Ellon probably derives its name from the Gaelic 'Eilean' meaning island and the town's historical significance is based on its situation at the ford on the River Ythan. The town is located at a point where the river is low enough to be forded and so for many years it was the main crossing point for traffic going to and from the Buchan area. The New Inn Hotel, located opposite the river, was previously a changeover point for horses pulling coaches between Aberdeen and Peterhead. The town was the main settlement of the Pictish province of Buchan before 400BC and in the Middle Ages the Celtic Mormaers and then the Norman (Comyn) Earls of Buchan held court and dispensed justice at the Moot Hill. This site is now marked by a monument beside the Market Street car park. Ellon was one of the places burned in the harrying of Buchan in 1308, following Robert the Bruce's defeat of the Comynes near Oldmeldrum. The ruins of Ellon Castle can be seen from various parts of the town. The castle was formerly known as the ancient fort of Ardgith and a number of castles have been built on this site. Sadly it is not currently open to the public, although the impressive Deer Dykes (12 foot high walls) around the castle grounds can be seen from Castle Road