Thirlestane Castle
A pink sandstone castle outside Lauder, home of the Maitland family, famous for its ornate 17th-century plasterwork ceilings.
Thirlestane Castle stands outside the town of Lauder. It was built in the 16th century by the Maitland family and, in the 17th century, was remodelled into an ornate mansion by the Duke of Lauderdale. Its pink sandstone walls and corner towers are striking. The Baroque plasterwork ceilings inside are considered the finest of their kind in Britain. The castle also displays family portraits, antique toys and a nursery. Admission is about £14, and it is open on some days from roughly May to September. It is about 15 km from Melrose.
Opening hours
Approx. 10:00–15:00 (May–Sep, specific dates only)
Nearby sights
- The Great Tapestry of Scotland
- Melrose Abbey
- Priorwood Garden
- Abbotsford
- Leaderfoot Viaduct & Trimontium
- Eildon Hills
- Scott's View
- Dryburgh Abbey