Blair Castle

Blair Castle commands the strategic pass through the central Highlands at Blair Atholl, at the gateway where the Lowlands meet the Highlands. The white-harled castle has been the seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl for over 700 years and is home to a remarkable collection of furniture, paintings, arms and armour. The Duke of Atholl holds the unique distinction of maintaining Europe's only legal private army – the Atholl Highlanders.

History

The oldest part of the castle, Cumming's Tower, dates to 1269. The castle was besieged during the English Civil War and held by Government forces during the Jacobite risings – it was the last castle in Britain to be besieged, in 1746. Queen Victoria granted the Duke of Atholl the right to maintain a private army after she reviewed the Atholl Highlanders during her visit in 1844.

Visiting Blair Castle

Open seasonally, typically late March to October. The castle has 30 rooms open to the public. The grounds include the Hercules Garden, red deer park, and woodland walks. The International Highland Games take place here in May. Blair Atholl is on the A9, about 35 miles north of Perth.

Getting there

From Perth, head north on the A9 for about 35 miles and take the Blair Atholl exit. The castle is well signed from the junction. From Edinburgh, allow about 1 hour 30 minutes via the M90 and A9. There is a large car park at the castle, and it is straightforward to find.

Highlights

• Home of Europe's only private army – the Atholl Highlanders
• Last castle in Britain to be besieged (1746)
• 30 rooms open with arms, armour and fine art
• A9 location at the gateway to the Highlands

Private tours including Blair Castle

We can include Blair Castle in a private tour with a dedicated driver-guide and luxury Mercedes vehicle. Pick-up from your hotel, airport or cruise port.

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit Blair Castle?

Open seasonally, typically late March to October. The castle has 30 rooms open to the public. The grounds include the Hercules Garden, red deer park, and woodland walks. The International Highland Games take place here in May. Blair Atholl is on the A9, about 35 miles north of Perth.

When was Blair Castle built?

Blair Castle dates from 1269 onwards. It is classified as a baronial castle and stately home and is located in Blair Atholl, Perthshire.

How do I get to Blair Castle?

From Perth, head north on the A9 for about 35 miles and take the Blair Atholl exit. The castle is well signed from the junction. From Edinburgh, allow about 1 hour 30 minutes via the M90 and A9. There is a large car park at the castle, and it is straightforward to find. We also offer private tours that include Blair Castle with door-to-door transport in a luxury Mercedes vehicle and a dedicated driver-guide.