Highlights
- The formal parterre seen from the castle terraces
- Ancient yew hedges and Italianate stone statuary
- A beech tree planted by Queen Victoria on her visit in 1842
- Film location for Rob Roy and Outlander
About Drummond Castle Gardens
Drummond Castle Gardens lie near Muthill, south of Crieff in Perthshire. The gardens date back to the 17th century and were redesigned and terraced in the 19th century, giving them their Italianate character. Queen Victoria visited in 1842 and planted a beech tree that still stands.
The formal gardens were replanted in the 1950s but keep earlier features, including old yew hedges. Seen from the terraces below the castle, the parterre is a striking sight, and it has appeared in the film Rob Roy and the television series Outlander. The gardens are run by a registered charity; the castle itself is not open to the public.
What to see
- The parterre: a large formal design of clipped hedges and beds laid out below the castle.
- Statuary: stone figures and ornaments are a key part of the Italianate design.
- Yew hedges and old trees: including Queen Victoria's beech.
- The terraces: for the classic view down over the garden.
Planning your visit
Buy tickets at the castle courtyard, where there is wheelchair user parking; there is also parking at the potting shed access drive. Little Red, in the castle's inner courtyard, serves drinks and home baking, and cold drinks and ice cream are sold at the ticket office. There are toilets and picnic benches. The gardens are on a steep hillside with steep steps and gravel paths, so ask at the ticket office about the lower entrance and the step-free route. The season also includes a charity open day in August.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to visit Drummond Castle Gardens?
In 2026 adult tickets cost £12.50, children aged 5 to 16 £5, and a family ticket for two adults and three children £30. Wheelchair users and their registered carers are not charged. Historic Houses members go free.
When are Drummond Castle Gardens open?
The gardens open from 1 May to 31 October. From June to September they open 11am to 5pm, and in October 11am to 4pm, with last entry an hour before closing.
Are dogs allowed at Drummond Castle Gardens?
Yes, dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times. A water bowl is available near the ticket office.
Is Drummond Castle Gardens accessible?
The gardens are on a steep hillside and the main way in is down several flights of steps. Ask at the ticket office for the lower entrance; the suggested wheelchair and buggy route uses firmer grass paths, and a viewing area near the ticket office is available on request.