Glamis Castle

Glamis Castle is one of the most recognisable baronial castles in Scotland, with its fairy-tale turrets and towers rising above the Vale of Strathmore. The castle was the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother and the birthplace of Princess Margaret. It is also the setting Shakespeare used for the murder of King Duncan in Macbeth. The gardens, including a formal Italian Garden designed by the Countess of Strathmore, are beautiful.

History

The site has been held by the Lyon family (later Bowes-Lyon) since 1372, when Sir John Lyon received the Thanedom of Glamis from Robert II. The castle was remodelled into its present baronial form in the 17th century. The ghost stories of Glamis – including the Monster of Glamis and the secret room – have made it one of the most famously haunted castles in Britain.

Visiting Glamis Castle

Open seasonally, typically April to October. Guided tours of the castle interior run throughout the day. The grounds include the Italian Garden, Walled Garden, nature trail and a children's adventure playground. Glamis is about 12 miles north of Dundee and 60 miles from Edinburgh.

Highlights

• Childhood home of The Queen Mother
• Shakespeare's Macbeth setting – the murder of King Duncan
• Fairy-tale baronial architecture with turrets and towers
• Famously haunted – the Monster of Glamis legend

Private tours including Glamis Castle

We can include Glamis 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 Glamis Castle?

Open seasonally, typically April to October. Guided tours of the castle interior run throughout the day. The grounds include the Italian Garden, Walled Garden, nature trail and a children's adventure playground. Glamis is about 12 miles north of Dundee and 60 miles from Edinburgh.

When was Glamis Castle built?

Glamis Castle dates from 14th century (rebuilt 17th century). It is classified as a baronial castle and stately home and is located in Glamis, by Forfar.

How do I get to Glamis Castle?

Glamis Castle is in Glamis, by Forfar, Angus. We offer private tours that include Glamis Castle with door-to-door transport in a luxury Mercedes vehicle with a dedicated driver-guide.