Rising from the rolling hills of Dumfries and Galloway, Drumlanrig Castle stops visitors in their tracks. This remarkable pink sandstone palace, built in the late 17th century, is where Renaissance grandeur meets Scottish resilience, creating something truly special in the process.
The castle, home to the Duke of Buccleuch and Queensberry, is an architectural marvel that would make any fairy tale princess feel at home. With 120 rooms, 17 turrets, and four towers, it’s a proper castle in every sense. But it’s the distinctive pink sandstone that really catches the eye – on a sunny day, the whole building seems to glow.
Step inside, and you’re walking through centuries of Scottish history. The castle stands on the site of an ancient Douglas stronghold, and its walls have witnessed visits from Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie (though we hear the latter’s visit wasn’t entirely welcome). These days, the interior houses something equally precious – part of the renowned Buccleuch Collection. Art lovers can feast their eyes on works by Rembrandt and Holbein, while history buffs will appreciate the antique furniture and tapestries that seem to tell their own stories.
The gardens deserve special mention – all 40 acres of them. Formal gardens blend seamlessly with wilder woodland walks, creating a perfect space for everything from gentle strolls to family adventures. The wider estate offers even more opportunities for exploration, with cycling and hiking trails threading through the stunning Scottish countryside.
For those interested in really ancient history, here’s something fascinating: in 1984, aerial photography revealed the outline of a Roman fort near the castle. It seems the Romans knew a good spot when they saw one! More recently, the castle has found fame as a filming location for “Outlander” – though we’d argue the real history is even more interesting than the fiction.
Planning a visit requires a bit of forethought. The castle itself is only open for guided tours during specific periods, so we recommend checking the official website before setting off. However, the grounds, including the stableyard and adventure playground, welcome visitors year-round. It’s worth timing your visit to catch one of the guided tours – the guides know their stuff and bring the castle’s history vividly to life.
Drumlanrig offers a unique blend of architectural grandeur, historical significance, and natural beauty. So, come and explore Scotland’s Pink Palace – This is one castle that demands to be photographed, though we’d argue it looks even better in person than in pictures.
