Inveraray Castle and Garden
Inveraray Castle and Garden

Inveraray Castle and Garden

United Kingdom
United Kingdom

When Is the Best Time

The very best weeks for the garden are the end of May and beginning of June. At this time of the year, the huge rhododendrons and azaleas are in bloom. My visit was at the end of June, and I only got an idea that it must be magnificent a few weeks earlier.

Opening Hours

The castle and garden are open to the public after Easter until the end of October from 10 a.m., and the last admission is at 5 p.m. 

Avoiding Crowds

It gets crowded at midday. To enjoy the castle and the garden with few people only arrive early at 10 a.m.

Tip

Tours to the private apartments are offered once a year for several weeks by arrangement only.

Best Months to Visit

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Related Topics

Location and Tips

Scotland, Argyll, Inveraray
United Kingdom
United Kingdom

The castle is well known from Downtown Abbey Christmas episode 2012 and was called "Duneagle Castle". 

The foundation stone of Inveraray Castle was laid in 1746 and was finished 43 years later. The today's castle is the result of a fire in 1877. The castle is still the home of the Duke of Argyll and his family. Several rooms at the ground floor, first floor, and the kitchen at the basement can be visited, The traditional tea room and gift shop are also situated at the basement, There is a huge parking space for buses and cars. The entrance fee for adults is 11 Pound (2017) for the castle and garden. Plan at least 1 1/2 hours to explore the castle, garden and the woodland walk with trees over hundred years old. An old silver fir was planted in 1880.

Inveraray village is located on the banks of Loch Fyne, almost 40 miles from Oban and 60 miles from Glasgow and easy to reach by bus.

More information about Inveraray Castle

Where to Stay

In walking distance is Inveraray with a variety of accommodations. I spent a night at the "Brambles of Inveraray" and enjoyed a healthy rich breakfast and lunch as well. 

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Micha Herber-Bleich
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