Dalhousie Castle

Dalhousie Castle has stood for more than 800 years and describes itself as Scotland’s oldest inhabited castle. It sits in eleven acres of private parkland and wooded valleys just outside Edinburgh, in Bonnyrigg. Once the seat of the Ramsay clan, it has hosted royalty and poets since the 13th century, and it has recently been through an extensive refurbishment.

Castle rooms and lodge rooms

The hotel has 35 en-suite bedrooms, each designed to reflect the castle’s history. Not all of them are inside the old walls, so choose with care. The castle itself offers Classic, Deluxe, Junior Suite, Four Poster and Suite rooms, plus two Castle Feature Rooms: one with a vaulted well and one with a balcony, described as the most authentic castle experience. A separate set of Lodge rooms, from Classic through to Suite, takes a more modern approach for those who want comfort without the stonework.

Dining

The Castle Dungeon Restaurant is the signature dining room. The Ramsay Restaurant offers a second option, and afternoon tea is also served. Private dining and function rooms are available too, and the castle is a popular wedding venue.

Getting here

Dalhousie lies just outside Edinburgh, so it works as a quiet base for the capital while keeping you in a countryside setting. Booking direct is the way the castle promotes its best rates and perks, and seasonal offers, including bed and breakfast breaks and multi-night stays with dinner, are published on its own site.

For the full castle experience, ask for one of the Castle Feature Rooms rather than a Lodge room.