Thirlestane Castle
Lauder, Berwickshire, Scotland
Exclusive Use
You can have the venue to yourself, sleeps 16 guests in 8 rooms
First built in the 13th century, and then rebuilt in the 16th century as the home of the Maitland family, Thirlestane Castle sits amidst a quiet meadow landscape in lowland Scotland, yet is only 25 miles south of Edinburgh.
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders, guests can discover historic battlegrounds, charming local market towns which are the heartland of distilling and textiles, outstanding areas of natural beauty and several incredible Scottish landmarks.
The South Wing at Thirlestane Castle offers spacious, luxurious accommodation for groups of up to sixteen people. Each room has been finished to a five-star standard with exceptional views of the parkland and estate.
Private Use of The South Wing
Perfect for a family holiday or to celebrate a special occasion, The South Wing allows groups of up to sixteen people to take all the accommodation at Thirlestane Castle on a catered or self-catered basis.
Bedrooms
Accommodation consists of five luxury apartments, in total offering eight luxurious double rooms, each with its own private bathroom. The rooms have been decorated in a classic, but contemporary style with items from the castle collections, including portraits and furniture.
Of the eight bedrooms, three can be twin or super-king, one super-king only and four king-size. There are also eight bathrooms, two have a shower only, four have a bath with shower over and two have a free-standing bath with separate shower.
The Earl & Countess Apartment – EPC rating D
Glenburnie Apartment – EPC rating C
The Lauderdale Apartment – EPC rating F
The Maitland – EPC rating G
The Sculleries – EPC rating D
Dining
Along with the kitchens in the apartments, guests have access to the castle’s Victorian kitchen, a central dining space which features the original range and views of the castle gardens. You can choose to self-cater or award-winning caterers can be brought in to cook for you.
In addition, access to the rustic vaulted cellar is included – complete with a bar, cosy seating area and wood burning stove; the perfect spot to play games with the family or to enjoy a dram of Scottish whisky after dinner!
Luxury Extras
Additional activities can be added, such as horse-riding, archery, falconry, Highland games, spa treatments or a tour of the Border towns.
Children are very welcome, with high chairs and travel cots provided for younger guests.
Three-night Ultimate Castle Experience
The Ultimate Castle Experience delivers an unforgettable 3-night stay that includes private use of The South Wing, plus a luxury dining experience.
Dine like an Earl or Countess in the breath-taking State Dining Room, which boasts intricate plasterwork ceilings and one of the largest collections of family portraits in the country.
Award-winning chefs will work with you to design your perfect 3-course menu. The dedicated Thirlestane team can further personalise your dining experience by organising a bagpiper to pipe you into dinner or pairing wine to complement each course.
Exclusive Use of Thirlestane Castle
Planning the trip of a lifetime? What could be more memorable than a bespoke castle experience to celebrate the most special of occasions?
Thirlestane Castle and its grounds will be closed to the public so that it can be enjoyed exclusively by you and your guests. The dedicated team will create a bespoke itinerary, tailored to your wishes - making sure every detail is perfect.
Activities
Upon request, the team can organise a range of unforgettable experiences for guests. From exhilarating outdoor activities and relaxing spa treatments, to curated private tours of the Scottish Borders, make your stay extra special. All are subject to availability and advance booking is essential.
History
The history of the current Thirlestane Castle dates back to at least the 13th century, when a large Border fort was built on the site to defend the approach to Edinburgh from the south. The central part of the present castle was completed in 1590, remodelled in the 1670s and then extended in the 1840s.
Prices
Private Use of The South Wing
South Wing bookings include accommodation for up to 16 guests, use of the Victorian kitchen for self-catering and vaulted cellar as a communal area to relax. Caterers can be arranged to cook for you, quoted for separately, depending on your requirements.
| 2026 | 1/2/3 nights | 4 nights | 5 nights | 6/7 nights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low Season | £5100 | £5950 | £6450 | £6775 |
| High Season | £6750 | £7630 | £8390 | £8590 |
High-season rates apply to bookings between April and October, as well as the festive period. Prices include VAT.
Three-night Ultimate Castle Experience
Includes the entire South Wing (sleeping up to 16 guests) for 3 nights, an unforgettable dining experience in the State Dining Room, use of the Victorian kitchen and vaulted cellar, welcome packs, a tour of the castle and breakfast. Please note: other catering beyond breakfast hampers is not included, but can be arranged and will be charged for according to your requirements.
The Ultimate Castle Experience is available year round, excluding the festive period, and is priced at £9600 for 3 nights, including VAT.
Exclusive Use of Thirlestane Castle
Price available upon request, please enquire.
Reviews
9.9Location
Thirlestane Castle is located in the Lauderdale Estate in the Scottish Borders, just 35 minutes south of Edinburgh in the charming town of Lauder. A visit to the estate is an opportunity to enjoy some beautiful walking routes, offering incredible views of the surrounding area and glimpses of local wildlife.