This magnificent fortress–residence served three successive noble families over 400 years. Badly damaged in Cromwell’s 1650 siege, Dirleton’s fortunes were revived by its new owners in the 1660s.
The Nisbet family built a new mansion house nearby to live in and made the picturesque castle ruins the central feature in their new designed landscape. They also breathed new life into the splendid gardens, now home to the world’s longest herbaceous border.
The gardens, exhibition and shop are open.
Due to access restrictions in place as a precautionary measure while we undertake high level masonry inspections, there is currently no visitor access to the castle or doocot.
1 Apr to 30 Sept:
Daily, 9.30am to 5.30pm
Last entry 5pm
1 Oct to 31 Mar:
Daily except Thur and Fri, 10am to 4pm
Last entry 3.30pm
Closed for lunch 12.30pm to 1.30pm.
We recommend booking online in advance to guarantee entry.
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