Ethie Castle

An exclusive-use stay at Ethie Castle invites up to 30 guests to immerse themselves in the rich heritage, character and quiet grandeur of this magnificent 14th-century fortress, regarded as one of Scotland’s longest continuously inhabited castles. Tucked away in Inverkeilor, near Arbroath in the heart of Angus, Ethie is a place steeped in history and intrigue. Its striking exterior, with distinctive chimneys, turrets and crow-stepped gables, gives way to interiors rich in period character.

Lost in the Magic of Time

Imagine waking on a misty morning to ethereal views across formal gardens, open fields and woodland. Inside, elegant chandeliers and an abundance of mirrors catch the light, illuminating beautifully panelled rooms filled with intriguing historical details and timeless charm. There is plenty to discover, from the intimate, atmospheric chapel to the secret staircase connecting two of the castle’s rooms.

Whether gathering for a special family celebration or escaping with friends for a memorable country retreat, Ethie Castle offers a wonderfully characterful setting in which to slow down and reconnect. The estate provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, while back inside, the historic billiard room offers a welcoming spot to gather around the warmth of an open fire as evening draws in. As the day fades and the surrounding countryside grows quiet, it is easy to feel transported to another time.

Characterful Spaces to Live In

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Great Hall

A grand and elegant gathering space, the great hall features an ornate plasterwork ceiling, a grand piano and long sash windows with shutters that flood the room with natural light. Intricate parquet flooring, gilded mirrored walls and a handsome fireplace complete this impressive historic interior.

Cardinal’s Sitting Room

Mink-coloured sofas, light wood panelling and rich red carpeting create a warm, elegant setting, complemented by gilt-framed armchairs, pale damask upholstery and an array of paintings.

Breakfast Room

Behind an ancient wooden door, this intimate room features sturdy wooden furniture and internal windows overlooking the adjoining dining room, perfect for leisurely breakfasts.

Dining Room

Rich red walls, a long wooden table, carved painted chairs and tall candelabras create a traditional setting for memorable shared meals, with fresh flowers adding a finishing touch.

Snooker Room

Decorated in deep red tones, this welcoming room offers a nostalgic setting for a sociable game of snooker.

Trophy Room

Exposed stonework, a substantial stone fireplace with a stove, mounted hunting trophies and leather Chesterfield seating give this room a distinctive country-house character.

Chapel

This intimate stone chapel, with its domed ceiling and two pews, is especially atmospheric by candlelight, offering a peaceful space steeped in history.

Thoughtful extras include a former gun room, now ideal as a private office or quiet retreat, and a small sauna, perfect for unwinding after a day exploring the estate and surrounding countryside.

Accommodation

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Ethie Castle features 14 individually designed bedroom suites, each named in honour of the property’s rich heritage and maritime connections. Traditional furnishings, distinctive architectural details and characterful en-suite bathrooms give each room its own personality, creating a collection of restful retreats within this historic home.

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Dining

Ethie Castle is available on either a fully-catered, or self-catered basis.

Fully Catered

Enjoy delicious seasonal dishes inspired by the region, prepared by the castle’s trusted caterers. Menus can be tailored to suit individual tastes and requirements.

Smaller groups may prefer the intimacy of the breakfast room, while the spacious dining room is ideal for larger gatherings around the table. The two rooms interconnect, offering welcome flexibility for multigenerational stays, particularly when adults and children would occasionally prefer to dine separately.

Self Catered

For self-catered stays, guests have use of the castle’s domestic kitchen and storerooms, making cooking together a wonderful way for family and friends to gather, share good food and make lasting memories. From leisurely breakfasts to relaxed, informal lunches and dinners, the adjoining breakfast room and dining room offer flexible spaces for every occasion.

The breakfast room can be used to serve meals before everyone gathers around the table in the grand dining room, creating a lovely setting for shared dining, conversation and time together.

Activities and Leisure

Ethie Castle offers a wonderful choice of activities, both on the estate and further afield, allowing guests to tailor their stay to suit their interests, whether they prefer traditional country pursuits, outdoor adventures or exploring Scotland’s rich cultural heritage.

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Gardens and Estate

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Timeless and inviting, the gardens and grounds at Ethie Castle are a delight to explore at a leisurely pace. Sweeping lawns and structured pathways wind through mature trees and carefully tended gardens, while occasional sculptures and the colourful plumage of the resident peacock add a touch of unexpected charm.

The changing seasons bring their own beauty, from the parkland trees to the flower-filled parterre gardens, where a stone fountain sits amid abundant planting and neatly clipped topiary. Formal elegance blends effortlessly with the tranquillity of the surrounding countryside.

Begin the day in the little orchard, where hens peck about, or spend a quiet afternoon in the charming conservatory, with its climbing plants and inviting seating,

History

Records of Ethie Castle date back to the early 13th century. Its position near Lunan Bay, with its gently sloping shoreline, has led to suggestions that the site may have been used by Vikings as a landing place, with a dwelling potentially preceding the castle that stands today.

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