Thirlestane Castle
Spectacular Borders house with magnificent interiors set in a meadow landscape.
Lauder, Berwickshire, TD2 6RU
Facilities
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Accessible loos
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Accessible parking
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Easily accessible without car
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EV charging options
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Facilities for children
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Free parking
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Parkland / open spaces
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Picnic area
- Guide dogs welcome
- Wheelchair ramps/routes
- Accessible toilets
- Access statement available
- Accessible parking
Join one of our exceptional guided tours where Thirlestane is brought to life through incredible stories about the Castle’s history and the key role the Maitland family have held in Scotland over four centuries.
Small groups of guests are taken on a journey by our experienced guides who share their vast knowledge in an engaging and entertaining style. They take the upmost pride in ensuring each tour has a personal touch and invite guests to join them for a complimentary hot refreshment and a Scottish treat to complete the memorable experience.
Dating back to the 16th century, Thirlestane Castle is one of the oldest and finest inhabited castles in Scotland. It is the ancient seat of the Earls and Duke of Lauderdale and has been home to the Maitland family for over 400 years.
Discover fascinating collections and connections to famous historic figures, including the connection to Bonnie Prince Charlie and Mary Queen of Scots.
Explore the splendid State Rooms with their exquisite 17th century Dunsterfield gold-gilded ceilings and one of the most extensive family collections of portraits and busts in Scotland. The latest tour addition includes the enchanting Toy Museum ‘School Room’, featuring an impressive collection of over 1,000 Georgian, Edwardian, and Victorian toys.
Make more unforgettable memories at one of Thirlestane’s exciting events including the showstopping BVAC Classic Festival of Motoring, decadent Afternoon Tea, specialist tours and more.
Extend your time at Thirlestane by staying in the luxury castle suites, available to be taken individually or as a group for up to sixteen people.
Alternatively, enjoy the ultimate rural retreat in a cosy woodland lodge nestled on the Lauderdale Estate, each with a private hot tub.
Thirlestane Castle is also available for exclusive hire and is the perfect location for those special occasions in your life. From spectacular weddings to unforgettable birthday celebrations, holding an event at Thirlestane Castle will have your guests reminiscing for years to come.
Credit to Phil Wilkinson Photography for all photographs
Important information: opening info is generated by artificial intelligence; check specific attraction details before travelling.
The indicator above will show ‘open’ when the public have any kind of access to any part of this property. That could be the park, a shop, or a special event, and may not reflect regular admission times to the main attraction. Always consult the website of the house or garden you intend to visit before travelling to check that the attraction you are interested in is open.
Thirlestane Castle, a historic 16th-century castle located in the Scottish Borders, offers a variety of experiences and attractions for visitors. Below is a detailed summary of its opening times and offerings:
Castle Opening Times
The Castle will re-open for scheduled public tours from Monday, 20 April 2026 to Sunday, 18 October 2026. During this period, visitors can enjoy guided tours of the castle, which include a complimentary hot drink and a Scottish treat.
Private guided tours are available year-round, subject to availability. These tours must be pre-booked and can be tailored to include specific interests such as art, architecture, or the history of the Maitland family.
Grounds and Estate
The estate and grounds will re-open to the public from Monday, 20 April 2026 to Sunday, 18 October 2026. Grounds passes can be purchased online or at the kiosk, allowing access to walking routes, the Riverside and Castle Walk, and a small play park. Grounds passes are available from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM during the open season.
Special Experiences
- Afternoon Tea & Tour: Available from Spring 2026, this experience combines a guided tour with a selection of sweet and savory treats served in the Victorian Kitchen.
- Horse Riding Holidays: Week-long horse riding adventures are available on specific dates in 2026, with accommodations in the castle's South Wing.
- Country Pursuits: Activities such as shooting, fishing, and archery are available year-round for castle residents, subject to availability and advance booking.
Accommodation
The castle offers 5-star luxury accommodations year-round, including individually decorated suites and woodland lodges. Guests can also enjoy bespoke dining and activities during their stay.
Events
Thirlestane Castle hosts an annual program of events, including art exhibitions, open-air theatre shows, and the BVAC Classic Festival of Motoring. Details for the 2026 events program will be announced closer to the date.
By visiting Thirlestane Castle, you are supporting the preservation of this historic building and its collections. Thank you for your support!
Pre-booking of guided tours is highly recommended. This can be done at our website.
Guided Tour Prices:
Guided Tour Prices:
Adult: £16.50
Child: £5.00
Family (2 Adults and up to 3 Children): £35.00
Grounds Pass £3.50
Group Rate £12.50
Historic Houses Members: Free
Young Scot £1.00
Thirlestane Castle welcomes pre-booked group tours year round.
The friendly and flexible team at Thirlestane Castle prides itself on a warm welcome to group tours and we do our utmost to tailor tours to suit any group and requirements.
The local, experienced and entertaining guides have a wealth of knowledge about the Castle and bring the fascinating history to life.
- Guide dogs welcome
- Wheelchair ramps/routes
- Accessible toilets
- Access statement available
- Accessible parking
Getting here
Lauder, Berwickshire, TD2 6RU
Thirlestane Castle is just off the A68 on the south side of the pretty town of Lauder, just 35 minutes south of Edinburgh. Follow the brown tourist signs once at Lauder. The main entrance is through the large Eagle Gates on the B6362.
Visitors can get the train to Stow then it is a 15-minute taxi journey to the castle.
Border Buses 51 and 52 from Edinburgh and Kelso/Jedburgh stop just outside the castle.
What3words: the main visitor entrance is at ///kite.dabbling.caveman
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