Conquering Historic Fortresses: A Guide to Staying in Castles Near Edinburgh

• Carlowrie Castle: The only B Corp certified castle in the world, this exclusive-use venue has 32 acres of gardens and parkland for you to explore during your stay. The Victorian castle with modern amenities includes 21 bedrooms and hosts up to 40 guests. Not to mention the adorable highland cows that live on the grounds.

• Dalhousie Castle: Scotland’s oldest inhabited castle, just eight miles south of Edinburgh, is a 13th-century fortress that offers luxury accommodations and a spa. Previous guests include King Edward I, Sir Walter Scott, Oliver Cromwell and Queen Victoria, and during your visit, you too will be treated like royalty.

• Melville Castle: Situated about six miles south of Edinburgh, Melville Castle is a beautiful 18th-century castle with modern amenities. Nearby offerings include several beautiful golf courses and Gilmerton Cove caverns. Take a lovely afternoon stroll and search for Queen Mary’s five oak trees in the castle’s grounds.

• Carberry Tower Mansion House: Whether you’re taking a romantic getaway or a family trip, Carberry Tower Mansion House offers newly upgraded rooms on 40 acres of beautiful grounds. Day trips nearby include coves and beaches, shopping at Restoration Yard, and the National Museum of Flight.

• Borthwick Castle: About 30 minutes southeast of Edinburgh, Borthwick Castle dates back to the 15th century and offers a luxurious stay. You can rent all twelve rooms for private hire, weddings or corporate events. Discover the history involving Mary, Queen of Scots and Oliver Cromwell that this magnificent castle has to offer.

• Fenton Tower: Located about 20 miles east of Edinburgh, Fenton Tower is a 16th-century tower house that provides exclusive accommodation. Holding itself to high standards, this castle generates 50 percent of its electricity on site, and offers charging stations for electric vehicles. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, you can fly fish on the nearby rivers, or walk the John Muir Way.

• Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club: Although not a traditional castle, this 18th-century manor house has castle-like features and is situated seven miles west of Edinburgh. Two 18-hole golf courses, two restaurants and bars, a leisure center with gym, and indoor swimming pool offers something for everyone in the family. With over 215 rooms and suites, this is an excellent way to enjoy the Scottish countryside.

• Oxenfoord Castle: About 12 miles southeast of Edinburgh, Oxenfoord Castle is a stunning 18th-century castle available for exclusive hire. Typically used for weddings or events, you can ask for the Cranstoun Riddel house for up to 12 guests. The grounds, church and castle offer a fairytale setting for any vacation.

• Gilmerton House: Located about 20 miles east of Edinburgh, Gilmerton House is a Georgian mansion that offers a castle-like experience with luxurious accommodations. The staff are happy to help you plan local activities such as coastal walks, whisky tastings and clay pigeon shooting. A private chef and butler service can also be arranged.

• Cornhill Castle: An hour’s drive outside Edinburgh, nestled by the banks of the River Clyde, visit this castle for an idyllic stay in the Biggar countryside. Stay in a castle room or honeymoon suite, or have a newly opened private lodge with a hot tub to yourself. With an onsite restaurant and bar, you can just relax and enjoy yourselves at this location.

Carlowrie Castle

• Carlowrie Castle offers a bespoke dining experience tailored to guests' preferences. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, meals are often prepared by private chefs. The dining experience is enhanced by the elegant and historic surroundings, providing a unique and luxurious setting for any meal.

Dalhousie Castle

• The Dungeon Restaurant: Located in the atmospheric dungeon of the castle, this fine dining restaurant offers a unique and intimate setting with a focus on Scottish cuisine.

• The Orangery: A more casual dining option with stunning views of the castle grounds, serving a variety of dishes throughout the day.

Melville Castle

• Brasserie Restaurant: Located within the castle, this restaurant provides a relaxed dining experience with a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and classic Scottish dishes.

Carberry Tower Mansion House

• The Campaign Room Bistro: This bistro offers a selection of dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, served in a stylish and welcoming environment.

Borthwick Castle

• The Great Hall: While Borthwick Castle is primarily used for private events, guests can enjoy a dining experience in the historic Great Hall, where menus are tailored to the occasion and focus on seasonal, local produce.

Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club

• The Pentland Restaurant: This restaurant offers panoramic views of the hotel’s golf courses and the countryside, serving a menu of contemporary Scottish cuisine.

• The Brasserie: A more casual dining option, offering a variety of dishes throughout the day in a relaxed setting.

Cornhill Castle

• The Gallerie Restaurant: Cornhill Castle features The Gallerie Restaurant, which offers a fine dining experience with an emphasis on contemporary Scottish cuisine. The restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients to create seasonal menus, served in a sophisticated and charming environment that reflects the castle’s grandeur.