Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New Zealand

Larnach Castle, Dunedin

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Last Updated on January 27, 2023 by Gia Kristel Algie

Billed as New Zealand’s only castle, Larnach Castle is a nice place to visit if you want to add some history into your Dunedin explorations. It’s one of the country’s nicest old buildings and is fun to explore – plus you’ll get some great views of the Otago Harbour from the gardens surrounding the castle.

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Larnach Castle

Larnach Castle, named (obviously) after its original owner, is located on the Otago Peninsula and holds commanding views over the peninsula and harbour. It was built between 1871 and 1874 (with more interior work added in the proceeding years) and was pretty lavish for this remote outpost. If you’ve visited castles in Europe, you might be slightly disappointed by Larnach Castle – it’s small and young by European standards – but for people who love history and interesting architecture it’s worth a visit.

Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New ZealandLarnach Castle, Dunedin, New Zealand

The Interior

The interior of Larnach Castle features heaps of rooms dressed up in the furnishing and decorations of the time. It doesn’t take too long to explore and there is always something interesting to look at, from the art on the walls to the many historic bits and pieces scattered throughout the place. The lower floor features a museum-like room where you can learn all about the castle and its eccentric former owner, William Larnach. There’s also a ballroom, which now doubles as a café, and, obviously, a gift shop.

A room in Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New ZealandA dining room in Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New Zealand

The Tower

One of the highlights of a trip to Larnach Castle is climbing the winding set of steps up to the tower, where you’ll get a good look at the surrounding scenery.

READ MORE: 30 Stunning Viewpoints in Dunedin

Otago harbour from the tower at Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New ZealandBeautiful view from Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New Zealand

The Gardens

One of the best things about a visit to Larnach Castle is exploring the grounds around the castle. There are some old ruined buildings to explore and a few different sections of garden. You can get some awesome views from several points and there are also some forested tracks to navigate. Make sure to seek out the small pavilion thing down the hill – it’s a popular photo spot for a reason!

READ MORE: The Ultimate Two Week New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Ruins at Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New ZealandA view from the gardens at Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New ZealandViews from Larnach Castle, Dunedin, New Zealand

Getting to Larnach Castle

Larnach Castle is located on Camp Road – drive up Highcliff Road and you’ll eventually see the sign pointing to the castle. The drive to Larnach Castle is scenic and there are a few places to pull over and see the views. You could also do the short walk up to the Soldier’s Memorial for panoramic views of the peninsula and harbour. You can also walk to Larnach Castle. The Camp Track, which starts in Broad Bay, takes you up the hill to the castle and features yet more stunning views.

Larnach Castle Tickets

A visit to Larnach Castle (both the gardens and interior of the castle) will set you back $39. If you’re on a strict budget it’s probably best to skip it and focus on all the free things to do in Dunedin (there are heaps!). We had a two for one voucher which made it pretty good value. You can also get an early bird special ($30) if you buy your ticket at the castle between 8.30 am and 9.30 am (1st October – 31st March).

Walk to Larnach Castle

Driving is the easiest way to reach Larnach Castle however if you are fancy a walk with beautiful Otago Harbour views then I highly recommend the Camp Road Track, which takes you Broad Bay (in the Otago Peninsula) to Larnach Castle. 

Did You Know? You Can Stay Near Larnach Castle

Larnach Castle manages Larnach Lodge & Stable Stay, located within the castle complex and the luxurious Camp Estate by Larnach Castle located within close proximity. Both of these accommodation options include free entry to Larnach Castle and its gardens. 

Other Things to Do on the Otago Peninsula

Nature lovers visiting Dunedin will want to head straight for the Otago Peninsula. There are heaps of great beaches, some impressive viewpoints, splashes of history and plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities. My favourite things to do on the Otago Peninsula include Sandfly Bay, the Sandymount Track, the Harbour Cone Track, the small harbourside towns of MacAndrew Bay and Portobello and Tairoa Head (where you may see albatross and penguins). For great views of the Peninsula from the other side of the harbour drive (or walk) up Mount Cargill or walk the first part of the Heyward Point Track. 

Are you visiting New Zealand? Check out our detailed South Island Travel Guide!

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Jon Algie

I'm a South Island local -- born in Timaru and raised in Dunedin. I left the island in 2006 and returned 10 years later. Having seen a good chunk of the world I realised how special this place is -- the most beautiful island in the world! Seven years (and almost 400 posts) later I'm still helping locals and tourists alike plan their trips around the South Island.
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