Floors Castle & Gardens - Image 1
1 / 3

Floors Castle and Gardens

4.6
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

Scotland's largest inhabited house, offering grand interiors and magnificent gardens with a rich history.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Floors Castle & Gardens - Image 1

Floors Castle and Gardens

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Scotland's largest inhabited house, offering grand interiors and magnificent gardens with a rich history.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"The gardens are absolutely glorious, without doubt one of the best we've ever visited."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Garden Focus for Families

Prioritize the gardens if visiting with kids; they offer play areas and lots to explore.

🚶 River Walk Signage

The river walk can be poorly signposted; keep an eye out for posts or follow fields.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Walled Garden

The Walled Garden

Floors Castle Gardens

A stunning display of flowers and vegetables, offering inspiration and beauty.

Reddit
Millennium Gardens

Millennium Gardens

Floors Castle Gardens

Featuring numerous apple trees, this area is particularly delightful and family-friendly.

Reddit
Castle Exterior and Approach

Castle Exterior and Approach

Floors Castle

Admire the grand architecture, with its turrets and battlements, a picturesque sight.

Instagram+1
Woodland Walks

Woodland Walks

Floors Castle Estate

Explore scenic paths through the woods, perfect for a leisurely stroll or family fun.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Floors Castle and Gardens can get busy, especially during peak season. Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. The gardens are a major draw, so plan your visit around good weather for optimal enjoyment of the grounds and outdoor activities. Instagram

Castle vs. Gardens: What to Prioritize

While the castle interiors are impressive, many visitors rave about the extensive gardens. If time is limited or you're traveling with children, focusing on the walled gardens, millennium gardens, and woodland walks might be more rewarding. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Gardens in full bloom, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn/Winter (Gardens only)
Why
Enjoy the grounds when castle is closed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The main approach to Floors Castle, built in the 1720’s by William Adam for the Duke of Roxburghe, the house was later embellished with turrets and battlements by William Playfair, to create the magical house we see today. #house #hall #mansion #manor #manorhouse #countryhouse #countryhouses #englishcountryhouses #statelyhome #statelyhomes #historichouse #historichouses #historichome #historichome...
country_house_obsession
3.5K likes • 82.3K views

🎟️ Garden Focus for Families

Prioritize the gardens if visiting with kids; they offer play areas and lots to explore. InstagramReddit

🚶 River Walk Signage

The river walk can be poorly signposted; keep an eye out for posts or follow fields. Reddit

Garden lover Lily (@pintsizedphoto) has been saving big on her garden visits with her 2-for-1 Gardens card! This summer, Lily explored the historic grounds of Floors Castle in Scotland, exploring the Victorian kitchen garden and admiring the colourful blooms within the herbaceous borders 🌸🏰🌺 Using the 2-for-1 Gardens card, Lily saved £10 on her visit to Floors Castle grounds – and could’ve save...
gardenersworldmag
845 likes • 29.8K views
Hidden corners found at Floors Castle.✨ Floors Castle is the largest inhabited house in Scotland. First, constructed between 1721 and 1726. It remains the family of the Duke and Duchess of Roxburghe. #statelyhome #countryhouse #architecture #castle #historichouses #manorhouse #nationaltrust #historichouse #statelyhomes #mansion #uk #architecturephotography #weddingvenue #historichomes #manor #g...
theprofessorslibrary
0 likes • 14.1K views

☕ Cafe & Picnic Options

Enjoy the cafe or bring a picnic for a more budget-friendly meal with great views. Reddit

♿ Accessibility

Good disabled access and parking are available, making it welcoming for all visitors. Reddit

Floors Castle and Estate - 360° view
unique_scotland
322 likes • 10.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Garden Focus for Families

Prioritize the gardens if visiting with kids; they offer play areas and lots to explore. InstagramReddit

🚶 River Walk Signage

The river walk can be poorly signposted; keep an eye out for posts or follow fields. Reddit

☕ Cafe & Picnic Options

Enjoy the cafe or bring a picnic for a more budget-friendly meal with great views. Reddit

♿ Accessibility

Good disabled access and parking are available, making it welcoming for all visitors. Reddit

🍂 Seasonal Closures

The castle itself closes for autumn/winter, but gardens may remain accessible. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Floors Castle and Gardens for its stunning grounds, particularly the Walled and Millennium Gardens, which offer beauty and family-friendly activities. While the castle interiors are impressive, the gardens are often cited as the main draw. Some find the entrance fee a bit high for what's included inside the castle itself, but the overall experience is considered a great day out. Reddit

"A fabulous day out with grand kids, We visited the wall garden, which is absolutely stunning, wonderful variety of flowers and veg, the millennium gardens are truly amazing, filled with so many apple trees, the kids loved the park and we had a picnic whilst there, we visited the shop and bought gorgeous marmalade and chutney, the cafe was reasonable and the coffee food. We didn't pay to go in the castle opting for the river walk which to be honest wasn't that well sign posted, could have done with a few more posts to follow, but we happily walked across the field ! The castle is spectacular to look at. A great day out worth a visit"

Linda Blakelock

"Fabulous castle and grounds from the outside. Was a last minute decision so could only do lunch at the cafe which was really nice. Fab views as you sit and eat outside and the food was amazing! I had a crunchy fish wrap and my friend ordered the schnitzel and we both enjoyed our food.

Would come back soon to visit the walled garden and inside the castle."

Grace D.

"This is one spectacular castle, we didn't manage to get inside but the gardens are absolutely glorious, without doubt one of the best we've ever visited. Lots of inspiration to take home. Beautiful grounds with woodland walks and plenty of space to tire out the little ones."

Lisa Tillison

What People Like

Spectacular gardens
Family-friendly activities
Beautiful castle exterior

What People Dislike

High entrance fee
Poorly signposted walks

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Floors Castle is located in Kelso, Scottish Borders. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes or considering a taxi from nearby towns is advisable. Instagram

Yes, parking is included with your admission ticket, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

While you can walk around the estate and down by the River Tweed, reaching the castle itself often involves driving or a dedicated approach. Reddit

The estate offers various walking routes, including woodland paths and the river walk. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive grounds. InstagramReddit

Kelso is the closest town to Floors Castle, offering accommodation options. Other towns in the Scottish Borders are also within driving distance. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary, with some visitors noting the £22 entrance charge as potentially high, though it includes access to the gardens. It's best to check the official Floors Castle website for current pricing. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended to secure your entry and potentially avoid queues. Check their website for booking options. Instagram

Typically, tickets include access to the castle interiors (when open), the extensive gardens, and the estate grounds. Reddit

Some visitors mention using a 2-for-1 Gardens card for savings, suggesting looking into potential discount schemes or family passes. Instagram

Floors Castle often closes for the autumn/winter period, but the gardens may remain accessible. Always verify opening dates and times on their official website. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Key attractions include the grand castle interiors, the stunning Walled Garden, the Millennium Gardens, and scenic woodland walks. InstagramReddit

Yes, the gardens offer a children's play area and an Explorer Trail, making it a great family-friendly destination. InstagramReddit

Photography policies inside historic houses can vary. It's advisable to check signage upon arrival or ask staff about restrictions for interior photography. Instagram

Information on guided tours is usually available on the official Floors Castle website. These can offer deeper insights into the history and architecture. Instagram

Facilities typically include restrooms, a cafe/tearoom, and a shop. Disabled access and parking are also provided. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Floors Castle has a cafe and sometimes a restaurant offering food and drinks. Visitors have praised the food quality, with options like fish wraps and schnitzel. InstagramReddit

The cafe typically offers a range of options, from light snacks and coffee to more substantial meals. Some reviews mention marmalade and chutney from the shop. Reddit

Yes, visitors can enjoy picnics in designated areas, which can be a more budget-friendly option. Reddit

Reviews suggest the cafe is reasonably priced, offering good value for the quality of food and the scenic dining experience. Reddit

There is a shop where you can purchase souvenirs, including local produce like marmalade and chutney. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The main approach to the castle, the Walled Garden in bloom, and panoramic views from the estate offer excellent photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites to protect the property and ensure visitor safety. Check with management for specific regulations. Instagram

Exploring the less-trodden paths in the gardens and woodlands might reveal unique and picturesque 'hidden corners'. Instagram

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) often provides beautiful light for photographing the castle and gardens. Instagram

Interior photography rules can vary. It's best to check with staff or look for signage upon entry to the castle. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Floors Castle is a fantastic choice for a family day out. The gardens are a major highlight, featuring a dedicated play area and an Explorer Trail that kids will love. InstagramReddit The vast grounds offer ample space for children to explore and play freely, making it a relaxed experience for parents. Don't miss the Millennium Gardens with their apple trees, which are particularly enchanting for younger visitors. Reddit

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery, or utilize the reasonably priced cafe for a convenient meal. The overall atmosphere is welcoming and geared towards ensuring everyone, especially the little ones, has a memorable time. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While the castle entrance fee can be a consideration, focusing on the gardens and grounds offers excellent value. Reddit Many visitors highlight the gardens as a primary attraction, and your ticket often includes access to these extensive areas. Reddit Consider bringing your own picnic to save on dining costs, as there are pleasant spots to enjoy your meal. Reddit Look out for potential discount schemes like the 2-for-1 Gardens card mentioned by some visitors. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Garden Enthusiasts

Floors Castle's gardens are a must-visit for any horticultural admirer. The Walled Garden is renowned for its diverse array of flowers and vegetables, offering a feast for the eyes and inspiration for your own garden projects. Reddit Explore the Millennium Gardens and the broader estate for a comprehensive horticultural experience. InstagramReddit Plan to spend ample time wandering through the different sections to fully appreciate the design and plant collections. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architecture of Floors Castle

Floors Castle, a prominent stately home in Scotland, boasts a rich architectural history. Originally constructed between 1721 and 1726 by William Adam for the Duke of Roxburghe, its initial design was more classical. Later, in the 19th century, architect William Playfair was commissioned to embellish the house, adding the distinctive turrets and battlements that give it its current, more romantic and castellated appearance. Instagram This transformation reflects evolving architectural tastes and the desire to create a grand, picturesque country seat.

The main approach to the castle offers a dramatic first impression, showcasing its imposing facade and the surrounding landscape. Visitors often remark on the sheer scale and grandeur of the building. While the interiors are lavishly furnished with art and tapestries, the exterior architecture itself is a significant draw, embodying centuries of Scottish country house design. Instagram+1

Exploring the grounds provides context for the castle's placement and its integration with the natural environment. The estate's design and the castle's position are integral to its overall aesthetic appeal, making it a subject of interest for architecture enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Gardens of Floors Castle: A Horticultural Gem

The gardens at Floors Castle are consistently praised as a highlight, often described as 'glorious' and 'one of the best' by visitors. Reddit The Walled Garden is a particular standout, featuring a 'wonderful variety of flowers and veg,' offering a vibrant display throughout the seasons. Reddit This section is a testament to meticulous horticultural practice and provides ample inspiration for home gardeners.

Beyond the Walled Garden, the Millennium Gardens are a charming addition, noted for their abundance of apple trees. This area is especially popular with families, providing a delightful space for children to explore. Reddit The estate also encompasses woodland walks, offering a more natural and serene experience, perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying the Scottish countryside. InstagramReddit

Horticulture enthusiasts will find much to admire, from herbaceous borders to fruit and vegetable plots. The combination of formal garden design and naturalistic landscaping ensures a diverse and engaging experience for all visitors, regardless of their gardening knowledge. Instagram+1

Visiting Floors Castle with Family

Floors Castle and Gardens is a highly recommended destination for families with children. The estate offers a dedicated children's play area and an engaging Explorer Trail within the gardens, ensuring younger visitors remain entertained. InstagramReddit The expansive grounds provide plenty of space for children to run around and burn off energy, making it a stress-free outing for parents. Reddit

The gardens themselves are a major draw for families. The Millennium Gardens, with their apple trees, are particularly appealing, and the Walled Garden offers a visually stimulating environment. InstagramReddit Visitors often mention that the combination of open spaces, engaging garden features, and the opportunity for picnics makes it an ideal family day out. Reddit

While the castle interiors might be less engaging for very young children, the outdoor attractions provide more than enough to make a visit memorable. The availability of facilities like restrooms and a cafe further enhances the family-friendly nature of the experience. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2