Dirleton Castle
East Lothian, Scotland
Key facts
- Operator
- Historic Environment Scotland
- Condition
- Ruin
- Access
- Staffed, ticketed
- Entry pass
- Historic Scotland Explorer Pass
- Nearest station
- North Berwick, 2.0 miles (straight-line)
Pinpoint
Dirleton, North Berwick EH39 5ER
Telephone 01620 850330
Possible Opening Hours*
*Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
| Monday | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Thursday | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Friday | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Saturday | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Sunday | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
A medieval fortress a short trip from Edinburgh, ringed by gardens that reviewers rate as highly as the castle itself, and substantial enough inside, kitchens, great hall, a former prison, to reward a proper explore. Some sections are currently closed for repairs, and Historic Environment Scotland has reduced the entry price to reflect it.
Worth the trip
The gardens - reviewers rate them consistently, and they're accessible even to those who find the castle itself less compelling.
Before you go
Entry has been discounted while repair works close off some sections, so it's worth checking current pricing before you go - and don't skip the doocot near the entrance, which reviewers flag as a small but genuinely interesting detail.
Most reviewers enjoyed Dirleton Castle, particularly the well-preserved ruins alongside what several call superb gardens. A repeated theme is that parts of the site were closed off for repairs during visits, though multiple reviewers note the entry price was discounted to reflect this and it didn't spoil the overall experience; one visitor felt it was less memorable than other castles they'd seen, largely because so much was inaccessible at the time.
Medieval fortress with famous gardens
“A great place for a quick getaway from the city, not far from Edinburgh. Not much remains of the castle, but it is still worth seeing, plus there are beautiful gardens. Free parking and toilets on site. I recommend it.”- Marek Kurowski (Kuri), visitor review
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Parking
- “Free parking and toilets on site.” - Marek Kurowski (Kuri)
Common questions about Dirleton Castle
Where is Dirleton Castle?
Dirleton Castle is in East Lothian, Scotland, at Dirleton, North Berwick EH39 5ER.
Do you need a ticket to visit Dirleton Castle?
Yes - Dirleton Castle is a staffed, ticketed attraction run by Historic Environment Scotland. Ticket prices and opening hours change through the year, so check the official site before travelling.
What is the highlight of visiting Dirleton Castle?
The gardens - reviewers rate them consistently, and they're accessible even to those who find the castle itself less compelling.
Is Dirleton Castle a ruin or still intact?
Dirleton Castle is a ruin - Medieval fortress with famous gardens.
