Thirlestane Castle |
||||||||||
|
Thirlestane, one of the oldest and finest castles in Scotland is set in lovely Border hills at Lauder, 28 miles south of Edinburgh and 68 miles north of Newcastle, on the A68.
Built originally as a defensive fort in the 13th century it was re-built in the 16th century as the home of the Maitlands. As the seat of the Earls and Duke of Lauderdale it was enlarged and embellished over the centuries but it still remains home to the Maitland family - the Duke's ghost is said to haunt the castle.
- See the Panelled Room and the library with their defensive walls up to 13' thick.
- Absorb the atmosphere of the Billiard Room with its fascinating salmon fly screen.
- Climb the ancient turnpike stair to the Duke's Suite, including the incomparable 17th century plasterwork ceilings.
- Relish the splendour of the Green Drawing Room and the Ante Drawing Room with their exquisite ceilings and joinery.
- Meet the Maitlands through the portrait collection in the State Dining Room and discover some of their fascinating treasures.
- Sink into nostalgia as you enter the Family Nurseries with their unique collection of historic toys. Some are in replica form for children to use and dipping into the dressing up chest can create some memorable moments on a family holiday.
- Discover the old Kitchens and Laundries, and explore the Border Country Life exhibitions showing domestic, sporting and agricultural life over centuries.
There is much more to see at Thirlestane than in many historic homes so please allow plenty of time for your visit.
| Video | |
|
|
|
|
Opening Times
|
|
(2011 times)
May & June:Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays 10.00am last admission 3.00pm. July and August: Daily except Fridays and Saturdays 10.00am last admission 3.00pm. September until 25th: Sunday, Wednesday and Thursday 10.00am - last admission 3.00pm. Open all year round for pre-booked groups Minimum charge applies 20 persons or £160.00 |
|
Admission Charges
|
|
(2011 prices)
Castle and GroundsAdult £10.00; Senior Citizen £7.00; Child £6.00 Family (2+3) £25.00. Group Rates (18+) Adult £8.00 per person. Grounds Only: Adult £3.00; Child £1.50. |
|
Directions
|
| On A68 Edinburgh to Carlisle road at Lauder. |
| Show map of Thirlestane Castle... |
|
Thirlestane Castle Postcode for SatNav: TD2 6RU |
|
Nearby Attractions
|
|
Abbotsford House
(8 Miles)*
Abbotsford is the house built and lived in by Sir Walter Scott, the 19th century novelist, and author of timeless classics such as Waverley, Rob Roy, Ivanhoe and The Lady of the Lake. |
|
Harmony Garden
(8 Miles)*
A delightfully tranquil walled garden comprising lawns, herbaceous and mixed borders, vegetable and fruit areas, and a rich display of spring bulbs. |
|
Melrose Abbey
(8 Miles)*
Melrose Abbey is probably the most famous ruin in Scotland. It was founded by David I around 1136 as a Cistercian abbey, but largely destroyed by Richard II's English army in 1385. |
| more attractions in Lauder and things to do in Lauder ... |
| more things to do in the Scottish Borders and days out in the Scottish Borders... |
|
Nearby Hotels
|
|
Nearby Self Catering
|
|
National Trust | Estate Agents |
Copyright © 1999-2012 Excelsior Information Systems Limited.
All rights reserved.
Press Room Terms of Use Privacy Link to Us Index Site Map
