Glamis Castle
A majestic 14th-century castle, childhood home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, steeped in royal history and ghost stories.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the crowds for tours
Glamis Castle
Best Time
Beat the crowds for tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic 14th-century castle, childhood home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, steeped in royal history and ghost stories.
"A stunning historic castle with breathtaking architecture and beautifully maintained gardens."
🎯 Book Guided Tours Early
Guided tours are essential for exploring the castle interior. Arrive early or book ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds and inside the castle. Comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Interior Tour
Inside Glamis Castle
Step back in time with a guided tour of the castle's opulent rooms, rich with royal history and fascinating tales.
The Majestic Gardens and Grounds
Glamis Castle Estate
Wander through beautifully maintained gardens and expansive grounds, offering stunning views and peaceful walks.
Royal Connections
Glamis Castle
Discover its significance as the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother and birthplace of Princess Margaret.
Shakespearean Inspiration
Glamis Castle
Explore the castle rumored to have inspired Shakespeare's tragic play, Macbeth.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tickets in Advance
Allocate Ample Time for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Guided Tours Early
Guided tours are essential for exploring the castle interior. Arrive early or book ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds and inside the castle. Comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Magic
The castle and its grounds are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera or phone for stunning shots! :iphone:
☕ Enjoy Afternoon Tea
Treat yourself to a delightful afternoon tea experience at the castle cafe. A perfect way to relax. :tea:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Guided Tours Early
Guided tours are essential for exploring the castle interior. Arrive early or book ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds and inside the castle. Comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Magic
The castle and its grounds are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera or phone for stunning shots! :iphone:
☕ Enjoy Afternoon Tea
Treat yourself to a delightful afternoon tea experience at the castle cafe. A perfect way to relax. :tea:
👻 Embrace the Spooky Side
Glamis Castle is known for its ghost stories! Keep an open mind for a touch of the supernatural. :ghost:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Glamis Castle for its stunning architecture, informative guided tours, and beautiful grounds. The staff are frequently highlighted for their welcoming and engaging nature, making for a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Some minor points of improvement were noted regarding the maintenance of certain garden areas, but overall, the castle is highly recommended for its historical significance and charm.
"A stunning historic castle with breathtaking architecture and beautifully maintained gardens. The guided tour was very informative, giving a glimpse into royal history and fascinating stories. A must-visit for anyone exploring Scotland!"
Subhadeep BBanerjee
"We visited 3 castles in Scotland & Glamis was by far the best of them. We spent around 5-6 hours here. The tour inside the castle was top class, then the walk around the woods & walled garden just topped off the day.
A thoroughly enjoyable day."
Paul
"A fantastic visit from start to finish!
Our experience began at the gate, where Jim gave us a warm and thoughtful welcome. He took the time to ensure we knew exactly where to go, setting a positive tone for the day.
The play park was a hit with my little one—pure delight! It was also the perfect spot for a relaxed lunch, with plenty of space and a great atmosphere.
Next, Nicky led us on a tour of the house. She was brilliant with our large group, sharing fascinating insights into the history of the building and the family behind it. Nicky made sure everyone felt included and gave us time to explore each room at our own pace.
This place is truly special, made even better by the exceptional staff. We couldn’t fault a single moment of the day. Highly recommended!"
John Wilson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Glamis Castle is located in Angus, a short drive from Dundee. You can reach it by car (approximately 30 minutes) or by taking a bus service that connects Dundee to Glamis. Taxis are also available.
Yes, ample parking is available for visitors at Glamis Castle. It's conveniently located near the entrance, making it easy to access the castle and its grounds.
While possible, it's a longer day trip from Edinburgh (around 1.5-2 hours drive each way). Many visitors combine it with other attractions in the Angus region for a more relaxed experience.
The address for Glamis Castle is Glamis, Forfar DD8 1RJ, Scotland. It's well-signposted in the local area.
Yes, there are several hotels and accommodation options near Glamis Castle in the surrounding towns of Forfar and Dundee, catering to various budgets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary for adults, seniors, and children. It's best to check the official Glamis Castle website for the most up-to-date pricing and to book in advance.
Booking your Glamis Castle tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.
Glamis Castle typically has seasonal opening hours. It's advisable to check their official website for the current opening times before your visit.
Discounts may be available for groups, families, or specific passes. Check the official website for any current offers or concession rates.
Generally, access to the castle interior requires a ticket. However, some parts of the grounds or estate might be accessible for a fee or as part of specific events. Inquire directly with the castle.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can take guided tours of the castle interiors, explore the beautiful gardens and grounds, visit the gift shop, and enjoy refreshments at the cafe.
Yes, guided tours are a key part of the Glamis Castle experience, offering insights into its history and royal connections.
Yes, Glamis Castle offers a play park for children and the expansive grounds are great for them to explore. The tours can also be engaging for older children.
Glamis Castle is often cited as one of Scotland's most haunted castles, with tales of ghosts like Lady Janet Douglas and a 'monster'. 
Photography rules inside the castle may vary. Typically, photography is allowed in certain areas but not in others to protect the artifacts. Check onsite signage or ask your guide.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Glamis Castle has a cafe that serves light meals, snacks, scones, and coffee. Afternoon tea is also a popular option.
Absolutely! Afternoon tea at Glamis Castle is a delightful experience, offering a selection of sandwiches, scones, and pastries.
The village of Glamis and nearby towns like Forfar offer local pubs and restaurants if you're looking for more dining options beyond the castle cafe.
The cafe typically offers a range of refreshments, including coffee, tea, cakes, scones, and light lunches, perfect for a break during your visit.
The grounds of Glamis Castle offer beautiful spots for picnics, especially if the weather is pleasant. Check if designated picnic areas are available.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the castle, especially as you approach, offers iconic shots. The gardens and surrounding landscapes also provide beautiful photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites like Glamis Castle to protect the property and ensure visitor safety. Always check their policy before flying.
Photography inside the castle may be limited to certain areas or prohibited altogether to preserve the interiors and artifacts. Be sure to observe any posted signs.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and a softer glow on the castle and grounds.
Yes, the Highland Cows on the estate are a popular subject for photos. Remember to maintain a safe distance and respect their space.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏰 History Buffs
👻 Ghost Hunters & Paranormal Enthusiasts
+1 Learn about the legends of Lady Janet Douglas, the mysterious hidden room, and other reported hauntings that contribute to its eerie atmosphere. Keep an open mind and perhaps you'll experience something yourself!Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Royal Legacy of Glamis Castle
+1 The castle's connection to the monarchy adds a layer of prestige and fascination, drawing many visitors eager to connect with this royal heritage.Beyond its more recent royal ties, Glamis Castle has been the ancestral seat of the Lyon family since the 14th century. The present structure largely dates from the 17th century, showcasing centuries of architectural evolution and family history. This deep-rooted lineage is palpable throughout the castle, with stories and artifacts reflecting the lives of its long-term custodians.
The castle's enduring legacy is a testament to its importance in both Scottish and British history.Furthermore, Glamis Castle is famously linked to Shakespeare's Macbeth, believed to be the setting for the play's dramatic events. This literary connection adds an element of mystery and intrigue, inviting visitors to imagine the castle as the backdrop for such a powerful tragedy.
The blend of royal history, ancestral lineage, and literary inspiration makes Glamis Castle a truly captivating destination.Unveiling the Haunted History of Glamis Castle
+1Another persistent legend speaks of a hidden room within the castle, which some versions claim housed an infamous 'monster' – a deformed child born to the Lyon family. The mystery of this room and its potential occupant adds to the castle's eerie allure.
Visitors often report feeling a sense of unease or experiencing unexplained phenomena, contributing to its haunted reputation. Beyond these prominent tales, other spectral sightings include a little servant boy who is said to sit on a ledge, and the ghost of Earl Beardie, who is rumored to be eternally playing cards in a secret chamber. These stories, passed down through generations, create an atmosphere of mystery and intrigue, making a visit to Glamis Castle an experience that can send shivers down your spine.
Exploring the Grounds and Gardens
Beyond the formal gardens, the estate boasts extensive woodlands and parkland, perfect for leisurely walks. These areas are ideal for spotting local wildlife and enjoying the natural beauty of Angus. Keep an eye out for the resident Highland Cows, a charming and iconic sight on the estate that many visitors enjoy photographing.
For families, the play park is a significant attraction, providing a fun space for children to burn off energy. The open spaces also make it an excellent spot for a relaxed picnic, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the picturesque surroundings of Glamis Castle.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit