Museums & Galleries · Scottish Borders
Thirlestane Castle
📍 TD2 6RU
Photo: Kevin Rae (CC BY-SA 2.0), via Wikimedia Commons
- Guided tours exploring the Castle's history and collections
- Connections to Bonnie Prince Charlie and Mary Queen of Scots
- Fine plasterwork ceilings and extensive family portrait collection
- 5-star castle suites and woodland lodges on the estate
- Outdoor pursuits such as horse riding and fishing on the Tweed
Thirlestane Castle is a 16th century castle in the Scottish Borders, historic home of the Duke of Lauderdale and still home to the Maitland family today. You can join a guided tour to discover the castle's connections to Bonnie Prince Charlie and Mary Queen of Scots, admire fine plasterwork ceilings and an extensive family portrait collection, or stay overnight in the castle's 5-star suites or estate woodland lodges. The wider estate offers outdoor pursuits including horse riding and fishing. It suits history lovers, those seeking a luxury countryside stay, or groups looking for a memorable base. The castle sits in the Scottish Borders, with Stow station 5.2 miles away and eight bookable places to stay within 5 miles on BritStays.
Practical details
- Open
- The Castle is open for guided tours
- Booking
- Tickets for guided tours can be booked online
- Best for
- Those interested in history, heritage and castle stays
From the attraction's own website on 18 Oct 2026 — check before you travel.
Facilities
- ✓ Restaurant
- ✓ Guided Tours
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Create a free account to claimPlaces to stay near Thirlestane Castle
Make a proper break of it — these stays are all within 25 miles.
0.3 mi
0.3 mi
0.4 mi
0.5 mi
2.1 mi
Thirlestane Woodland Lodges
✓ Woodland lodges with views of Thirlestane Castle through the trees
Lauder, Southern Scotland
Sleeps 6
£589 per break
Check availability
3.8 mi
🗓️ Make a break of it
Turn a visit to Thirlestane Castle into a proper getaway — ready-made plans, and the drive worked out with fuel, EV charging and the best stops.
🚆 Or come by train
- Stow 5.2 miles
- Galashiels 7.6 miles
- Tweedbank 8.1 miles
Straight-line distances · live departures on each station page