Hidden in the scenic Perthshire countryside in Scotland, Drummond Castle is a building that transcends time, weaving together rich history, architectural splendour, and enchanting gardens.
This castle, known for its stunning formal gardens and intriguing past, offers a unique glimpse into Scotland’s storied heritage. Drummond Castle tours are like stepping into a historical tapestry, where every stone and plant tells a story. The gardens featured in Outlander as the location for a garden party at the Palace of Versailles . Book your four castles tour featuring Drummond Castle .
A Historical Overview
Drummond Castle’s origins date back to 1491 when Sir John Drummond of Cargill built the original tower house. The Drummond family have been the custodians of this castle for centuries.
Book your four castles tour featuring Drummond Castle for 2025
The castle itself underwent several transformations. The most notable expansion occurred in the 17th century when the 2nd Earl of Perth, James Drummond, significantly enlarged the structure, adding the imposing mansion that stands today. This blend of a medieval tower house and later baronial architecture creates a unique architectural amalgamation, showcasing the evolution of Scottish castle design.
The Enchanting Gardens
While the castle’s historical architecture is captivating, it is the gardens that often steal the show. Drummond Castle Gardens are renowned as some of the finest formal gardens in Europe. Laid out in the 1630s by John Drummond, the 2nd Earl, the gardens reflect Renaissance influences with their geometric precision and elaborate design.Book your four castles tour featuring Drummond Castle .
Visitors entering the gardens are greeted by an awe-inspiring parterre, a formal garden characterized by symmetrical patterns of plants and pathways. The design, which resembles the Union Jack when viewed from above, is a testament to the intricate planning and artistic vision that went into its creation. The gardens are adorned with statues, fountains, and meticulously trimmed hedges, all contributing to an atmosphere of timeless elegance.
Seasonal flowers, topiary, and ornamental features create a visual feast, changing with the seasons but always maintaining a sense of structured beauty.
Hidden Stories and Mysteries
Beyond the visible splendour, Drummond Castle harbors numerous secrets and stories. Local legends suggest the presence of hidden tunnels and chambers beneath the castle grounds. These passages, some say, were used for various clandestine purposes, from hiding Jacobite rebels to facilitating secret rendezvous.
Ghost stories also add to the castle’s mystique. The most famous is that of the ‘Green Lady,’ said to be the spirit of a former servant girl. Visitors and staff have reported eerie encounters and strange occurrences, adding a layer of supernatural intrigue to the castle’s allure.
Visiting Drummond Castle
Today, Drummond Castle remains a private residence but opens its gardens and castle keep to the public during the summer months. Walking through the gardens, one can feel the weight of history, the whispers of past events, and the beauty of human endeavour harmonizing with nature. The castle and its gardens offer a peaceful retreat, a Zen like experience , a place where history and nature coexist in perfect harmony.
Exploring Drummond Castle is not just about witnessing its physical beauty; it is about immersing oneself in the stories, legends, and legacy of a family that has shaped this part of Scotland for centuries. It is a journey through time, where every path walked and every stone seen contributes to a deeper understanding of Scotland’s rich and multifaceted heritage.
Can you go into Drummond Castle?
You can’t go inside the castle but you can go into the tower and the gardens .
Is Drummond Castle occupied ?
Yes , the current owner of the castle lives in it now.
The four castles tour is also listed on Visit Scotland
The current owner of the castle lives in it now. You can’t go inside the castle but you can go into the tower and the gardens . The castle has been owned by the Drummond family for centuries . Book your four castles tour featuring Drummond Castle . Drummond Castle’s origins date back to 1491 when Sir John Drummond of Cargill built the original tower house. The Drummond family have been the custodians of this castle for centuries.
Scenes from TV series Outlander and the film Rob Roy , starring Liam Neeson , were both filmed at Drummond Castle. The gardens featured in Outlander as the location for a garden party at the Palace of Versailles where Jamie Fraser meets Black Jack Randall. They have an argument and Jamie challenges Black Jack to a duel. Book your four castles tour featuring Drummond Castle .
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