Dirleton Castle – Spectacular Historic Gardens!
Dirleton Castle combines dramatic 13th century ruins with outstanding historic gardens. Explore the famous herbaceous border, Victorian flower garden and Arts and Crafts planting, plus a rare ginkgo tree.
The castle reveals medieval vaults, chapel and pit prison, while picnic areas and a visitor centre make it an enjoyable day out. Conservation work currently restricts access to parts of the castle.
Click for more useful details on Dirleton Castle and plan your visit.
And click here for great local attractions near to Dirleton Castle for a super day out!
Our Top Tip: Bring a camera or charge your phone for some very photogenic pictures!
Opening Times & Admission Prices
Opening Days: The garden is open all year round but closed 24th December to 4th January
Opening Times: 9.30am to 5pm from 1st April to 30th September, 10am to 4pm 1st October to 31st March & closed Thursday & Friday
Last entry 30 minutes before closing
Admission Prices: Adults £4.50 , Children 7 to 15 years £2.50, Concessions
Check for this years full Dirleton Castle Visitor Information before you travel – just in case!
Local Weather for Dirleton Castle
14°C | °F
About Dirleton Castle
Dirleton Castle is a 13th-century fortress which was rescued by the Nisbet family in 1660 who incorporated teh castle and gardens into their estate as a spectacular feature.
The gardens are famous for having the world’s longest herbaceous border!
While at the gardens you can also expect to see a formal Victorian garden, an Arts and Crafts style garden and watch out for the rare ginkgo, or maidenhair tree which originated in China.
As for the castle ruins you can still get an idea of what medieval life was like with the storage vaults, family chapel and grim pit prison on show.
Do note that some of the areas of the castle are undergoing conservation works so may not be accessible.
There is a visitors centre and shop with a water bottle refill and self service tea and coffee.
And in good weather take advantage of the picnic areas!
And for the romantically inclined you can also exchange your wedding vows at Dirleton!
It really is a very photogenic setting – ideal for Instagram shots!
Accessibility at Dirleton Castle
The herbaceous borders are on the same level with bound gravel surfaced paths and a flat grass lawn.
Dogs at Dirleton Castle
Dogs on leads are welcome but are not permitted in roofed areas.
Assistance dogs welcome everywhere.
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Images © Dirleton Castle
Local Accommodation near to Dirleton Castle
If you are looking for somewhere to stay near Dirleton Castle then look here for your local North Berwick Accommodation.
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Visitor Reviews of Dirleton Castle
Visitor Review Score 4.6 stars
Don’t take our word for how genuinely super these gardens are.
Here is what visitors think about their visit to Dirleton Castle:
Rachael M appreciated the friendly, knowledgeable staff, particularly their helpfulness towards visitors with disabilities.
The Scottish Country Garden loved the beautiful gardens, spectacular Victorian bedding and colourful Arts and Crafts herbaceous borders.
jxx9595 liked the photogenic castle and gardens, particularly for taking photographs during a short visit.
Catherine T enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere, lovely gardens, picnic facilities, children’s park and free parking.
Anonymous visitor praised the remarkably well-preserved castle, stunning gardens and friendly visitor services team.
Local gardens and attractions near to Dirleton Castle
Archerfield Walled Garden: Approx. 1.5 miles. Charming walled garden with seasonal planting, café, woodland walks and family-friendly activities.
Malleny Garden: Approx. 27 miles. Tranquil walled garden featuring heritage roses, Victorian greenhouses and magnificent 400-year-old yew trees.
Inveresk Lodge Garden: Approx. 13 miles. Peaceful hillside garden with colourful borders, roses, woodland, ponds and an atmospheric glasshouse.
Map, Location, Directions & Contact Details for Dirleton Castle
All information was believed to correct at the time of publication
Dirleton
North Berwick Scotland EH39 5ER
United Kingdom