Due to access restrictions in place as a precautionary measure while we undertake high level masonry inspections, there is currently no visitor access to this site.
Find out more about our conservation work
The beauty of Edzell was a statement of the prestige of its owners, the Lindsays.
Edzell was home to the Lindsays, a gifted yet tragic noble family whose head became the Earl of Crawford and one of the most powerful men in the realm. The Lindsay’s most famous guests include Mary Queen of Scots in 1562 and her son James VI in 1580 and 1589.
The 'Pleasance' is a delightful formal garden with walls decorated with sculptured stone panels, flower boxes and niches for nesting birds. Explore the summer house, the great garden, the 16th century tower house and Lindsay Aisle - the family burial vault.
The grounds comprise of grass and cobble surfaces, and there is a ramp to the visitor centre. All parts of the garden and its display board are accessible. Due to the cobbles and steps the castle itself is not suitable for visitors with a physical disability. Visitors with disabilities can be set down at the castle and garden entrance.
Very occasionally the property has to close at short notice due to adverse weather conditions or other reasons out with our control. Please check the Historic Scotland closures page for any unexpected site closures https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/check-for-closures/. You can also follow closure tweets from @welovehistory using #hsclosure. Alternatively please call the site before setting off to check they are open.