With summer finally in full swing, what better way to make the most of our favourite British season than a weekend getaway.

The Scottish Borders is a hive of activity throughout the summer months. From the traditional common riding to outstanding events, it is a true celebration of Scottish history and culture.

If you’re looking for a unique and memorable experience over the coming months, then you may want to take advantage of the rare summer weekend availability that recently opened up for some of our luxury castle suites.

This is the perfect opportunity to explore some of Scotland’s hidden gems while enjoying the ultimate Castle stay.

Accommodation Highlight: The Lauderdale

One of the suites with availability this summer is the Lauderdale. This well-proportioned one-bedroom suite’s baronial style celebrates Thirlestane’s history and strong family connections.

With a statement bed embellished in the Maitland family tartan, this sumptuous suite offers the perfect chance to reconnect with your Scottish ancestry. The grandeur continues into the bathroom with a luxurious free-standing roll-top bath taking centre stage: the ultimate opportunity to relax and recharge.

Summer Nights at the Castle

We welcome the long, balmy summer evenings with open arms. Our outdoor theatre events are the perfect excuse to make the most of the warm nights with family and friends.

We’ve got two fantastic shows coming up this summer, kicking things off on the 11th August with Murder on the Improvised Express by Pinch Punch Productions, a hilarious fully improvised murder mystery where the audience must help solve the case! With the sumptuous two-bedroomed Maitland Suite available from the 11th-14th August, why not make a weekend of it?

On the 18th August we’re also looking forward to Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, presented by the world’s first cycling theatre company, The HandleBards. Expect riotous energy, a little bit of chaos and a great deal of laughter during this environmentally sustainable production. The grand Earl & Countess is available for that date if you’d like to extend your visit.

An Authentic Scottish Experience

Each summer, the Scottish Border towns are transformed into a celebration of common ridings, local history and heritage, continuing a tradition dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. Present day celebrations feature historical costume, unique traditions and spectacular rideouts of hundreds of horses.

Lauder’s own common riding is Saturday 6th August, providing the ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in Scottish history during a weekend break at Thirlestane.