Rising dramatically against the fertile backdrop of Angus, Glamis Castle is widely considered one of the most striking and historically significant buildings in all of Scotland. With its striking French chateau-style turrets, towering central keep, and centuries of royal connections, Glamis looks straight out of a storybook.

Beyond its architectural beauty lies over 600 years of royal births, political intrigue, Shakespearean drama, and lingering ghost folklore. Here is the captivating history of Glamis Castle and why it remains such a crucial landmark in Scotland's national heritage.

Royal Beginnings: The Seat of the Earls of Strathmore

The land upon which Glamis Castle stands was originally a royal hunting lodge in the 10th century. In 1372, King Robert II granted the estate to Sir John Lyon in recognition of his service to the Crown. Shortly after, Sir John married the King’s daughter, Princess Joanna, binding the estate to the Scottish royal bloodline.

For over 650 years, Glamis has served as the ancestral home to the Lyon family (later the Bowes-Lyon family, Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne). Unlike many historic Scottish fortresses that fell into ruin or changed hands during political upheavals, Glamis has remained continuously inhabited by the same lineage for over six centuries.

Literary Fame: The Shakespeare & Macbeth Connection

Glamis holds an enduring place in global literature thanks to William Shakespeare. In his famous tragedy Macbeth, the titular character is introduced as the Thane of Glamis.

While the real 11th-century King Malcolm II was indeed assassinated near Glamis long before the current castle was built, Shakespeare picked the fortress as the dramatic setting for King Duncan’s murder. While the historical events differ from those in the play, the legend attached to the castle has drawn literary tourists to Angus for centuries.

Modern Royal Heritage: Home of the Queen Mother & Princess Margaret

In the 20th century, Glamis Castle cemented its status in modern British and Scottish royal history:

• Childhood Home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother: Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, daughter of the 14th Earl of Strathmore, spent much of her happy childhood running through the halls and gardens of Glamis before marrying the future King George VI.

• Birthplace of Princess Margaret: In August 1930, Princess Margaret Rose was born at Glamis Castle—making her the first royal baby born in Scotland in over 300 years since King Charles I in 1600.

Walking through the castle’s apartments today offers an intimate look at personal royal family heirlooms, letters, and portraits that cannot be found anywhere else.

Scotland’s Most Haunted Castle?

No discussion of Glamis Castle is complete without its famous ghost lore. Glamis has long held the reputation of being one of the most haunted places in Britain, featuring several legendary tales:

• The Grey Lady: Said to be the spirit of Janet Douglas, Lady Glamis, who was falsely accused of witchcraft and executed by King James V in 1537. Her spirit is said to frequent the castle chapel.

• Earl Beardie (The Monster of Glamis): Legend tells of a cruel 15th-century Earl who gambled with the Devil himself on the Sabbath in a secret hidden room, condemned to play cards until Judgment Day.

Why You Should Visit Glamis Castle Today

Located just an hour's drive from Edinburgh and Aberdeen, Glamis Castle offers a complete day out for history enthusiasts, garden lovers, and families alike.

• Guided Tours: Expert local guides walk you through rooms frozen in time, including the Victorian Dining Room, the Drawing Room with its spectacular 1620 plasterwork ceiling, and the Royal Apartments.

• The Gardens & Grounds: Explore the manicured Italian Garden, the Walled Garden, and the tranquil Nature Trail that winds along the Dean Water.

Plan Your Trip: Glamis Castle is open to visitors throughout the spring and summer season. Be sure to check tour times in advance and grab a warm cup of tea and a scone at the Castle Kitchen!

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