Family Escapes this Autumn: Pumpkins, Playgrounds & Pink Palaces at Drumlanrig Castle
Drumlanrig Castle & Country Estate is where culture, countryside and quiet luxury meet. This is Scotland at its most magnificent.
Drumlanrig Castle and estate lives and breathes every season
An hour from the Borders and 90 minutes from Edinburgh or Glasgow, Drumlanrig is an estate that lives and breathes the seasons. Autumn is perhaps its most magical moment: vibrant trees, crisp woodland walks, hearty food and rooms that whisper history. Whether you’re drawn to Rembrandt or to outdoor adventure, this is a destination that feels both restorative and alive.
There are places you visit, and places you stay. Then there’s Drumlanrig, where the two become one. This remarkable estate in Dumfries and Galloway is home to the spectacular 17th-century pink sandstone Drumlanrig Castle, lovingly known as the Pink Palace, but it’s also where you’ll find some of Scotland’s most charming self-catering accommodation — from family-friendly cottages and elegant apartments to Dabton House, a Georgian residence once home to the Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch.
This autumn, the estate is at its best for families. The Adventure Playground remains open until the end of October, with towers, zip wires and climbing structures set against ancient trees, while Drumlanrig’s sell-out Halloween Trail and Pumpkin Patch bring seasonal magic to the grounds. With woodland walks, guided tours and private dining on hand, it’s a place that offers far more than just a base.
Things to Do at Drumlanrig
(October Highlights)
Head to Drumlanrig for Halloween fun this October
Halloween Trail & Pumpkin Patch
Family-friendly fun with spooky clues, characters and a picture-perfect pumpkin patch. Dates: 11–13, 17–20 and 24–26 October 2025. Booking essential.
Halloween Craft Workshops
Creative fun for younger visitors in the Larchwood Cabin. Dates: 14 and 21 October, sessions at 10:30am–11:30am and 2pm–3pm.
Kids can enjoy the adventure playground until the end of October
Adventure Playground
Wooden towers, zip wires, slides and swings. Open daily until 31 October; closed for the winter season thereafter.
Enjoy walking trails around Drumlanrig estate
Walking Trails
Enjoy everything from gentle riverside strolls to 7km hikes with spectacular Drumlanrig castle views.
Private Castle Tours
Bespoke tours tailored to your interests, available year-round. From £250 for up to 8 guests.
Clay pigeon shooting on Drumlanrig Estate
Have-a-Go Clays
Try clay pigeon shooting with expert tuition available.
Fishing
Cast a line on the River Nith or estate lochs, with ghillie service available.
E-bikes
Explore the estate on two wheels, year-round.
Whisky Tastings
Claxton’s luxury whisky experiences at Dabton, on the moors or nearby.
A Place to Stay, A Place to Stay Put
Drumlanrig offers a diverse collection of self-catering properties, each with its own style, setting and story. At the top of the tree, Dabton House is a magnificent Georgian residence, recently restored with exacting detail. Sleeping up to 24, it is the perfect base for multi-generational gatherings, birthdays or celebrations, with roaring fires, heritage interiors and the option of private catering.
For smaller groups or families, the estate’s three castle apartments (sleeping 2–6) and five cottages (sleeping up to 8) provide comfort and individuality. Montagu and Queensberry Cottages, both new additions, bring a boutique, contemporary feel, while Slatehouse and Laundry offer indulgent extras such as hot tubs and even a pizza oven. All are dog-friendly, with enclosed gardens for peace of mind.
Your Accommodation Options at Drumlanrig
Enjoy a stay in one of the self-catering cottages at Drumlanrig
Chill in your own hot tub during your stay
Self-Catering Cottages at Drumlanrig
There are five dog-friendly homes with enclosed gardens and hot tubs on the estate.
Montagu & Queensberry – three-bedroom cottages (sleeps six) with fresh, contemporary design.
Slatehouse – four bedrooms, sleeps eight, with a wood-fired hot tub.
Laundry – three bedrooms, sleeps six, with a hot tub and pizza oven.
Castle Apartments
Three stylish stays within the castle’s Stableyard/East Wing, sleeping 2–6
Dabton House sleeps up to 24
Dabton House
An elegant Georgian residence 10 minutes away, with 11 en-suite bedrooms, a library, games room and private catering options. Sleeps up to 24.
One of the joys of Drumlanrig is that you don’t need to go far to do a lot — or a little. The Victorian gardens are a delight in autumn, alive with late-season colour, while the castle’s internationally renowned art collection, Rembrandt included, provides a cultural hit if the weather turns. For food lovers, the estate’s Executive Chef delivers beautifully prepared meals direct to your door — whether a celebratory supper, Afternoon Tea or al fresco feast.
And if you’re tempted a little escape to Drumlanrig this autumn, here’s an exclusive: Hood readers enjoy 15% off stays across the estate with code HOOD15, valid until the end of 2026 (excludes Christmas & New Year).