Blair Castle

The ancestral home to Clan Murray and home to Europe’s last remaining private army, the Atholl Highlanders – Blair Castle’s imposing architecture is nestled into the scenic surroundings of Highland Perthshire.

The castle is said to have been started in 1269 and famously played a crucial role in the Jacobite rebellion, changing hands between the Jacobites and government forces during the conflict that claimed the Jacobite leader.

In 1844, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert visited the castle and it was then that the Queen gave permission for the establishment of the Atholl Highlanders – Europe’s last remaining private army.

It has been open to the public since 1936, and today, there are more than 30 rooms on display full of fascinating features. They include collections of weapons from the Battle of Culloden, hunting trophies, souvenirs of the Murray clan and more than 175 pairs of antlers. Make sure you explore the Victorian Ballroom and the great Entrance Hall.

The castle is also renowned for its nine-acre Walled Garden – which was recently restored to its original Georgian design featuring 18th century sculptures and the ruins of St. Brides Kirk, the final resting place of Jacobite leader Bonnie Dundee.

The stunning gardens look out to the spectacular Highland Perthshire surroundings and feature a wide range of plant species and Scottish wildlife including a Grand Fir in Diana’s Grove which was declared as Britain’s second highest tree!