Thirlestane Castle

IT is one of the oldest castles in Scotland and opens its doors to the public again next week.

Thirlestane Castle in Lauder boasts one of the most extensive family collections of portraits and busts in the country.

And, this year, they are being reinstated in the state dining room with a new state of the art lighting system later this year.

The portraits represent the work of many famous artists such as Romney, Reynolds, Lawrence and Lely. Further star portraits, which have been loaned to Thirlestane Castle Trust by the Maitland Trust, will be shown for the first time as part of this collection and include a portrait by Reynolds.

Work has continued to restore parts of the castle affected by the outbreak of dry rot in 2013, back to its former glory.

Thanks to the loyalty and hard work of the Friends of Thirlestane, the Castle’s team of dedicated volunteers, the children’s Nurseries and Maitland Room, always firm favourites with visitors, are being reinstated ahead of it reopening on Tuesday, May 26, for the summer season.

The Castle also sees changes to its Board of Trustees. Neil Hynd, who has been Chairman since 2007 and with the Trust for 12 years, retires in May and hands over to James Barnes.

James said: “I am really looking forward to working with the other Trustees at this exciting time of change and opportunity at Thirlestane Castle.

“The Castle is one of the Borders’ most important buildings and our goal is to secure its sustainability for many generations to come.” Other new trustees include Rufus Bird (Royal Collection), Hamish Baillie (Ruffer) and Michael Clarke (Scottish National Gallery).

Thirlestane Castle is going through a very exciting time as the Trustees make a full assessment of the future options for the castle. A team of professionals has been assembled to help the Trustees explore a full range of commercial activities. Further details to be announced later this year.

The Castle grounds will host the Borders Vintage Car Rally on Sunday, June 7.