Ferniehirst Castle
Jedburgh, Scotland
Exclusive Use
You can have the venue to yourself, sleeps 18 guests in 9 rooms.
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Steeped in dramatic history, this 15th-century ancestral seat of the Clan Kerr is set amidst captivating forests and lush lawns in the scenic Jed Valley, overlooking the River Jed. Conveniently located close to the Scottish Borders, the beloved home to the Kerr Family offers a unique setting for a self-catered, exclusive group stay, celebratory dinners and intimate events.
A timeless elegance
Known affectionately as ‘Scotland’s frontier fortress,’ Ferniehirst is one of the best-preserved examples of the prestigious mansions built by wealthy Border lairds in the late 16th century. Its ambient interiors complement the stoic medieval architecture and characterful features, blending Scottish heritage with elegant Victorian style.
You will enjoy exclusive access to the castle and gardens. With space to host up to 18 guests across the castle and the adjoining Lothian Wing, the romantic castle is equipped with modern-day comforts to offer a warm and cosy retreat. Discover fascinating heritage stories on Ferniehirst’s guided tour, tickle the ivories on the grand piano over pre-dinner drinks and enjoy a mix of contemporary and traditional gourmet cuisine.
The Grand Hall
The heart of the castle, this timeless space is filled with history. Admire the grand ornate fireplace and the portraits of King James VI and the Kerr Family that grace the stone walls. The locally crafted oak furniture, unique scallop-decorated corbel course and giant standing candelabras add atmosphere and charm to this inviting room.
The Gallery
The stunning wood-panelled gallery overlooks the spacious stone-well staircase, the walls of which display bold artwork and crockery, which ascends to the Outer Hall and Grand Hall on the first floor.
The Turret Library
Situated in a small circular apartment in the Southeast Tower, this enchanting castle library features a unique collection of books and family history curiosities, delightfully lined along the curved shelving. With three recessed windows and a diameter of just seven-feet six inches, it offers one of the castle's most private settings.
The Hall
The Outer Hall features a historic frieze with ten panels, hand painted by local artist David Wilkinson in 1987. The patterned rug over a rich wooden floor, occasional furniture and high and ancient alcove or arched doorways create a warm, inviting atmosphere and encourage guests to explore.
The Kitchen
Thought to have once been the Laird’s private bedchamber, the enchanting Inner Chamber was beautifully transformed into a delightful kitchen during the 1984-1987 refurbishment. The bright décor, characterful hanging pot rack above the central island and attractive AGA perfectly blend history and modern comfort, offering a unique space to cook and unwind.
Turret Sitting Room
This intimate room is ideal for relaxation, featuring comfortable sofas, a deep window seat adjacent to a cosy log burner set against a fresh white backdrop of wood-panneling and ceiling beams.
Vaulted Cellar Rooms
Beneath Ferniehirst Castle are five vaulted cellar rooms, each serving a distinct use, comprising:
- The Clan Kerr Family History Room
- The Kerr Family Chapel
- Utility/Storage Room
- Boot Room
- Gun Room
Accessibility
To access Ferniehirst Castle itself, guests must climb one flight of stairs and there are an additional six flights inside the property (there is no elevator available.
Accommodation
Ferniehirst Castle is brimming with charm and a rich history, perfectly balancing grandeur and warmth, which is apparent across its suite of bedrooms. A total of 18 guests can stay at Ferniehirst Castle. There are six double bedrooms in the castle with two double rooms and one twin room in the adjoining Lothian Wing.
Each of the castle bedrooms has been tastefully decorated and offers unique charm, with enchanting views out onto the estate. Seven of the double beds can be unzipped into two single beds. There are seven bathrooms, two of which are ensuite.
Bedroom 1 - Twin or double - A charming and well-appointed bedroom featuring a revealed local stone fireplace, with a private bathroom.
Bedroom 2 - Twin or double - An inviting and snug bedroom, with ample natural light streaming through the windows.
Bedroom 3 - Twin or double - Adorned in butter yellow with pale blue accents, this shares a bathroom with Bedroom 2.
Lady Ralph's Bedroom - Double ensuite - A spacious retreat with magnificent views of the grounds and courtyard.
Lord Ralph's Bedroom - Twin or double - A light and airy bedroom with its own private bathroom just outside the door.
Turret Bedroom - Double ensuite - A romantic, fairy-tale experience with two separate turret rooms.
Lothian Wing
Master Bedroom - Double - Shares bathroom with Bedroom 2
Bedroom 2 - Twin Room - Shares bathroom with Master
Upper Bedroom - Double - With own bathroom
Additional accommodation for up to six guests is available in this self-catered ground floor wing, which features an additional kitchen, dining room and sitting room, along with French doors which open out onto a patio and the landscaped gardens beyond.
Activities/Leisure
Just steps from the castle, the estate offers a peaceful riverside walk through woodlands by the Jed Water. Climb to the viewing point for stunning views or relax by the river. Guests are welcome to make use of the tennis courts in the grounds.
Gardens/Estate
Ferniehirst Castle Estate in the Scottish Borders is surrounded by beautiful gardens and expansive grounds. The estate features a mix of formal and natural landscapes, with meticulously maintained gardens offering a range of seasonal colours. The grounds include woodlands, rolling lawns and scenic views of the surrounding countryside, ideal for walks.
History
When the first Kerrs settled in the valley of the Jed Water in the late 13th century, the land surrounding Jedburgh was thickly wooded with great oak trees. Over the next three centuries, the Kerrs played a strategic game and, from the 14th century to the present day, Ferniehirst Castle has remained in the possession of the family.
Prices
Ferniehirst Castle is available for exclusive-use, self-catered stays with a minimum booking of two nights, starting at £2,300 per night, based on 18 guests. Optional catering services can be arranged for some or all of your stay, with pricing based on your specific needs.
Location
Nestled two miles south of Jedburgh in the scenic Scottish Borders, Ferniehirst Castle Estate is located near the town of Jedburgh, about 10 miles north of the English border.
The estate is easily accessible by road via the A68, offering convenient travel connections to Edinburgh to the north and Carlisle to the south. Edinburgh Airport is approximately 50 miles away.
The castle’s central location makes Ferniehirst a scenic and accessible destination for those exploring the beauty of southern Scotland, as well as the broader Borders region.