

History of Castle Venlaw
The original house was built in 1782 by Alexander Stevenson, then Sheriff
Deputy of Peebleshire, on the site of the old Smithfield House. It stands
as an excellent example of Scottish Baronial style, set in four acres of quiet
wooded garden.
Over the years and the centuries, the building has grown and evolved in the
care of various owners. In 1948 the house was bought by Alexander Cumming
and his wife, Jean, with the intention of operating it as a hotel. At that
time there was a development tax levied on those turning private houses into
businesses. Mr Cumming successfully fought to have this abolished and Venlaw
Castle Hotel opened in 1949.
On Alexander’s death in 1972, his son, Alistair, took over his father’s
share of the business and operated the hotel with his mother and his wife,
Janet. The hotel was later sold to John and Shirley Sloggie, in 1997, who
renamed it Castle Venlaw Hotel.
As of 6 September 2007, the hotel is operated under a new owner, PAG Hotels
Ltd who will continue to offer a very friendly welcome to all guests.
International Customers:
+44 1422 323 200 If
you would prefer to talk to a member of the Celtic Castles team over the telephone,
call us on:
UK Customers:
01422 323 200