Thirlestane Castle Lauder

One of the oldest castles in Britain, Thirlestane Castle, is located in the Border Hills, between Edinburgh and Newcastle. This fairytale castle was originally built in the 13^th century and was restored in the 16^th century to become the home of the Maitland family, who came to Britain with William the Conqueror. Later, in 1840, it was refurbished once more with the addition of two new wings. Today it is perfectly preserved and is managed by a Charitable Trust and is open to the public for tours during Easter and from May until August.

The design of Thirlestane Castle was such that it could be seen from the driveway. It is an awesome sight against the skyline with its rose sandstone. The entrance itself was impressive and shows that even as early as the 13^th century, no visitors could ride right up to the doors because of the expanse of steps leading to the terrace. Sir William Bruce designed the stone on the door itself and it has the initials of the Duke and Duchess of Lauderdale.

In the main entrance, visitors can see a model of the castle and view the extensive collection of weapons, including a sword excavated from the campgrounds of the army of Bonnie Prince Charlie. The Library, once a dining room, contains a collection of Chinese porcelain and the Billiard Room is a re-creation of an 18^th century drawing room.

Experience the opulence and grandeur of the earlier times when you enter the Duke’s Room with its ornately plastered ceilings. The corners of this room also bear the coronet of the Duke and the centre of the ceiling has the Maitland crest. See where Bonnie Prince Charlie slept after the Battle of Prestonpans. This room is furnished as it would have been in the 1800’s complete with the bell pull connected to the servants’ quarters.

The drawing room contains the most exquisite ceilings, a bust of Captain Frederick Maitland, who accepted Napoleon’s surrender and the entrance to two secret upstairs rooms. The dining room contains the portraits of the Maitland family and the family nurseries contain extensive collections of toys from the Edwardian, Victorian and Georgian eras. The Scullery and Kitchen, remaining much the same as they were in the olden days, will demonstrate the contrast between the lives of the servants and the owners.

The Border Life Museum is located in the South wing. Here you will also see exhibits and painting detailing different facets of life as it was with artefacts used in household chores, farming and sporting events that these people took part in. Other facilities at the castle include a gift shop, tearoom, and adventure playland and picnic tables where you can relax in the midst of the beautiful scenery.

Opening Times
Open Good Friday, Easter Sunday & Easter Monday 2005.
Open 1 May until 19 September 2005 :
Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays.
Open July and August 2005 : daily except Saturdays.
Times : 10.30 am; last admission 2.30 pm.

Admission
2005 Castle and Grounds
Adult £5.50 Child £3.00 Seniors £5.00 Family £15.00 Groups £4.50

Grounds only
Adult £2.00 Child £1.00 Seniors £1.50 Groups £1.50

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