Spend a day discovering this magnificent Castle, revel in the exceptional guided tour, explore its extensive grounds, and enjoy a complimentary hot refreshment and a Scottish treat to complete the experience.

Every visit is unique, and every moment is as memorable as the last – come and be a part of the history.

The Castle opens for public tours from May 2024. Private guided tours can be arranged at any time of the year – please contact the office to arrange. The Castle accommodation is open as always!

A MAGICAL CASTLE WITH A RICH HISTORY

The Castle

Dating back to the 16th century, Thirlestane Castle is one of the oldest and finest inhabited castles in Scotland. Discover some of the finest decorative plasterwork ceilings in Europe, as well one of the most extensive family collections of portraits and busts in Scotland.

Guided Tours

Don’t just take our word for it. Read our reviews on TripAdvisor by clicking the button below:

We enjoyed an excellent guided tour of this splendid castle today. I thought it was excellent value, lasting an hour and a half and concluding with tea/coffee and a biscuit. Our guide was knowledgeable and we learned a lot about the family and the house itself. He also had an streak of humour which was much appreciated.

Iain B, 🇬🇧 United Kingdom

In an area of Scotland with several magnificent houses and castles, Thirlestane matches the best of them for interest and history. Owned by the same family since it was built, our guide explained the various phases of the castle’s life up to the present day. Our tour lasted one and a half hours and concluded with tea and teacake. An excellent day out in a very special place.

Alan S, United Kingdom

A friend took me on the guided tour of THIRLESTANE CASTLE and what a fantastic day it was, loved all the splendid decor and grand rooms we were shown and my favourite was seeing all the beautiful Chinese pottery and Chinese room as well as all the beautiful stunning fireplaces with stunning clocks and mirrors that decorate them .The history behind this place is truly amazing and the staff are so friendly.

Kaka, 🇬🇧 United Kingdom

WALKS & WILDLIFE

Beautiful Grounds

The Estate and Grounds will be open to the public from May 2024. Come and enjoy some beautiful walking routes, offering incredible views of the surrounding area and glimpses of local wildlife.

Protect the Legacy

The Castle is owned by a charitable trust who care for and secure the long-term future of the Castle, grounds and its collections. Every penny from donations, events and visitor income goes directly into helping to preserve this wonderful building and its unique history and heritage for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations – Thank You!

If you would like to give a donation or learn more about becoming a Patron of Thirlestane Castle Trust, click the button below to visit our Support page.

BESPOKE TOURS, CATERING, ACTIVITIES

Group Tours

Allow our experienced guides to lead you around the castle, as they impart their wisdom of the building’s unique history and esteemed collections. Each tour is bespoke and can be tailored to include dining, activities & experiences.

WHAT’S ON AT THIRLESTANE

Unmissable Events

Each year we run an exciting programme of events including art exhibitions, children’s activity camps and open-air theatre shows, not to mention the much loved annual BVAC Classic – The Festival of Motoring.

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