Dalhousie Castle

Situated on a secluded woodland estate that changes dramatically with the seasons, this ancient fortress is just eight miles from Edinburgh, but a million miles away from your everyday world. The 13th-century castle has seen triumph and tragedy and is famed for having the longest family line in Scottish castle history!

Its eclectic architectural aesthetic will capture your imagination from the start and its atmospheric interiors will have you exploring every intriguing nook and cranny. From deeply hued walls to giant oak doors, storytelling tapestries to ornate gold-leaf ceilings, Dalhousie’s past will come alive before your eyes. Take a trip to the ‘bottle dungeon’ – nowadays the wine cellar - where prisoners were lowered by rope (you can still see the rope marks worn into the stonework!) and discover the secret bar hidden behind a moving bookcase.

Accommodation

Dalhousie Castle has 29 characterful en-suite bedrooms, each one reached by a maze of staircases and secret passages. The bedroom types vary, although each is spacious and luxuriously decorated with rich Scottish fabrics and period furniture.

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In each individually-designed room you will find Egyptian cotton bed linen, fluffy towels and robes, slippers and Temple Spa toiletries. All rooms are equipped with a flat screen digital TV, direct-dial telephone, iron and ironing board, hairdryer and tea and coffee-making facilities.

Dining

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The Dungeon Restaurant, named for its location underneath the building, features exposed stone walls culminating in a barrel-vaulted ceiling with deep-set arches housing shiny suits of armour. Its grey-slate floor lies beneath regal-red chairs and white tablecloths giving it a truly dramatic ambience. This award-winning restaurant’s contemporary spin on seasonal Scottish cuisine cooked in a classic French style is a unique fine dining experience. A more relaxed offering is served in the Orangery Restaurant whose menus encapsulate a small but varied mix of firm favourites.

Falconry and Archery

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The castle falconry, set within the grounds of the estate, houses an impressive selection of birds, including hawks, owls, falcons and eagles. You can also try your hand at the Medieval sport of archery under the guidance of experienced archery leaders and using traditionally crafted recurve bows with a variety of targets. Sessions for both are suitable for all ages and available to book individually or as part of a group prior to your stay.

Activities

The eleven-acre grounds offer a wealth of adventure on your doorstep. There are three suggested walks that showcase the best of the estate’s sights and surroundings, including ancient bridges and burial grounds at the ruins of Cockpen Old Church, enchanting wildlife and woodland, a carriageway and peaceful riverside. Edinburgh is within easy reach of the castle and offers a wealth of activities to enjoy...

History

The Ramsays of Dalhousie have played a fascinating role in the long and tangled history of their beloved Scotland – and they managed to keep possession of Dalhousie longer than any other family held onto a Scottish castle.