Glamis castle launches virtual and guide-free tours - here's what to expect

Glamis Castle has launched virtual and guide-free tours as WiFi is introduced to the historical, Royal abode for the first time.
Glamis Castle is offering guide-free and virtual tours for the first time.Glamis Castle is offering guide-free and virtual tours for the first time.
Glamis Castle is offering guide-free and virtual tours for the first time.

The Royal castle, which is best known as the childhood home of HM The Queen Mother and the birthplace of HRH Princess Margaret, has installed WiFi to facilitate the enhancements – a first in its 648-year history.

Guide-free tours

The historic Angus castle, located just 20 minutes from Dundee, will once again welcome visitors thanks to new, guide-free tours around the castle from 15th July. Visitors will be accompanied by an interactive visual guide as they make their way through the footsteps of Royals past; where walls have born witness to some of Scotland and Britain’s historical moments.

Virtual tours

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For those unable to make it in person, the all-new online virtual tours provide an immersive and accessible way to explore the array of ornate rooms and ancient passageways from the comfort of their own homes.

The interactive, 360-degree experience takes virtual visitors on a fascinating journey through history, from the Victorian splendour of the Dining Room to the infamous Secret Room in the crypt.

Virtual visitors can get up close and gaze at the Italian stucco ceiling of the Drawing Room – formally the Great Hall – before taking a moment to appreciate the private Chapel, praised as one of the finest in Northern Europe.

Legendary tales of historic figures – such as Mary, Queen of Scots and Pretender to the throne James VIII – are traced through the many prominent rooms in both the virtual tours and onsite guide-free tours.

The reopening of the castle to visitors, both physically and virtually, follows the reopening of the extensive grounds and gardens on Monday 29 June, initially to locals within a five-mile radius.

For coffee and cake or a leisurely lunch, take away food and drink celebrating Glamis’ rich farming heritage will be available, or visitors can enjoy a picnic in the gardens.

Pre-packed picnic hampers are also available to buy, making the post-lockdown day out even more enjoyable.

Safety measures

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To ensure enhanced safety for customers and staff, some new measures have been introduced across the castle and garden, including a one-way system and hand sanitising facilities throughout.

All tickets must be booked in advance with a date and time slot. Tickets for the castle tours are available to book online from 13 July while the Castle will be open to visitors onsite from Wednesday 15 July.

Staying on the estate

Glamis House, a self-catering retreat for up to 13 set on the Glamis Castle Estate, which has played host to the Queen, is available to book with prices from £1,390 for two nights. There’s also the smaller option of No 8 Main Street, which is an 18th Century cottage that offers a rural hideaway for up to six people (and well-behaved pets) within walking distance of the castle and grounds. Prices start from £360 for two nights.

To book a tour or find out more about accommodation, visit the Glamis Castle website.

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