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The Buccaneers-Inspired Stays in the South of Scotland

by Scotland Starts Here
The Nith Valley at Drumlanrig Country Estate
The Buccaneers-Inspired Stays in the South of Scotland
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Have you ever dreamed of stepping into your favourite TV series? Now’s your chance. The Buccaneers, now on Apple TV+, is a glittering period drama that has turned the spotlight on the stunning South of Scotland. Historic estates and grand houses are transformed into the backdrop of 19th century romance and scandal. And the best part? You can stay in many of the exact filming locations.

If you’re planning a unique getaway that blends luxury, history, and theatrical scenery, here’s the places in the South of Scotland that should be on your list.

Drumlanrig Castle Cottages

One of the most iconic Buccaneers filming locations, Drumlanrig Castle in Dumfries and Galloway, doubles as the opulent English estate Tintagel in the series. With its fairytale turrets, rose-hued sandstone walls, and 90,000-acre estate, Drumlanrig isn’t just a filming set but a regal experience.

You can tour the castle itself or book a stay in one of the charming holiday cottages nestled within the grounds. The East Wing at Drumlanrig Castle offers direct views of the iconic entrance with its sweeping entrance. Just two minutes from the castle you will find the charming Montagu and Laundry Cottages, each with a private garden. Laundry Cottage even boasts a hot tub for those who don’t want to miss modern luxuries.

Alternatively, opt for a more secluded retreat on the estate. Queensberry Cottage and Drumlanrig Mains Cottage offer all the romantic Victorian charm. The drama is delivered by the views surrounding the cottages. Wake up to misty views of the Nith Valley hills wander through ancient woodlands, or cycle along scenic trails. Staying at Drumlanrig Castle Estate means living like the Duke and Duchess of Tintagel.

The East Wing at Drumlanrig Castle offers stunning views of the castle and estate

Thirlestane Castle’s South Wing

Another Buccaneers filming gem is Thirlestane Castle near Lauder in the Scottish Borders. The lavish state rooms of this magnificent 16th-century pile were used for several settings in the series, and the rich interiors are as extravagant in real life as they appear on screen.

What makes Thirlestane special is that you can stay overnight in luxurious self-catering apartments within the castle’s South Wing. Choose from five grand self-catered suites with stunning views, for the perfect mix of authenticity and comfort. Feel like the 14th Earl & Countess of Lauderdale in the three-bedroom suite that used to be their private chambers, or opt for The Lauderdale suite with its grand canopy bed in the striking Maitland tartan.

You can even relive the grandeur and drama of The Buccaneers with the Ultimate Castle Experience. Step into the role of Earl or Countess and round off your stay with a three-course dinner in the dramatic portrait-lined State Dining Room that appeared in the TV series.

The Lauderdale Apartment, Phil Wilkinson
Thirlestane Castle offers a choice five self-catering apartments as well as exclusive castle stays

Kailzie Estate

In The Buccaneers, many a romantic conversation and flirtation happens among colourful displays of roses and perfectly manicured lawns. So what better way to recreate the series’ atmosphere than a stay in a 19th-century walled garden?

Kailzie Estate in the Tweed Valley offers a choice of five holiday cottages with private garden access after hours. Whatever season you choose to stay, there is something to discover. The sprawling estate’s tranquil woodland walks turn shades of gold and red in the autumn, snowdrops take over in early spring, and the green houses are filled with bright fuchsias and exotics in the summer alongside fragrant rose displays and herbaceous borders.

Inside the cottages, the gardens have been brought in with lush green furnishings, soft pastels reminiscent of the rose garden and handcrafted details. Here, guests can relax and unwind in style. Each cottage boast a cosy log burner, clawfoot tub and views across the estate.

Walled Garden, Kailzie, Kailzie Estate
Kailzie Estate offers holiday cottages with after-hours access to the walled garden

Cringletie

The grand mansions and estates of The Buccaneers are just one swoon-worthy aspect of the series. Lavish dinner parties and the romance of the 19th-century upper class are another. If it is an indulgent stay with outstanding food and service you’re after to create your perfect stay, Cringletie should be on your list.

This striking 19th-century baronial mansion is now a four-star hotel with a 2 AA-Rosette restaurant. Produce comes from the estate’s own walled kitchen garden, inspiring many of the dishes on the nightly 5- and 7-course dinner menu. Set on a 28-acre estate, the elegant country house also boasts individually designed rooms with views across the local hills.

Head Gardener’s House at Floors Castle

It may have been the landscapes around the charming market town of Kelso that were used as backdrops for The Buccaneers and not Floors Castle itself. Still, it’s easy to see how a stay on its estate will transport you right into the series.

Within the Walled Garden of the castle sits the Head Gardener’s House. Lovingly restored, the outside echoes the castle’s playful roof line, while the sumptuous interiors will have you relaxing in style. For that extra touch of romance, guests staying here have private access to the stunning walled gardens after hours. Wander among the colourful displays and herbaceous borders, just like the heroines on screen.

Enjoy private access to the Walled Gardens when staying at Floors Castle

Plan your Buccaneers-Inspired Escape

If you’re ready to live your own high-society adventure, the South of Scotland is calling. Immerse yourself in the locations and atmosphere that brought The Buccaneers to life. Book your stay in a castle apartment, create your own sense of on-screen magic, and soak up the unspoiled beauty of Scotland’s cinematic south.