Edzell Castle and Garden

Edzell Castle and Garden is a historic castle ruin and walled garden in Edzell, near Brechin. The Lindsay family built the castle in the 16th century and added the Great Garden in 1604. Explore the remaining rooms and the garden’s rare roses, clipped hedges and summer house. Birds roam the grounds, and reenactment events by Sir Arthur Erskine’s Regiment can add a living-history element to a visit. The garden is a strong reason to stop even if you spend less time among the castle remains.

The castle and the Lindsay family

The Lindsay family acquired the estate in 1358. Their original residence was a timber building beside the ancient church. In the 16th century, they built a new castle a short distance away, leaving the remains visitors explore today.

The surviving castle is a ruin, but room structures remain, including parts of the tower. Some areas are currently closed off, so access through the castle is limited. Uneven surfaces around the main building also call for care.

The Great Garden

The Lindsays created the Great Garden in 1604. The small walled garden retains much of its historic character, with rare roses, shaped hedges and a summer house to explore. Its plantings and layout give the visit a different focus from the castle remains.

The grounds have space to wander, and birds such as ravens, crows and hawks may be seen there. On some visits, reenactors from Sir Arthur Erskine’s Regiment hold a camp and share historical demonstrations.