Blair Castle, the historic seat of Clan Murray, is now open for the 2025 season. Since reopening on 1 April, the Castle has welcomed visitors to its latest interactive exhibition, ‘Life Below Stairs’, as well as a host of seasonal experiences including spring and summer foraging events across the estate, led by expert forager Tamara Colchester. This May also sees the return of the Atholl Highlanders Parade and Atholl Gathering, celebrating the legacy of the UK’s only private army.
At the heart of this year’s experience is ‘Life Below Stairs’, an immersive exhibition staged in the Castle’s special exhibition room. Perfect for families, history enthusiasts, and fans of shows like Downton Abbey, it lifts the curtain on the lives of the 25 servants who maintained Blair Castle throughout the 19th century during the Duke of Atholl’s residency.
Visitors can peer into the Secret Cellar, where bottles of Scotland’s oldest whisky were discovered, ring the original butler’s bell box, and see a functioning dumb waiter once used to carry meals, linens, and more across the Castle’s many rooms. The Cabinet of Curiosities displays everyday dining and kitchen items, both from casual meals and formal banquets with the Duke and his family. Recreated staff uniforms, including those of the housekeeper and the 6th Duke’s valet, are on display, and visitors can glimpse the servants’ staircase, see a housemaid returning to her quarters, and watch the luggage lift in action.
Jess Reid, Marketing Manager for Atholl Estates Said, “We’ve been thrilled by the response since reopening on 1 April. Our new ‘Life Below Stairs’ exhibition is one of the most interactive we’ve ever staged. TV shows like Downton Abbey have shown how curious people are about the lives of those who worked behind the scenes in historic homes. This exhibition captures that spirit and tells those stories in a really compelling way.”
Additional summer highlights include an evening of Rossini and Schubert performed by the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, and a full calendar of children’s activities including storytelling, crafts, and hands-on experiences.
Further information and tickets for all events are available at atholl-estates.co.uk.
