For Nan Saint Clair, Tintagel Castle is more of a lavish prison—a place that keeps her in the role of Duchess but far from her true love. There are allusions in The Buccaneers that the castle may once have been occupied by King Arthur (meaning it would be in Wales rather than England), but in reality, the local accent is Scottish. That’s right—the location is real and in another country.

While The Buccaneers uses more than one castle to portray Tintagel—most notably Culzean Castle and Tantallon Castle—it’s Drumlanrig Castle that stands out the most. It certainly ranks among the most impressive and fascinating historical castles in Scotland.

Built in the late 17th century, Drumlanrig is a jewel of French Renaissance architecture in the heart of Dumfries and Galloway, in southwest Scotland. It’s the ancestral home of the Dukes of Queensberry, one of the most powerful noble families in the region and the country.

But before diving into the castle’s rich interior, it’s worth exploring the origin of the name Drumlanrig. Derived from the Scottish Gaelic Druim Lanraig, it can be translated as “ridge of the small hill” or “slope of the small field.” The name hints at the castle’s elevated, strategic location—surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, making it a perfect aristocratic residence and defensive stronghold.

Construction of the current castle began in 1679 with the clear goal of reflecting the power and grandeur of the Douglas family, the Dukes of Queensberry. This lineage has a long and influential history in Scotland, playing pivotal roles in political, social, and military events. The title Duke of Queensberry was created in 1684 for William Douglas, and the family remained central to Scotland’s development, especially through the Union of the Crowns and the turbulent political changes of the 18th century.

Drumlanrig is not your typical dark and somber medieval fortress. It was conceived and built in the French Renaissance style, giving it an elegance rarely found in Scottish castles. Its symmetrical facade is marked by battlemented towers and large windows, giving it more of a fortified palace feel than a mere fortress.

Inside, the castle is even more breathtaking. Its grand rooms feature high ceilings with carved wood details, centuries-old tapestries, and an art collection rivaling those of renowned museums. The Douglas family has amassed works by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck, along with antique furniture, sculptures, and artifacts that tell the story of Europe and Scotland through every corner.

The entrance hall is striking, setting the tone for the castle’s opulence and historical weight. The grand dining room—with its long tables and majestic chandeliers—looks as though it stepped out of a period drama. The library houses rare volumes and ancient manuscripts, while the private chapel offers a quiet space of spirituality, typical of noble estates of the time.

There are also luxurious bedrooms, including the duchess’s suite, still decorated in original style with canopy beds and exquisite fabrics. The surrounding gardens are equally impressive—spanning over 40 acres with formal layouts, fountains, woodland paths, and even a dedicated adventure playground for children, open most of the year.

Beyond its architectural and historical significance, Drumlanrig Castle is also a beloved location for film and television. It featured in Outlander, specifically Season 2, Episode 11, titled “Vengeance Is Mine”. In the show, it stood in for Bellhurst Manor, the estate of the Duke of Sandringham. The castle’s interiors and exteriors perfectly captured the aristocratic atmosphere of the 18th century. In one key scene, Claire Fraser is locked in a bedroom that, historically, was once used by Bonnie Prince Charlie—adding another layer of authenticity to the location.

More recently, Drumlanrig Castle gained further recognition as the fictional Tintagel Castle in The Buccaneers, Apple TV+’s sumptuous period drama set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The castle was chosen for its grandeur and timeless beauty to portray the noble family residence in the series. The transformation from Drumlanrig to Tintagel was achieved through careful set design and cinematography, taking full advantage of both its majestic exterior and refined interiors in key scenes.

This versatility makes Drumlanrig one of the most captivating sites for lovers of history, architecture, and pop culture alike.

For those who wish to visit, Drumlanrig Castle is open to the public, usually from April to September, with guided tours running Friday through Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., lasting about an hour. Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during the high season.

The gardens stay open longer—generally from March to October, between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Visitors can enjoy the formal gardens, walking paths, fountains, and the adventure playground.

Ticket prices vary: a full castle tour, which includes access to the gardens and parking, costs about £18 for adults, with discounts for children and students. Those who prefer just the gardens and outdoor areas can purchase a more affordable entry.

The castle is located in Thornhill, Dumfries & Galloway (DG3 4AQ). For more information, bookings, and event listings, visit the official website: www.drumlanrigcastle.co.uk.

Whether for the legacy of the Douglas family, its stunning art collection, its elegant architecture, or its appearances in iconic series like Outlander and The Buccaneers, Drumlanrig Castle is a place that captures the imagination and transports you through time. A must-see destination for anyone longing to experience the noble and cinematic soul of Scotland.