite base course, the building has a timber frame with boarded walls and glazed upper panels. A multi-pane timber door is located on the south side. The roof is covered with fishscale and bull-nosed grey slates, featuring lead flashings, and is topped by a large octagonal louvred cupola surmounted by a weather vane. The observatory is an unusual and prominent feature of the village streetscape. Established in 1856, it was the first purpose-built meteorological station in the area, founded with the encouragement of Prince Albert, who donated a set of instruments by Negretti and Zambra, London. The construction was financed by Mr Farquharson of Invercauld. Its connections with the Royal Family and Balmoral contribute to its significance.