Castles of South Scotland

Thirlestane Castle (Thirlstein)
The castle was built in 1590 and has long been an important military gateway between England and Scotland. The interiors amaze with the richness of the decoration (the stucco on the ceilings is made by the same masters as in the royal residence Holyrood). In addition to the luxurious old interiors, the castle has preserved a unique collection of items of castle life - old toys, meat grinders, washing machines, etc. Its owners still live in the castle. (The castle is closed until April).

Traquair Castle (Tracouer)

The charming snow-white castle, still a private property, stands on the banks of the fast Tweed River, surrounded by wooded hills. Built in 1107, it is closely related to the story of Mary Stuart and the Jacobites. There are not only beautiful old interiors, but also a whole museum of relics (e.g., the cradle of the son of Mary Stuart, James IV and I). Behind the castle lies a labyrinth garden. There is an old brewery in the castle, where unusually tasty ale is brewed, which tourists can taste.

Rosslyn Chapel (Roslin)

The history of the chapel, which became popular thanks to the novel and the film The Da Vinci Code (it was there, according to the author, the Holy Grail was hidden), goes back to the 15th century, when master massons built and carved from top to bottom the snow-white stone walls of the chapel. The interior impresses with an abundance of mystical symbols, behind each of which is a complex philosophy and ancient history.