Larnach Castle & Gardens
Larnach Castle & Gardens
Larnach Castle & Gardens
4.5
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Discover New Zealand’s only Castle, built 1871 by William Larnach, merchant baron and politician, for his beloved first wife Eliza. It took more than 200 workmen three years to build the Castle shell and master European craftsmen spent a further 12 years embellishing the interior. Larnach spared no expense on his dream home, which features the finest materials from around the world.The Castle is still privately owned and cared for by the Barker family who purchased it as their home in 1967. Decades have been spent on the Castle's restoration, with the family having restored empty buildings from ruin and assembled a large collection of original New Zealand period furniture and antiques. Open to the public throughout, this conservation project has been funded through admission fees. The family has always been committed to opening their home and sharing this significant period of Dunedin and New Zealand's history.Scandalous and tragic stories, spectacular tower views and a Garden of International Significance complete this enjoyable award-winning experience. Boutique Lodge accommodation is available in the Castle gardens. Weddings, Balls, Conferences and Celebrations are held in the beautiful 3000 square foot Ballroom. High Tea is also now served daily in the Ballroom at 3pm
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- evets1232016Sydney, Australia464 contributionsHighlight of Dunedin visitWe spent a very enjoyable 3 hours here. We first visited here nearly 40 years, and the castle has been transformed since then. The fascinating history of the castle is well-documented, and most rooms have been fully restored to what they were in the 1800's. Add to that the magnificent gardens and views of the Otago peninsula and harbour, and it's a great day out. I didn't think the entry price was too bad for what was delivered. We had lunch in the ballroom cafe, which was OK, but not really a highlight of our visit. But overall, it's a "must do" of a visit to DunedinVisited February 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten February 14, 2024
- BootsiebanSidmouth, United Kingdom40 contributionsChoose your day of visit with caution!The castle and gardens are very interesting and there are some great views. Unfortunately we chose to go on a day when a cruise ship was in Dunedin and when we arrived at 9.45 there were already 5 tour buses there. Looking around the castle was not at all peaceful as every room was crowded. The cafe should get a mention as the home made venison pie was delicious.Visited February 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten February 25, 2024
- joday013Western Australia, Australia268 contributionsWell worth the drive.Visited the castle and gardens with the wife. We were lucky that is wasn't to busy, so didn't have to fight the cruise crowd. The staff were great with getting us in ahead of a tour bus. The castle is great and the gardens are kept immaculate. Well worth the trip. Just check to see how many cruise ships are in the harbour. The cafe did a great coffee and scone.Visited February 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten February 28, 2024
- AndyAquilaLyme Regis, United Kingdom650 contributionsInteresting place to visit and enjoyThis is a way out of the city centre but well worth the drive. The castle is very interesting, and the story behind it even more so. There are lovely grounds, although it was not a good day to see them when we visited. We had a cream tea as well and that was served in the ballroom and was very good. Note to UK readers - the cream provided for cream teas is seemingly never clotted cream in New Zealand and often (as in this case we think) straight out of a can!Visited February 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten March 4, 2024
- BigMerkGlasgow, United Kingdom2,704 contributionsGreat view into recent historyI visited here as part of a Cruise ship tour. It’s about 20 minutes driving from Dunedin and stands in impressive grounds with fantastic views out onto the sea. It’s not huge (like an ancient castle) but it’s much larger than a big house. We were met at the entrance by one of the tour guides who proceeded to guide us around various parts of the house explaining the background and the story of its original owners. All very interesting.Visited February 2024Traveled soloWritten March 4, 2024
- IcyAppleMosman, Australia183 contributionsStunning viewsStunning garden. Beautiful views. Even the drive up the hill to get to the location was stunning. The castle itself is interesting but if you don't have time you can skip it. I would like to stay on site one day. I didn't take any tours. I just drove there.Visited March 2024Traveled soloWritten March 21, 2024
- Fran H1 contributionA memorable and special experienceIt was probably one of the best dining out experiences I have ever had due to the combination of a number of factors including the atmosphere, location, dinner host, wait staff, food quality and fellow guests. Walking from the carpark to the castle, the lighting of the statues and castle creates a magical atmosphere and makes you feel like you are in for something special. Arriving at the castle door Jessica S greeted us so warmly and professionally, welcoming us in and taking coats. The bar set up with Matthew behind it naturally draws you further into the building then with drink in hand it was lovely to wander through the rooms before dinner. A round-the-circle group introduction of who we were and where we were from just before dinner created a more intimate situation so it did not feel so odd sitting at a long table with strangers, now we knew a bit about them. Through out the night Jessica shared stories and history of the people and place in short snippets so it didn’t feel like a history lesson, she is a gifted story teller. The food came out in perfect spacing and portion sizes that were not overwhelming – it felt like true fine dining. The short tour around the castle after the meal was a nice finishing touch, again enriched by Jessicas storytelling, and a warm and unrushed farewell at the end. All in all a very memorable and special experience.Visited April 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten May 29, 2024
- PepperKaz5Dunedin, New Zealand51 contributionsAlways as good as the last time.Did an overnight and dinner in the castle. Done this a few times now and it is always as good as the last. From the moment we were greeted at our accommodation to the end of the night. Stayed in the lodge. Lovely warm room on arrival. Trust the chef menu was superb. And our mini tour and chat with Jessica who was so knowledgeable just topped off our night. Our fellow dining guests were very friendly and fun. We will be back.Visited June 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 19, 2024
- Companion2129722261529 contributionsA beautifully restored Castle.We were very impressed by the restoration work being done at the castle today. It's so worth it! The wooden staircase, the sunny, airy verandah, the Ballroom (cafe) etc. A few of the bedrooms on the top floor were in the process of being restored, but there was plenty to see besides them. Also the gardens are gorgeous. We had beautiful weather and spent a couple of enjoyable hours viewing all of it.Visited August 2024Traveled with friendsWritten August 8, 2024
- Stephen Y K SHong Kong, China86 contributionsStay there at least one nightLarnach Castle, located in Dunedin on New Zealand's South Island, is the country's only castle, known for its Victorian and Gothic styles. Built by William Larnach in the 19th century, its surrounding gardens are internationally recognized as some of the most beautiful. The castle has a rich history, including family stories and various uses, such as a military fort. Visitors can join guided tours, enjoy dining services, and even stay overnight to experience the unique charm of this historic landmark.Visited August 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten September 7, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
3,081 reviews
Excellent
1,673
Very good
977
Average
309
Poor
83
Terrible
39
GusY
Chatswood, Australia47 contributions
Oct 2024 • Family
A short drive from Dunedin City is Larnach Castle, sitting atop south west of the city centre. At the time of our visit, the left side of the castle was undergoing renovations and was inaccessible. Entry was reduced to $30 per adult, and children entered for free. Unfortunately, it was raining the day we went, so we didn’t get to explore the beautifully manicured gardens. The castle has a rich history, with lovely period furnishings dating back to the late nineteenth century. The owners did their best to restore the castle, and they did a magnificent job reviving it for tourism. Despite the weather, we had a pleasant time learning about the history of William Larnach and his family, all the way to the present owners. It’s worth a visit when in Dunedin.
Written October 3, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Go15687789877
2 contributions
Oct 2024 • Couples
Two nights in The Stables. It’s lovely. The room rate includes a very generous cooked breakfast, and all the continental stuff - muesli, fruit, pretty much anything you might expect.
It’s 20 minutes from the city, but we think it was really worth it. It’s great feeling like a guest at the manor!
It’s 20 minutes from the city, but we think it was really worth it. It’s great feeling like a guest at the manor!
Written November 26, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
D and J
Perth, Australia55 contributions
Dec 2024 • Couples
The drive to Larnach Castle provides spectacular vistas over Dunedin and surrounds as does the view from the turret tower of this magnificent building. A guided tour is a must to learn the tale of this edifice and the family who built it. After your tour, enjoy a sumptuous Hi-Tea in the Grand Ballroom with several varieties of tea and yummy food. Now wander the Garden of International Significance and marvel at the marble bath flower pot as you search the grounds for all the featured characters from Alice in Wonderland! An excellent day out and a beautifully restored and maintained building – long may she stand!
Written December 22, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Go526401
Saint Simons Island, GA10 contributions
Dec 2023 • Couples
I knew that this was not going to be an actual castle… but more of an estate. Even so, I could not have been more disappointed with our experience. We arrived at 10:30 AM on a Friday when two buses also arrived. The staff gladly took our tickets and money, but the 150 people from the motor coaches took over the place.
The tour guides closed the doors on half of the rooms and would not allow us to enter. Even if we could’ve entered, we would’ve been jam packed in with 30 people in tiny rooms making it impossible to see anything. The rooms were small, rather dark and dingy, with only a few pieces of furnishings, artwork, etc.. if you have ever been to castles in Ireland, or Scotland, you will be disappointed in this, trust me— save your money! This was not impressive.
I spoke to a member of their staff about our experience, and she was not sympathetic. She just said our timing was unfortunate and suggested we go upstairs since the 150 bus people had re-boarded their buses. We were on a schedule & had to leave for a lunch reservation at the Glenfalloch Gardens Cafe & Restaurant (which I highly recommend— make a reservation!).
Anyhow, as we were leaving another loaded bus pulled up.
They clearly do not have a handle on how to manage admissions, which should be controlled, since the house is small.
She made no apologies, nor did she offer to credit back any of our admission fee. She simply casually said she’d talk with the tour leaders. It was evident they cared more about the big buses bringing in big money, over the casual visitor like my husband, daughter, and me.
The gardens were just slightly better.
The tour guides closed the doors on half of the rooms and would not allow us to enter. Even if we could’ve entered, we would’ve been jam packed in with 30 people in tiny rooms making it impossible to see anything. The rooms were small, rather dark and dingy, with only a few pieces of furnishings, artwork, etc.. if you have ever been to castles in Ireland, or Scotland, you will be disappointed in this, trust me— save your money! This was not impressive.
I spoke to a member of their staff about our experience, and she was not sympathetic. She just said our timing was unfortunate and suggested we go upstairs since the 150 bus people had re-boarded their buses. We were on a schedule & had to leave for a lunch reservation at the Glenfalloch Gardens Cafe & Restaurant (which I highly recommend— make a reservation!).
Anyhow, as we were leaving another loaded bus pulled up.
They clearly do not have a handle on how to manage admissions, which should be controlled, since the house is small.
She made no apologies, nor did she offer to credit back any of our admission fee. She simply casually said she’d talk with the tour leaders. It was evident they cared more about the big buses bringing in big money, over the casual visitor like my husband, daughter, and me.
The gardens were just slightly better.
Written December 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lmira1971
Perth, Australia202 contributions
Dec 2023 • Couples
Not worth the entry fee price to Gardens or castle. Cafe was nice but you have to pay $22 each to get into gardens. The drive up there on Highcliff road was scary but amazing views. Much better than the castle or Gardens which was free for the drive on this road around off Portobello drive. If you have been to Europe and seen real castles and their gardens miss this attraction. Great that it has been restored but so expensive for what you get. Pity you can't just go there for lunch or afternoon tea without paying exhorbant entry fees
Written December 6, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Seaside06120410971
1 contribution
Sep 2023 • Family
Beware of the hidden costs going to Larnach castle. You are charged $20 per person at the gate even if you just want to go to the cafe. So, for us who just wanted to experience a nice coffee at the cafe and had no interest in the gardens , it was going to cost $80 to park up and walk to the cafe. So give it a miss if you don’t want to pay a fortune. St Claire is a great alternative for a coffee right next to the sea.
Written September 28, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Seaside
The Cafe at Larnach Castle is a service we offer to our Castle & Garden visitors. The fee our guest's pay at the gate (which is well advertised) finances the ongoing restoration work at the Castle, I think I reiterated that serval times on the phone.
I believe you are local resident, I did try to explain to you we have a very generous offer for local resident's, pay once and all subsequent visits are free of charge for the next 12 months. This is called the "Loyal Local' pass.
I would also like to point out that talking to our team in an aggressive and bullying manner is not helpful; in fact it was incredibly upsetting to the staff members' concerned.
Written October 8, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Joe E
Biggleswade, UK71 contributions
Feb 2023 • Couples
On arrival, check-in was easy we were greeted with a warm and welcoming smile. Breakfast was included in our stay. Our room was excellent, with stunning views of the Otago peninsula. We stayed for 2 nights, so we pre-booked ‘Trust The Chef’ dining experience on our first night (4 course meal and a drink). The food was outstanding! (Nb: this has to be booked before 5pm the day you wish to dine. If you think you’re going to arrive after 5pm, drop them an email to book). As part of the dining experience, you got to meet other guests/travelers. We did eat in Dunedin on it 2nd night, but in hindsight would probably had dined again at the castle. Be warned, if you do decide to take a trip to Dunedin in the evening, the road to the castle is winding, so drive carefully. As part of our stay, we had complimentary entry into the castle and gardens. Worth doing. In summary, great location; comfortable room; amazing views; a little history, and a fantastic dining experience.
Written February 25, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jodie J
Brisabane27 contributions
Aug 2024 • Couples
We stayed at the castle for two nights. The staff were so helpful and friendly. Our room was perfect . A lovely layout with an amazing view . The breakfast was fresh , tasty and nice variety. We also did the dinner in the castle which was very enjoyable. The young lady who hosted the evening made it so entertaining. She was so funny, informative and made us all feel very relaxed . We had mixed age groups at dinner and everyone enjoyed it . The food was delicious. So well cooked . Nice portions . We were surprised by how much we enjoyed the evening.
Written September 30, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
lucy_1972Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand24 contributions
Jan 2022
I purchased the Larnach Castle grabone deal and it was an absolutely wonderful experience that I highly recommend to New Zealanders to experience. The history and building of the castle is very interesting, the workmanship in the castle is a must to be seen, the accommodation is lovely with the most amazing views out to the Otago Peninsula and the dinner in the castle was fantastic. The Barker Family have undertaken fantastic work restoring the castle for New Zealand. I advise NZ'rs to get in quick and experience the castle before overseas visitors return as I can imagine it must normally be very busy.
Written January 31, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jay
Christchurch, New Zealand5 contributions
Jan 2022 • Friends
Was given a grab one voucher for 1 x night stay in the Larnach Lodge which included a “trust the chef” dinner and a self guided tour of the castle.
Very disappointed with the food during dinner. At $85 per person, the portions were small and I’d expected more than meat and roast veges for dinner, and a lemon loaf for dessert. The staff were not attentive with refilling beverages or water. It was a unique experience dining in the castle with everyone seated at one long royal table but I would not recommend anyone to pay for the experience.
The castle itself is beautiful from the outside however the inside of the castle and surrounding gardens are nothing to rave about and I would have been disappointed if I paid to visit Larnach Castle.
However lovely gentleman working at the lodge was welcoming and friendly and the room was very homely and we enjoyed our stay in the lodge.
Very disappointed with the food during dinner. At $85 per person, the portions were small and I’d expected more than meat and roast veges for dinner, and a lemon loaf for dessert. The staff were not attentive with refilling beverages or water. It was a unique experience dining in the castle with everyone seated at one long royal table but I would not recommend anyone to pay for the experience.
The castle itself is beautiful from the outside however the inside of the castle and surrounding gardens are nothing to rave about and I would have been disappointed if I paid to visit Larnach Castle.
However lovely gentleman working at the lodge was welcoming and friendly and the room was very homely and we enjoyed our stay in the lodge.
Written January 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I'm visiting Dunedin for a week. I'm staying near the octagon and am on a bit of a budget so I'm preferring not to taxi. Are there any buses or affordable travel options that go from Dunedin city to Larnach Castle?
Written November 24, 2022
It depends on whether you enjoy exploring fantastic old buildings like the castle, and walking in lovely gardens. I'm in my 50s and loved our most recent experience, a high tea and garden tour, but I first visited Larnach Castle as a child, and have been there many times now. I probably enjoyed different things at different ages and stages of my life, but I've always enjoyed visiting. There are always people of all ages there!
Written November 14, 2022
Euh, 43 chambres ? C'est une erreur sans doute car il est bien petit, ce château.
Written January 12, 2020
Did you rent a car at the Port Chalmers Cruise Terminal, and from which company? Did you buy the castle tickets ahead of time? Thank you for your help! Linda
Written April 25, 2019
Hi. Is the cafe open on Christmas Day . I see I cannot book for high tea as the online booking does not allow. we will be there on Christmas Day 2017.
Written October 7, 2017
larnach2017
Dunedin, New Zealand
Hi Sunshine1
Thank you for your inquiry, yes our Cafe is open from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm on Christmas day. Its potentially going to be very busy so we have decided not serve High tea's that day. We will have Christmas themed options on the menu available through out the day. We wont be taking bookings but generally there is no problem getting a table.
Kind regards
Deborah Price
Written October 8, 2017
Hi I know this is probably an impossible question to answer but I was wondering how much time should I allow to visit the Castle and have a look at the Gardens, we only have 2 nights in Dunedin. TIA
Written July 12, 2017
45 minutes for the castle and the sane for the gardens would be ok but in my opinion nothing in Dunedin is better than this castle. Our best experience was to stay the night and have diner there.
Written July 15, 2017
Hi, we will have a cruise ship stop in Dunedin on 3 January . I would love to visit the Larnach Castle and Gardens, preferably on our own , not organised tour . please, suggest what is the best way from the port to castle ? Is the public transport or we need to take taxi? rental car ?
Many thanks, Rosalia
Written October 13, 2016
Taxi would be the best bet
Written November 26, 2016
Hello, Was the morning tea included in the tour price?
Best wishes, Gabriel
Written January 24, 2015
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