A History of Heritage at Thirlestane Castle
VISIT THIRLESTANE CASTLE IN SCOTLAND
Burrowed in the plush landscape of the Scottish Borders, this imposing, 16th century establishment has an extensive and fascinating history with the British aristocracy. Opulent and grand yet unmistakably Scottish, today Thirlestane Castle belongs to the Maitland family.
Less than 2 hours from our Newcastle port, take the short drive north after your Amsterdam-Newcastle ferry crossing.
Discover Authentic Scottish Culture
Take a tour of the magnificent castle, where famous Scottish figures such as Bonnie Prince Charlie are known to have stayed. Discover its many intricacies, from delicate ceiling designs, to elaborate toy collections.
The castle also holds one of Scotland’s most impressive collections of family portraits and busts. After your tour of the castle’s interior, wander the picturesque grounds, made up of wild woodlands and meadows.
The Story Behind It
The grounds upon which the current castle resides are known to date back to at least the 12th century. The initial constructs in the area were designed to defend Edinburgh from the country’s southern border.
The striking castle which you can visit today was built in the late 16th century, before renovations took place in the 17th and 19th centuries.
The Maitland family have held the Thirlestane grounds since the 13th century and the remains of the former family home are visible from nearby.
Our Routes to the UK
Amsterdam-Newcastle Ferry Crossings
Plan your 2026 getaway and make it a year of adventure, exploring all the continent has to offer. Slow down and start exploring!
15%
off 2026 sailings
Dunkirk-Dover Ferry Crossings
Sail across the English Channel with ease on a short crossing between Dunkirk and Dover.
From
£89
per car + up to 4 people, one way*
Calais-Dover Ferry Crossings
Our Calais to Dover route is the shortest crossing we provide and is the perfect way to cross the Channel to the UK.
From
£89
per car + up to 4 people, one way*
Dieppe-Newhaven Ferry Crossings
Crossing the Channel from Dieppe to Newhaven provides you with the ideal gateway to the UK.
From
£93
per car + 2 people, one way*
Travel Guides
Edinburgh
With DFDS ferries to Newcastle, it couldn’t be easier to travel Scotland for a fantastic holiday, with Edinburgh just a couple of hours’ drive from the port.
Glasgow
Situated on the River Clyde, near to Scotland’s west coast, Glasgow is the largest city in the country and holds many charms for holidaymakers looking for a city break.
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond is a true treat for lovers of the outdoors, with an incredible variety of geology, flora and wildlife to see.
Cairngorms
The Cairngorms National Park, in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, was voted one of the top 20 places to visit in the world.
Prices are subject to availability. Telephone booking fees apply. Terms and conditions apply.