Explore the South of Scotland Through the Glamorous Lens of The Buccaneers

If you’re enchanted by period dramas and the sweeping romance of The Buccaneers, now streaming on Apple TV+, you’re in for a treat in the South of Scotland. Though the stylish series transports viewers to the opulence of Gilded Age New York and aristocratic England, much it was actually filmed right here in Dumfries & Galloway and the Scottish Borders.

The South of Scotland is a region steeped in history. Dotted with grand houses and enchanting gardens, framed by dramatic cliffs and picturesque harbour towns in the east and south-west. No wonder it has become a favourite on the big and small screen.

Whether you’re a fan of The Buccaneers or just love beautiful locations, we have rounded up top filming spots to explore. Who knows, perhaps these places can become the backdrop to your story, too?

Drumlanrig Castle, Thornhill

The stunning ‘Pink Palace’ has a starring role in The Buccaneers as Tintagel Castle in both Season 1 and 2. Theo’s lavish family estate is just as impressive in real life. Its sandstone facade stands out among the hills and parklands. And with its sweeping staircases, ornate rooms, and an incredible art collection, Drumlanrig brings the elegance of 19th-century high society to life.

Those who have watched the show will feel as if they have stepped right into some of the iconic scenes. Ascend the horseshoe staircase just like the guests of the Season 2 finale masquerade ball, or peek into the Bonnie Prince Charlie Bedroom aka Theo’s room to reminisce about his standout dance performance. The castle’s grand oak staircase meanwhile was the backdrop to many a tense scene for Nan.

Visitors can easily spend a full day exploring – and yes, even stay on the estate. Join a guided castle tour of the interiors and explore the rooms featured on the show, or take a closer look at the works by Rembrandt and Gainsborough. The sprawling estate also offers scenic woodland trails to explore on foot or by bike, with the iconic turrets visible far into the distance. While away some time in the gardens like Nan and Theo’s wedding guests, or relax under the famous sycamore, just like the characters do in the show.

Carolside House & Gardens, Earlston

Carolside Gardens doubles as the charming Runnymede country estate in The Buccaneers. Fans will quickly recognize Conchita’s home, the elegant Georgian mansion, its manicured lawns and terraces, seen during scenes like Theo’s heartfelt moment with Nan in Season 1.

Here, creating a romantic atmosphere does not require additional movie magic. The gardens are renowned for their exceptional collection of historic roses, lining every path and filling the air with their scent. They’re also home to the National Collection of Gallica Roses, likely the oldest variety of garden roses. Lovingly developed by the owners over decades, each garden room has its own colour scheme. It is no wonder Carolside is regarded as among the finest rose gardens in Europe.

With the gardens only open to the public from May to July, visitors can be sure of seeing stunning floral displays. Do as the Buccaneers do in the series, and arrange an exclusive lunch or even afternoon tea for your visit. Arrangements can be made on request.

Thirlestane Castle, Lauder

Those in the know will immediately recognise the interiors of Thirlestane Castle in Lauder. This 16th-century castle’s grand interiors star as various rooms in the series. Look out for Nan’s dress fitting in Season 2 with the pale green wallpaper in the background: It’s the castle’s stunning drawing room. The State Dining Room, lined by an extensive collection of family portraits, appears as the art room.

Beyond the screen, Thirlestane Castle boasts intricate Dunsterfield plasterwork ceilings. The embellishments in every room make it easy to see why this location is a perfect backdrop for the series.

St Abb’s Head National Nature Reserve, St Abbs

The south-east of Scotland doubles for the coastline of Cornwall in Season 1 of The Buccaneers. Here, the girls toast just before Nan’s wedding at the iconic St Abb’s Head. Follow the Berwickshire Coastal Path to see another filming location: The dramatic Pettico Wick Bay.

Already renowned as New Asgard in The Avengers and a backdrop for many other movies, the national nature reserve offers beautiful views and walks for varying abilities. Depending on the time of year, visitors will encounter the seabird colonies or be able to spy seal pups on the pebble beaches.

Make sure to follow the Outdoor Access Code and be mindful of local wildlife as you go exploring along this stunning stretch of coastline.

Manderston House, near Duns

Manderston House features prominently in the Apple TV+ series as the lavish St George family mansion. Its grand interiors, including the world’s only known silver-plated staircase, were used extensively in the show. Look closely and you will also recognise the marble entrance hall, damask-draped ballroom, and parlour. The elegant setting helped bring the grandeur of the St George residence to life on screen.

Beyond the interiors, the boat house on the estate also provided the backdrop for a quieter, romantic moment in the series between Mabel and Honoria.

Fans keen to see the splendour for themselves can plan a visit. The house opens for guided tours on select dates during spring. You can even bring a picnic to enjoy in the grounds.

Walks and landscapes around Kelso

While the town doesn’t directly feature in the series, the landscapes around Kelso do. And with its picturesque main square and shops, the town deserves to be on any The Buccaneers fan’s list of locations to visit. Embark on walks in lush woodlands and along local estates, you’ll feel like the main character of your own story.

But the traditional market town actually has its own The Buccaneers-style story to tell. Some 20 years after the events of the series, the 8th Duke of Roxburgh fell in love with and subsequently married an American heiress – Duchess May. They lived at Floors Castle just outside Kelso, where the duchess took the lead in remodeling and refitting their stately residency.

Today, Floors Castle is Scotland’s largest still inhabited castle. Wander the colourful gardens or admire the stunning architecture with its fairytale turrets.

Explore further on the SWC300

You don’t need to be a rebellious heiress to follow the footsteps of The Buccaneers across the South of Scotland. Head out on a set-jetting adventure by following the South West Coastal 300. The driving route is a great way to connect The Buccaneers filming locations of Drumlanrig Castle in Dumfries & Galloway and Culzean Castle in Ayrshire. On the way, it passes through the dramatic passes of the Leadhills towards Scotland’s highest village. Alternstively, head onwards to the vast beaches and drama of the Ayrshire and Galloway coastlines.

Visiting these sites gives you an immersive brush with the Buccaneers universe. Beyond the series, the South of Scotland stars in a number of major films and TV series. You can even stay in some of the locations on your next holiday. Discover more with some of our blogs.

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