“When Shall We Three Meet Again?” Macbeth, Glamis & World Shakespeare Day

"The Witches of Macbeth" The New York Public Library Digital Collections. 1887.

On this World Shakespeare Day, we thought it fitting to open with the eerie first lines of the ‘Scottish Play’ - Macbeth.

In Angus, Glamis Castle, is long associated with William Shakespeare’s tragedy, inspiring the setting for Macbeth’s home. Yet the real King Macbeth (d. 1057) had no historical link to the castle. Shakespeare places King Duncan’s murder here, but in truth, Glamis only became a royal hunting lodge later and was granted to the Lyon family in 1372.

Today, Glamis Castle is famed not only for its rich history but also for its legends. Often described as a 'fright of ghosts', it is said to host at least nine spirits, including the Grey Lady, the Monster of Glamis, and Earl Beardie, cursed, so the tale goes, to play cards with the devil for eternity.

Glamis Castle and Gardens

Within the east woodland of the estate, visitors can follow the 'Macbeth Loop' sculpture trail, featuring seven chainsaw-carved wooden sculptures depicting key scenes from the play, from the Three Witches to Lady Macbeth and Macbeth himself.

The castle has welcomed many notable figures across the centuries, from Mary, Queen of Scots to James V.

The Scottish themes and the inclusion of witches are often said to have been intended to please King James VI and I. His 1597 treatise, 'Daemonologie', revealed his deep preoccupation with witchcraft and demonology.

More recently, it became beloved as the childhood home of HM Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. Her daughter, HRH Princess Margaret, was born at Glamis and spent many happy childhood visits here with her elder sister, HRH Princess Elizabeth.

If you’d like us to craft a bespoke tour to this awe‑inspiring and atmospheric castle, we’d be delighted to design something tailored to your interests. Just get in touch with us today and we'll be happy to help.