MacLellan’s Castle

Kirkcudbright, DG6 4JD

01557 331 856
 

Overview

The grounds and shop are accessible.

Due to access restrictions in place as a precautionary measure while we undertake high level masonry inspections, there is currently no visitor access to this site. Find out more about our conservation work

See the remains of Sir Thomas MacLellan’s tower house, and discover how castle building had evolved by the late 1500s. Unlike the heavily defended model of old, this castle favours comfort over cannons.

What to see and do

  • Go ‘below stairs’ and try to picture the conditions of the servants who worked in these dark vaults
  • Compare the great domestic comfort of the Jacobean tower house with its minimal defences
  • Learn the riches to rags story of the MacLellan family, whose reversal of fortune led to the castle’s demise
  • Seek out the laird’s lug, a secret spyhole behind the great hall fireplace, used by the owner to eavesdrop on his guests
  • Visit Greyfriars Church next door to see the memorial to Sir Thomas and Lady Grissel MacLellan
  • Take our fun fact-finding quiz while exploring the castle. 
Historic Scotland

Opening times

The grounds and shop are accessible.

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.

1 Apr to 30 Sept:
Mon to Thur, 9.30am to 5.30pm
Last entry 5pm

Facilities

Awards & Accreditations

Green Tourism logo - silver award A graphic of a dark blue oval with a thistle at the top and the words "Scottish Tourist Board", followed by four stars.

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