Blair Castle

Historic Houses & Building

Step back in time

BLAIR CASTLE has been the ancient home and fortress of the Earls and Dukes of Atholl for over 725 years. Its central location makes it easily accessible from all major Scottish centres in less than two hours. The castle has known the splendour of Royal visitations, submitted to occupation by opposing forces on no less than four occasions, suffered siege and changed its architectural appearance to suit the taste of successive generations. Today 32 rooms of infinite variety display beautiful furniture, fine collections of paintings, arms, armour, china, costumes, lace and embroidery, Jacobite relics and other unique treasures giving a stirring picture of Scottish life from the 16th to 20th centuries. The Duke of Atholl has the unique distinction of having the only remaining private army in Europe - The Atholl Highlanders. gardens Blair Castle is set in extensive parklands. Near the car and coach parks, there is a picnic area, a deer park and a unique two acre plantation of large trees known as `Diana's Grove.' It has been said that "it is unlikely that any other two acres in the world contain such a number of different conifers of such heights and of such small age." A restored 18th century garden re-opened to visitors in 1996. Historic Houses Association Member. OPENING TIMES SUMMER: 1 April - 29 October Daily, 10am - 6pm Last admission 5pm. (Jul & Aug: opens 9.30am). WINTER: Access by arrangement