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Visit Drumlanrig Castle
Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate is home to part of the internationally renowned Buccleuch Art Collection, and one of the family seats of the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch and Queensberry. It is also a thriving country estate providing a wealth of exciting experiences for all the family. Whether you are hurtling down a hill on a mountain bike on one of our championship MTB trails or enjoying reviving refreshments in our Tearoom we're sure we will keep you thoroughly entertained. However you choose to enjoy Drumlanrig, please, feel completely at home.
Drumlanrig Castle
Drumlanrig Castle is a fine example of late 17th century Renaissance architecture. Constructed from distinctive pink sandstone, the first Duke of Queensberry, William Douglas, had the Castle built on the site of an ancient Douglas stronghold. Robert Mylne, the King's Master Mason and his son-in-law, James Smith, are the most likely architects while the builder was William Lukup, Master of Works at Drumlanrig.
The Douglas family’s association with Drumlanrig dates back to the 14th century. Today, Drumlanrig Castle is the majestic Dumfriesshire family home to the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch and Queensberry. It is also home to part of the internationally renowned Buccleuch Art Collection featuring such treasures as Rembrandt’s The Old Woman Reading as well as many other fine paintings, tapestries and objects d’art. Grand reception rooms, magnificent staircases and ornate period features sit happily beside cosy parlours and the Stableyard, now housing the Stableyard Studios and the Stables Cafe.
Visit the Castle
Purchase online the Drumlanrig Book - The Castle, its People and its Paintings
Drumlanrig Country Estate
The Country Estate at Drumlanrig Castle is situated at the heart of the beautiful Nithsdale countryside. Outdoor enthusiasts are well catered for with many exhilarating kilometres of waymarked paths, cycle tracks and off road mountain bike (MTB) trails, each varying in gradient to suit all levels of ability. Landrover tours can also be taken in the company of our experienced Rangers to enjoy the wider estate within Nithsdale with its diversity of stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground can expect to spot prolific native wildlife along the Country Estate path network from otters and red squirrels to birds of prey. Nature lovers will also be delighted with ‘must see trees’ including the Drumlanrig Sycamore – one of the oldest in the country – and the very first Douglas Fir to be planted in the UK as well as a wealth of wildflowers and fauna.
Drumlanrig Castle Gardens
Extending to some 40 acres, the Gardens at Drumlanrig Castle are magnificent and impressive. Some of the designs date back to the early 17th and 18th centuries, such as the Long Terrace Walk, the Shawl and the East Parterre, while others have been restored using later designs. Restoration work continues on the original Cascade, once visible from the High Terrace of the Castle but seriously overgrown since its abandonment in the 1830s, while the imposing Victorian Glasshouse and historic Heather Houses remain popular visitor attractions.
Modern day additions are equally impressive and range from the sprawling Woodland Garden to the stunning Rhododendron Collection.
Visit Drumlanrig Castle Gardens
Disabled Access
Drumlanrig Castle is suitable for disabled access. There is a lift within the Castle, and the Tearoom and Stableyard, where the Visitor Centre, Cycle Museum and Cafe are can be easily accessed. There are many hard surface paths and parts of the gardens are suitable for wheelchairs but many of the woodland paths are gravel or grass and may become difficult to navigate. Anyone with a disability is asked to speak to a member of staff who will be more than happy to guide you in the right direction.
Dog Policy
Dogs are welcome here at Drumlanrig but must be kept on a lead in the car park, stableyard, gardens and policy areas. In the wider Country Park and woodlands, which provide habitat for our wildlife, we ask that they are kept close at heel and that common sense prevails. In the interests of Health and Safety, however, dogs are not permitted in the Adventure Playground. All dog excrement must be cleared up at all times and some Events do not permit dogs to take part.
Caring for the Environment
Drumlanrig Castle and Country Estate are committed to caring for the environment and are thrilled to have received a Silver Award for Green Tourism. Read about Drumlanrig's green credentials.
For opening times, admission prices and further visitor information check out Useful Information.