FOLLOWING extensive restoration work, one of the region's finest castles is about to throw open its historic doors.

Dating back to the 16th century, Thirlestane Castle not only has a beautiful, fairytale exterior but its insides have now been returned to their former glory.

Restoration work, which began in 2013 on the discovery of an outbreak of dry rot and led to an 18-months closure, is continuing but almost all of the public areas of the historic Borders castle are back to their best.

In the grand state rooms, visitors can discover some of the finest decorative plasterwork ceilings in Europe, as well one of the most extensive family collections of portraits and busts in Scotland, fine furnishings, and Maitland family treasures.

Edward Maitland-Carew, one of the family trustees, told the Border Telegraph: “We are looking forward to welcoming visitors and their families and friends to Thirlestane Castle, and for them to see the difference their support makes to ensure the ongoing preservation of this beautiful, historic building for future generations to enjoy.”

Thanks to the hard work of the Friends of Thirlestane, the Castle is opening for additional days this summer.

From next week, all the way through to October 2, Thirlestane will be open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 10am to 3pm. (last admission).

The Castle grounds are open from 10am to 5pm each day.

Children an explore the old family nurseries, historic toy collection, woodland walk and adventure playground.

James Barnes, chairman of the Thirlestane Castle Trust, said: “Thirlestane Castle holds an important place in Scottish history, and we also need to look to its future to ensure its sustainability.

"It is an exciting time of change for the Castle and we are continuing to work on plans to extend its range of commercial activities.”

Captain Gerald Maitland-Carew inherited the Castle in 1972 from his maternal grandmother, Ethel, Countess of Lauderdale, wife of the 15th Earl.

The castle was in a serious state of disrepair, requiring extensive renovation.

In 1984 Thirlestane Castle was gifted to a charitable trust established to ensure its preservation, and major repairs were carried out.

Gerald's son Edward, and his wife Sarah, moved to Thirlestane in September 2012.

The Castle and its grounds are regularly used for spectacular large events such as the annual Borders Historic Motoring Extravaganza, which is being held in June.

And on Sunday, June 12, visitors are invited to join in celebrations to mark Her Majesty’s 90th birthday and also the 400th anniversary of the birth of the first Duke of Lauderdale, John Maitland.

Thirlestane Castle is the historic home of the Duke of Lauderdale, and it still remains a family home to the Maitland family.