Discover Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only Castle. Experience the beautiful grounds and explore the historic house. Find out how to get to Larnach Castle.
Larnach Castle and the formal garden in front of the restaurant

Larnach Castle

Built between 1871 and 1886 for local businessman and politician William Larnach, this unique manor house could only be found in Dunedin. The house's Scottish Baronial style is juxtaposed with large ornate verandahs skirting its stone walls, a very colonial touch. Bought by the Barker family in 1967, the homestead and its surrounding gardens have been lovingly restored and opened to the public. Its striking peninsula location, beautiful architecture and famous gardens make Larnach Castle one of Dunedin's premiere attractions.


Carvings at the front door of Larnach Castle

The Castle

Sometimes known as Larnach's Castle, construction began in 1871 and took three years and over 200 workmen to complete. The interior was crafted by masters from Europe, who spent 12 years carving and embellishing its 43 rooms with the finest materials from around the world; Italian marble, glass from Venice and France, Welsh slate for the roof, and floor tiles from England. The house was finished with richly coloured native New Zealand woods, and is today the house is decorated with a large collection of antique New Zealand furniture.


Larnach Castle Grounds

The Gardens

The gardens are the creation of owner Margaret Barker, a collection of eight theme gardens ranging from primitive native rainforest to period-style formal gardens that showcase both native and exotic plants. The South Seas Garden, planted with some of New Zealand's most unique fauna from its coasts and off-shore Islands, has spectacular views over the Otago Peninsula and across the Harbour; from Port Chalmers all the way out to Taiaroa Head. The various gardens come into their own in different seasons, so there's something new to discover all year round.



Fern and Verandah Summer flowers at Larnach Castle South Seas Garden view over the Otago Peninsula

How to get to Larnach Castle

Many tours around the Otago Peninsula include a visit to Larnach Castle. Both guided and self-guided tours are also available, with admission on entry. Below are directions to get to Larnach Castle from Dunedin’s city centre, The Octagon:




Featured Larnach Castle Tours & Activities

Dunedin City, Wildlife and Scenery Tour

Dunedin City, Wildlife and Scenery Tour

Maori - - Starting from $119.00 per person

Explore spectacular Dunedin city and Otago Peninsula on this full-day small group tour (6 people Max). Visit Baldwin St (steepest street in the world), the University of Otago and Dunedin’s famous Scottish heritage sites. Then we will travel alongside the picturesque Otago harbour and head across to Sandfly Bay to spot local wildlife. Lunch is taken at the beautiful and historic Larnach Castle. We then journey to the rugged coastline and a visit to unique Tunnel Beach. More...

Larnach Castle & Gardens Tour from Dunedin

Larnach Castle & Gardens Tour from Dunedin

Castle - Dunedin - Starting from $70.00 per person

Explore New Zealand`s only castle with Headfirst Travel

You will be picked-up at the Dunedin i-Site (50 The Octagon) at 10am (Summer), 2pm (Summer Only) or 9am Winter. Please note that pick up from Port Chalmers is not included. Enjoy a 30 minute scenic drive to Larnach Castle where a 45 minute Guided tour of the castle itself is included in your tour. After your guided tour of Larnach Castle enjoy 45 minutes of free time to relax in their cafe or explore the beautiful grounds. A 1... More...


Dunedin Onshore Cruise Group Tour

Dunedin Onshore Cruise Group Tour

Maori - Dunedin - Starting from $145.00 per person

Dunedin Onshore Cruise Tours for your small group of up to six or 11. Heritage and Wildlife abounds and enjoy a personal and fun tour with you local chauffeur/guide. 

Dunedin welcomes you to the delightful Port Chalmers and  the  many unique aspects on your special day tour. 
Whatever your interests surround yourself with the Scottish feel of this region.

Your Chauffeur will take you on a historical journey of beautiful landscapes, stunning Port Chalmers high top views and... More...


Dunedin City and Otago Peninsula Small-Group Tour

Dunedin City and Otago Peninsula Small-Group Tour

Day Tour - Dunedin - Starting from $185.00 per person

Enjoy a full-day tour experiencing lovely Dunedin City and the Otago Peninsula. You will see all the city highlights before journeying along the Otago Peninsula, which is full of wildlife and the majestic Larnach Castle. Included in the price is a tour at Penguin Place, the wild habitat of the rare yellow-eyed penguins. Your knowledgeable local guide has many stories of the area and knows all the best spots and vantage points along the way. There is plenty of time to chat and enjoy the... More...

Shore Excursion: Dunedin Highlights Small-Group Tour

Shore Excursion: Dunedin Highlights Small-Group Tour

Ports of Call Tour - Dunedin - Starting from $110.00 per person

Make the most of your time on this half-day "Highlights" small group, personal tour. You will see and learn about Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula with your own guide, including entry to the grounds of historic Larnach Castle. More...


Arts Content Harbour ViewArts Content Harbour View - Apartment.

This property is 18 minutes walk from the beach. Arts Content Harbour View, Otago Peninsula, offers self-contained...

Castle and Wildlife Cruise - Half DayCastle and Wildlife Cruise - Half Day - Sightseeing Cruise - Dunedin. Starting from NZ $125.00 per person.

Enjoy a fully guided tour of New Zealand's only castle, followed by a Wildlife cruise with Monarch Wildlife Cruises.

 

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