DESCRIBED as one of the best kept 16th century houses in Scotland, Earlshall Castle nestles in 34 acres of its own grounds near the village of Leuchars.
Believed to have taken its name from the site of the hunting lodge of 'The Erlishall' owned by the ancient Earls of Fife, the first recorded mention of Earshall was in 1495 when Sir Alexander Bruce was granted the lands and barony.
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Tradition holds that the castle hosted Mary Queen of Scots in 1561, while James VI of Scotland also visited.
Extensively restored in the late 19th century to be a liveable home while maintaining its unique character, the castle boasts a Great Hall, gun room and library.
A highlight of the property is the Long Gallery which has a famous painted ceiling. Running the full length of the 50 foot long roof are the coat of armss of the main noble families of Scotland, as well as those of European royalty, as well as totally imaginary nobles such as David, King of Jerusalem, Hector, Prince of Troy and King Arthur.
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Situated in the courtyard opposite the castle is a secondary building believed to pre-date the main structure.
The 'Dummy Daws', as it is called, is home to a billiards room and second floor bedroom, while other buildings on the estate include a gate house, a five-car garage, dowry house, kennels and cottage.
The price of Earshall Castle is available on application.
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