The castle was abandoned for over 40 years in the 19th century before being rescued by the Lorimer family in 1878.
The ornate plaster ceilings in the drawing room are considered some of the finest examples of late 16th-century Scottish craftsmanship.
Many of the interior furnishings were designed by Sir Robert Lorimer, a prominent figure in the Arts and Crafts movement.
The walled garden features a unique layout influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement, focusing on structure and seasonal colour.
The original 14th-century keep forms the base of the current structure, with a secondary tower added in 1573.
Kellie Castle is a 14th-century tower house featuring extensive 17th-century additions and a preserved Victorian-era interior. It is renowned for its elaborate plasterwork ceilings, which date back to the late 16th and early 17th centuries. The estate includes an organic walled garden designed by the Lorimer family, noted for its herbaceous borders and fruit trees. The house served as the primary residence of the Lorimer family, particularly architect Sir Robert Lorimer, who restored the building in the late 1800s. Visitors can view the original painted panels and a collection of fine furniture curated during the Lorimer residency. The grounds encompass 26 acres of woodland walks and parkland. The site is currently managed by the National Trust for Scotland.
The central lawn within the walled garden, providing a framed view of the castle exterior and flower borders.
Explore the upper floors first, as they contain the most intricate plasterwork and painted features.
Allow extra time to walk the perimeter of the walled garden, as the plant species vary significantly by season.
Check for any special guided house tours, as access to specific rooms can vary based on conservation efforts.
Do not overlook the woodland walks, which are often missed by visitors focused solely on the house interior.
Operates on a seasonal basis, typically closing during winter months; check for mid-week closures during shoulder seasons.
Avoid touching the historic plasterwork and painted surfaces. Standard indoor conservation rules apply regarding bags and photography inside the house.
