Dirleton Castle & Gardens Edinburgh
Explore ancient castle ruins and wander through the world's longest herbaceous border in stunning 13th-century gardens.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gardens in full bloom
Dirleton Castle & Gardens Edinburgh
Best Time
Gardens in full bloom

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient castle ruins and wander through the world's longest herbaceous border in stunning 13th-century gardens.
"A charming castle ruins with its own fascinating quirks, stood overlooking a beautifully kept, colourful garden."
Check Opening Times
Managed by Historic Scotland, verify hours & potential closures on their website before you go. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven castle grounds and through expansive gardens. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The World's Longest Herbaceous Border
Gardens
Marvel at the stunning, vibrant herbaceous border, a horticultural masterpiece stretching to impressive lengths.

Impressive Castle Ruins
Castle
Explore the atmospheric 13th-century ruins, imagining life within these ancient walls.

The Historic Doocot
Grounds
Discover the well-preserved doocot, a fascinating glimpse into medieval agricultural practices.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Opening Times
Managed by Historic Scotland, verify hours & potential closures on their website before you go. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven castle grounds and through expansive gardens. :athletic_shoe:
Dirleton Castle is one of Scotland’s oldest surviving strongholds. The 13th-century fortress was for 400 years a magnificent fortified residence to three successive noble families – the de Vauxs, Haliburtons and Ruthvens.
Explore the Doocot
Don't miss the impressive doocot; it's a unique historical feature. :camerawithflash:
Combine with Beach Visit
Pair your castle visit with a trip to nearby Yellowcraigs beach for a full day out. :ocean:
What are your favourite castles to visit on the inside in and around Edinburgh apart from Edinburgh Castle ?
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Opening Times
Managed by Historic Scotland, verify hours & potential closures on their website before you go. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven castle grounds and through expansive gardens. :athletic_shoe:
Explore the Doocot
Don't miss the impressive doocot; it's a unique historical feature. :camerawithflash:
Combine with Beach Visit
Pair your castle visit with a trip to nearby Yellowcraigs beach for a full day out. :ocean:
Pub Lunch Nearby
Grab a bite at a pub across the street for a convenient and local dining experience. :knifeforkplate:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Dirleton Castle & Gardens for its beautiful, well-maintained grounds and the atmospheric ruins, even when parts are closed for renovation. The world's longest herbaceous border is a standout feature, delighting many. Some minor drawbacks include occasional closures for maintenance and limited shop hours.
"Even half closed for maintenance, it was still worth going. Looking at the description boards in each section and comparing to the ruins really transported you back to what it might have been like. Helpful young man on the entrance counter. Beautifully kept gardens."
Rob Cockcroft
"This was a lovely find. A very charming castle ruins with its own fascinating quirks, stood overlooking a beautifully kept, colourful garden - loved the Hollyhocks - with an unexpected bowls' lawn in immaculate condition. Nearby was a Doocot in excellent condition which allows you to walk in and imagine the scene, back in the day, when it was full of nesting pigeons."
James Horan
"The castle ruins are interesting, though mostly ruins there’s plenty to explore. Such a beautiful place, the grounds are lovely, first time we have seen a Doocot. Would be even better in the summer with all the flowers out. Parking available along the road."
wendy coulter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Dirleton Castle & Gardens from Edinburgh via public transport. Buses run directly from North Berwick, and there's a bus stop conveniently located right outside the castle. :bus: Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, parking is available along the road near the castle. It's usually easy to find a spot, especially outside of peak season. :car:
Absolutely! There's a bus stop directly outside the castle, making it easily accessible for those relying on public transport from Edinburgh or nearby towns. :train2:
Many visitors opt for a combination of train to North Berwick and then a short bus or taxi ride. Driving is also straightforward with ample parking. :car:
No, walking from Edinburgh to Dirleton Castle is not feasible due to the distance. Public transport or driving are the recommended options. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply and are managed by Historic Scotland. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts. Some parts may be closed for maintenance.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended to guarantee entry and potentially save time. Check the Historic Scotland website. :computer:
Opening hours vary seasonally and can be affected by maintenance. Always consult the Historic Scotland website for the most accurate and up-to-date information before your visit.
Historic Scotland sometimes offers free entry days or has specific membership benefits. Check their website or consider a membership for potential savings. :moneywithwings:
Even with some sections closed for maintenance, visitors often find there's still plenty to see and enjoy in the accessible ruins and beautiful gardens.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the atmospheric medieval ruins, wander through the world's longest herbaceous border, and discover the historic doocot. There's also a charming bowls' lawn and a small souvenir shop.
Yes, children often enjoy exploring the castle ruins and the expansive gardens. There's even a small play park on the grounds, making it a great family outing.
A typical visit can last between 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the ruins and gardens. Some visitors spend longer if they enjoy photography or a leisurely stroll.
Generally, dogs are welcome in the gardens on a lead, but access to the castle ruins themselves may be restricted. It's best to confirm with Historic Scotland. :dog:
The doocot is a historic pigeon house, a well-preserved structure where pigeons were kept for food. It's a unique feature offering a glimpse into medieval life.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the castle ruins against the sky, the vibrant herbaceous border in bloom, and the unique architecture of the doocot. The gardens offer many picturesque angles.
Absolutely! The combination of dramatic ruins and meticulously kept gardens provides endless photographic opportunities throughout the year. :camera:
Early morning or late afternoon light offers the most flattering illumination for both the castle and gardens, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a beautiful atmosphere. :sunrise:
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites to protect the heritage and ensure visitor safety. Always check with Historic Scotland for their specific drone policy. :noentrysign:
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide garden vistas and castle details. A wide-angle lens is useful for the herbaceous border. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While some parts of the castle might be closed for maintenance, there's still ample to discover. The doocot is a particularly fascinating feature for kids, offering a unique glimpse into historical practices. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery, or grab a bite at a nearby pub. :child:
🚶♀️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the descriptive boards on-site, which help bring the ruins to life and offer context about the castle's strategic importance and eventual decline. The doocot is another historical gem that adds to the site's unique appeal. Consider visiting during a less crowded time to fully immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere. :scroll:
🌸 Garden Enthusiasts
Beyond the famous border, the meticulously maintained gardens offer a serene escape. Explore the charming bowls' lawn and the intriguing doocot. The combination of historical architecture and vibrant flora creates a picturesque setting perfect for leisurely walks and photography. :tulip:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Exploring the castle today allows visitors to imagine the lives of those who inhabited these walls. The descriptions on site help paint a picture of its former glory, even with sections closed for maintenance. The sheer age and resilience of the structure are awe-inspiring, providing a stark contrast to the vibrant life found in its gardens.
This historical significance is a key draw for many visitors, offering a deeper understanding of Scotland's past beyond the more famous Edinburgh Castle. The blend of historical exploration and horticultural beauty makes Dirleton a unique destination.
The Enchanting Gardens
The gardens also feature other points of interest, including a beautifully kept bowls' lawn and the remarkably preserved doocot. The doocot, a medieval pigeon house, is a unique feature that allows visitors to step back in time and visualize the castle's self-sufficiency. The immaculate condition of these grounds adds significantly to the overall charm of the estate.
Many reviewers highlight the gardens as a major reason for their visit, noting that even when parts of the castle are closed, the beauty of the grounds makes the trip worthwhile. The gardens provide a peaceful and picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll and offer excellent opportunities for photography.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit