Terms & Conditions for ticket purchases
These Terms & Conditions (“Terms”) apply to all ticket purchases for tours or events at Dumfries House. By purchasing a ticket, attending the site, or participating in an event, you agree to be bound by these Terms.
1. Definitions & Interpretation
“Dumfries House” refers to The King’s Foundation and its authorised representatives.
“Event” includes any tour, visit, activity, or function for which a ticket is purchased.
“Ticket Holder,” “Guest,” or “You” refers to any individual attending an event or tour.
“Organiser” refers to the individual or group making the booking.
Where examples are given (“including”, “such as”), they are illustrative only and do not limit the scope of the clause.
2. Contract Formation
A binding agreement is formed when:
• You purchase a ticket or receive written booking confirmation, and
• Dumfries House accepts your booking.
Your attendance at the event also signifies acceptance of these Terms.
3. Ticket Transfers, Amendments & Cancellations (by Customer)
Unless otherwise stated at the time of purchase:
• Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.
4. Cancellation or Alteration by Dumfries House
As Dumfries House is the headquarters of The King’s Foundation, operational requirements may change at short notice. Dumfries House may:
• Amend event content, timings, or access arrangements;
• Cancel or postpone an event;
• Offer a refund or alternative date where possible.
Dumfries House is not responsible for any costs incurred by guests, including travel, accommodation, or third-party expenses.
5. Liability for Damage
Dumfries House is not liable for the cost of repairs or damage caused by you, your guests, or any person acting on your behalf.
6. Personal Belongings
Dumfries House accepts no responsibility for the loss of, or damage to, personal items brought onto the premises. All items are brought on site at your own risk.
7. Artwork, Photography & Filming
The artwork displayed throughout many rooms of Dumfries House is on long-term loan from private collections.
Photography, video recording, and filming are strictly prohibited inside the house unless written permission is granted.
8. External Food & Beverage
No external food or drink may be brought onto the premises without prior written approval from Dumfries House.
9. Coach Parking & Timings
Coach parking arrangements must be discussed with the team in advance.
All timings must be confirmed one (1) week before the visit.
10. Visitor Access to the Estate
Guests are welcome to explore the estate before or after the tour, subject to estate operating hours and site access conditions.
11. Toilet Access
Due to security regulations, house toilets are available only 5 minutes before and 5 minutes after the tour.
External toilets are available at the Visitor Centre.
12. Allergen & Dietary Requirements
All allergen and dietary requirements must be provided three (3) weeks prior to the event.
Failure to supply this information may result in Dumfries House being unable to cater for certain guests.
13. Payment Methods
American Express (AMEX) payments are not accepted.
All other major card providers and BACs transfers are accepted.
14. CCTV Monitoring
CCTV is in operation throughout the estate and house for safety, security, and asset protection.
15. Children on Tours
Children are welcome, though the tour is not specifically designed for younger children.
Dumfries House reserves the right to ask disruptive children, and accompanying adults, to leave the tour.
16. Cloakroom & Stored Items
A small cloakroom area is available. Guests are asked to avoid large rucksacks or bags.
All stored items are left entirely at the owner’s risk.
17. Code of Conduct
Guests must:
• Act respectfully toward staff, other visitors, and property;
• Follow staff instructions at all times;
• Refrain from disruptive, abusive, unsafe, or intoxicated behaviour.
Failure to comply may result in removal from the event or estate without refund.
18. Right to Remove Guests
Dumfries House reserves the right to refuse admission or require any guest to leave where it is deemed reasonable—for example, due to safety concerns, disruptive behaviour, or breach of these Terms.
19. Accessibility
Guests with accessibility requirements are encouraged to contact Dumfries House in advance so appropriate arrangements can be discussed where possible.
20. Health & Safety
Guests must comply with all health and safety instructions, emergency procedures, signage, and security requirements.
Tampering with security equipment or restricted areas is strictly prohibited.
21. Force Majeure
Dumfries House is not liable for failure to deliver an event due to circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to:
• Severe weather;
• Government regulation;
• Industrial disputes;
• Power failure;
• Acts of God.
Where feasible, alternative arrangements may be offered.
22. Privacy & Data Protection
Personal data collected during ticket purchasing or event attendance is processed in accordance with applicable data protection laws and our Privacy Policy.
23. Governing Law & Jurisdiction
These Terms are governed by the laws of Scotland.
Any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Scottish courts.
24. Severability
If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
25. Alcohol and Licensing Laws
In line with Scottish Licensing Laws, any drinks brought onto the premises by you or your guests will be confiscated.
Dumfries House reserves the right to refuse alcohol service to any attendee.