This is Princess Beatrice (Youngest of Queen Victoria’s Children) and her Husband Prince Henry of Battenberg. Their wedding day was 23rd July 1885. On the 18th September 1885 they came and stayed for two nights with Lord Erroll at Slains Castle, Cruden Bay. They admired the local scenery including the Fairies Pool/Bath, visited Port Erroll Harbour where the Lifeboat was launched for them and Lunched with some Locals and Dignataries back at the Castle. No doubt a Day to Remember in Port Erroll.
This photo is of Queen Victoria’s Youngest daughter Princess Beatrice and Her Husband Prince Henry of Battenberg.
On Friday 18th of September 1885, The Buchan Observer reported on the Royal Couples visit to Slains Castle, two days earlier. It reported, “Wednesday was a day which will be memorable in the Annals of the History of Cruden.” The Royal Couple travelled by Train from Ballater via Aberdeen to Ellon and continued their journey by Landau. They were greeted on route with Crowds and Bunting at Toll of Birness, The Bogbrae School Children, Residents of Hatton, Farm Servants at Auchiries Brae and Port Erroll Villagers near the West Lodge.
On drawing up to the Castle the Royal Couple were cordially greeted by Lord Erroll and conducted up the terraced steps into the Castle. After Luncheon Princess Beatrice and Prince Henry walked outside accompanied by Lord Erroll, The Countess of Erroll and Lady Florence Hay to view the grand coastal scenery including the Fairies Bath. They then proceeded along the clifftops to the recently improved and extended Port Erroll Harbour where locals greeted them.
The Lifeboat was taken out and shown to the visitors. After the visit they travelled back through the Village in Lord Erroll’s Waggonette to the cheers of the Village residents. A Guard of Honour was provided by the Cruden Company of the 3rd Volunteers Battalion Gordon Highlanders including Pipers. After the Royal Couples departure all the Volunteers who had helped on the visit were served with Tea in a local Hall, the Hospitality was provided by Lord and Lady Erroll.
A few Ladies and Gentlemen of the district who had been invited to witness the Royal Visit were entertained back in the Castle. Fortunately the weather stayed very fine throughout the visit.
