Earlshall Castle near Leuchars in Fife is a restored 16th-century courtyard castle built in 1546 by Sir William Bruce, a survivor of the Battle of Flodden. The castle received Mary Queen of Scots during her visit to Scotland in 1561, marking its significance in Scottish royal history. The estate is renowned for its formal gardens designed by celebrated architect Sir Robert Lorimer, featuring topiary lawns, rose terraces, croquet grounds, and extensive herbaceous borders. Consisting of a main house, detached tower with vaulted chambers, and outbuildings from the 17th century, Earlshall exemplifies Renaissance-era Scottish architecture. Today it remains privately owned by Clan Baxter, with the estate's gardens occasionally open to visitors.
