A vast pink sandstone mansion, Drumlanrig is a transition between the traditional castle and the country house.
It has four towers, many turrets, and spiral stairs. It was built between 1679 and 1691 for the 1st Duke of Queensberry (Douglas) who was so incensed at the cost that he spent only one night within it, preferring the 15th-century Sanquhar Castle.
Drumlanrig Castle Tours
Tours begin in the west wing. They reach the entrance hall where arched windows overlook the courtyard with its traditional iron gate.
The inner hall contains a collection of arms, militaria, and games. The east passage leads to the stair hall, with a grand staircase.
The morning room contains a modern painting of the 9th Duchess. The dining room has wood carvings on the paneling, barometers, and silver candlestands. A spiral stair leads to Prince Charlie’s bedroom and contains a few Jacobite relics.
The drawing room is sumptuously furnished, with full-length portraits. The castle has many notable paintings, by artists like da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Holbein, and numerous antique furnishings, many of which date from the 17th century.
Drumlanrig’s grounds contain a country park, formal gardens, craft workshops, a cycle museum, and numerous walks.
Drumlanrig Castle Location
Address: Drumlanrig Castle Gallery and Gifts, Drumlanrig Mains, Thornhill, Dumfries & Galloway DG3 4AG, United Kingdom. Get help with directions: