Kellie Castle

Sightseeing attraction | Anstruther | Scotland | United Kingdom

Historical estate in Scotland

Kellie Castle is an impressive historical estate near Anstruther in Scotland, which has a long and fascinating history. The castle dates back to the 14th century and has been expanded and redesigned multiple times over the centuries. It is considered an outstanding example of Scottish architecture and is known for its intricate interiors, spectacular gardens, and picturesque location in the rural surroundings of Fife.

Scottish architecture Kellie Castle

The castle was the seat of the Oliphant family for several generations, who transformed it into a magnificent mansion in the 16th century. It later passed into the ownership of the Lorimer family, who saved it from decay in the 19th century and lovingly restored it. The Scottish architect Sir Robert Lorimer played a significant role in the restoration, designing numerous elaborate furniture pieces and decorative elements that are still present in the castle today.

Restoration of Kellie Castle

Inside Kellie Castle, visitors will find an impressive collection of antique furniture, intricate wall paintings, and detailed wood carvings. The ornate ceilings, decorative wall panels, and portraits of historical figures create an authentic atmosphere within the castle. Many of the rooms are preserved as they were used by the Lorimer family, providing a deep insight into the life of that time.

Antique furniture and murals

The surroundings of Kellie Castle are as impressive as the building itself. The well-kept gardens, belonging to the castle, are known for their colorful flower beds, historic fruit trees, and fragrant herb beds. Maintained in the traditional style, they reflect garden art from past centuries. The blooming plants offer a picturesque ambiance, especially in spring and summer. Additionally, there are numerous hiking trails in the vicinity of the castle, leading through the idyllic landscape and offering breathtaking views of the coastal region of Fife.

Beautiful gardens at Kellie Castle

Kellie Castle is not only an architectural gem but also a culturally significant place. It has served as an inspiration for artists and writers and plays an important role in Scottish history. The estate is now managed by an organization dedicated to preserving and maintaining the historical heritage, allowing visitors to experience the castle and its surroundings in an authentic atmosphere.

Contact details

Web

Phone

Address
Kellie Castle
Pittenweem
KY10 2RE Anstruther

Map view

Opening hours

Sunday11:00 - 16:00
Monday--
Tuesday--
Wednesday--
Thursday11:00 - 16:00
Friday11:00 - 16:00
Saturday11:00 - 16:00

Reviews

683 Reviews

Cristina Buzio
20.01.2025

Bello
Robert Hughes
09.01.2025

It was closed and had little information available
Merlo Claudio
22.11.2024

We wanted to visit the castle on a sunday afternoon - unfortunately the castle wasnt open despite google showed that it is open until 4pm. We would love to see the garden maybe a next time
Caroline Lawrie
18.10.2024

Coffee shop was fantastic
Conor Bolton
16.10.2024

Nice place. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and the coffee and cakes are good
Claire Stadler
13.10.2024

Well maintained, friendly staff, lovely tearoom. Would have liked more in depth early history but decent tour guided experience.
Queenie Rica
06.10.2024

Excellent. We had a good chance to ask few questions to amazing tour guides on Sunday 06 October 2024 . Interesting collection of arts and furnitures. We also visited the palace garden plenty fruit trees.
Elaine Rawson
26.09.2024

With friendly Knowledgeable guides and a castle full of history what's not to like. I really enjoyed my visit.
Wee Douglas
22.09.2024

Stunning place, gardens amazing. Unfortunately cafe and gift shop closed but didn't deter the experience. Coffee and cake were available for donations.
Lorraine
09.09.2024

Lovely location helpful and friendly staff
Cats Father
08.09.2024

Great venue and excellent tour provided to us by Martin.
Tricia Stewart
07.09.2024

It was a wonderful experience and so informative. The paths through the were more like a nature trail. All of the research and information from St Andrews uni was amazing. The plan sales were great. Definitely the best garden I have been to.
Irina Stupakova
03.09.2024

Guided tours only. Taking photos is allowed. Non-NTS member parking is £4. The castle is very nice and full of history, with beautiful interiors, original artwork and a well looked after garden. The downside for me was our guide, she was reading from the papers, shuffling through them, was turning her back on the group so you couldn’t hear what she’s saying and even walking away talking about the next room while the whole group was still in the previous room. There’s tearoom and a gift shop on the territory too. The toilets are in a separate little building amongst the trees to the side of the castle
Zulu 900
29.08.2024

Lovely setting in lovely grounds with lovely plants.
Liz Kidd
29.08.2024

Lovely visit!
George L
27.08.2024

Very interesting if you are a Fifer. Full of history related by a volunteer guide. Well worth a visit if you’re interested in history. Be aware,Cafe on site can often be closed with no warning.
Andris Kokins
26.08.2024

Lovely place to visit. A very interesting guided tour.
A Blake
25.08.2024

Beautifully restored family sized castle, now in the care of the National Trust ... good guides, walled garden, good tea room of course.
Fiona Mcleod
20.08.2024

Well worth a visit
Ian Cameron
18.08.2024

Very interesting tour
Eddie Slade
17.08.2024

Enjoyed the guided tour of the house.
George Miller
15.08.2024

Stunning castle with knowledgable guides. Tea room staff were friendly and helpful, gardens are also a delight.
Nicola Hincks
12.08.2024

Adequate parking which was well signposted on arrival. Kellie castle had several activities available which meant there was a relaxed atmosphere with option to have a quick, whirlwind visit or you could easily spend the entire day and be absorbed in the atmosphere. There were picnic blankets available with prompts for visitors to borrow, and sit a while under the beautiful tree. Beside the blankets, a picnic basket filled with coloured wood pencils and drawing paper invited you to sit,take in the surroundings and draw what you see. The tours were timed and booked on arrival at Kellie's Castle shop/reception desk. If you have to wait for a tour slot to become available the garden is very much worth exploring with fruits,veg and tranquil seated areas, maintained fantastically! Kellie castle tour takes approx 1 hour but is detailed with information of the most recent family who lived their and really made it a home which is obvious as you walk through. Recommended for educational,relaxed and positive health and wellbeing day out.
Vicky Cameron
11.08.2024

Beautiful castle, lovely food. Stunning gardens

 

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