CASTLES THORNHILL

Closeburn Castle in Thornhill, Scotland holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously inhabited tower house in Scotland, with the Kirkpatrick family serving as its ancestral owners since 1232 when King Alexander II granted the land to Ivone of Kirkpatrick. The castle measures 14 by 10 metres and rises 15 metres high, with remarkably thick walls of three metres at ground level tapering to two metres at the top. The fortress contains towers, dungeons, and battlements within its stone structure. Today visitors can explore the castle through guided tours highlighting the Kirkpatrick family's historical connections to Robert the Bruce and William Wallace, as well as escape room experiences and paranormal investigations, making it an active visitor destination alongside its role as a private residence.

Drumlanrig Castle, known as the "Pink Palace," is a magnificent country estate in Thornhill, Dumfries & Galloway offering both heritage tourism and outdoor recreation. The estate combines a historic castle with extensive Victorian gardens featuring head gardener-led tours, woodland adventure playground, Stableyard Studios showcasing working craftspeople, and the Buccleuch Art Collection. Visitors can enjoy self-catering cottages for overnight stays, waymarked walking trails, e-bikes, fishing, biking, clay pigeon shooting, and regular seasonal events. The Larchwood Cabin Café provides dining, and the estate positions itself as a destination where cultural heritage meets active leisure across beautifully maintained grounds.