Welcome to Thirlestane Castle – a magnificent 16th century castle set within the beautiful Lauderdale Estate in the Scottish Borders.
Historic home of the Duke of Lauderdale, the Castle is one of the oldest and finest in Scotland and still remains home to the Maitland family today.
We offer luxury accommodation in the castle and on the estate, exclusive use, guided tours and an impressive setting for events including weddings and private dining.
Private guided tours and group visits can be pre-arranged at any time of the year – please contact the office here to organise. The Castle accommodation is open as always.
The Castle opens for public tours in May 2025.
Thirlestane Castle is a Charitable Trust and by coming here you are supporting this historic building and its collections – Thank You!
HOME TO THE MAITLAND FAMILY
Visit
Discover fascinating collections and stories with one of our exceptional guides. Explore the Castle’s connection to Bonnie Prince Charlie and Mary Queen of Scots. Marvel at some of the finest plasterwork ceilings and one of the most extensive family portrait collections in the country.
Private guided tours and group visits can be pre-arranged at any time of the year. The Castle opens for public tours in May 2025.
HOME OF MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES
Experience
Make it Memorable! Dine in the Castle State Rooms or take part in some wild outdoor activities or country pursuits on the wider estate. Horse ride the route of the Common Riding, let us organise a spot of fishing on the Tweed, or a spa experience followed by afternoon tea.
5-STAR CASTLE ACCOMMODATION
Stay
Our unrivalled accommodation is uniquely decorated and finished to a 5-star standard. Each castle suite provides exceptional views over the parkland and estate and can either be booked individually or altogether by a group of up to 16 people. Breakfast hampers, cocktails, local produce – we have it covered. Or, if you want to get back to nature check out our estate Woodland Lodges.
AS FEATURED IN
A journey through history
Home to the Maitland family for over 400 years
Thirlestane Castle and the Maitland family have played an important role in the political and military history of Scotland. As the historic seat of the Duke of Lauderdale, it has been home to the Maitland family for over 400 years. The history of the ground upon which Thirlestane Castle now stands dates back to at least the 12th Century. The central part of the present castle was completed in 1590, remodelled in the 1670s and then enlarged in the 1840s. Today, the Castle continues to evolve with thanks to funding and the generous donations from our supporters. To find out more about becoming a Patron of Thirlestane Castle Trust, click here to visit our Support page.
May We Recommend
Life at Thirlestane
The Creation of Thirlestane Castle
Thirlestane Castle has been the ancestral home of the Maitland family since 1590. In 1590, John Maitland, Chancellor of Scotland under James VI, was ennobled [...]
Antiques Roadshow at Thirlestane Castle
The Thirlestane team were delighted to welcome the Antiques Roadshow in July as part of the 47th series of the award-winning programme. This episode has [...]
Sam and Liza
Sam and Liza travelled from Philadelphia, USA, to be married at Thirlestane Castle as a connection to their Scottish heritage. Their parents played a [...]
