Our Experts Say:

Traquair Castle was originally owned by the kings of Scotland, then later became the home of the Earls of Traquair and is still lived in by their descendants, the Maxwell Stuart family. The on-site museum documents the extensive history, including a visit from Mary Queen of Scots. It is well known as the oldest inhabited home in Scotland, and is less than an hour from Edinburgh. See more

Our Experts Say:

Thirlestane Castle is set in the Border hills at Lauder. Built originally as a defensive fort in the 13th century, it was re-built in the 16th century as the home of the Maitland family, one of the most able and famous in Scotland. The five self-contained apartments within the castle sleep between 2 and 6 guests. They are spacious, individually styled and furnished, each with their own sitting room See more

Our Experts Say:

With an illustrious history dating back to the 1100s, Neidpath is an amazingly preserved Medieval stronghold with many stories to tell. Easy to reach from Edinburgh, but once you’re there, it’s even easier to forget the outside world. Perfect for a romantic getaway for two, in the castle you can join a guest list that includes Mary Queen of Scots. See more

Our Experts Say:

Cringletie House is a splendid Victorian baronial mansion, located just south of Edinburgh, and stands proud as the only AA Top 200 Hotel in the Scottish Border region. The hotel has 13 individually designed rooms, each one with its own unique character and furnished to a high standard with views over the grounds and local countryside. See more

Our Experts Say:

Barony Castle is a striking manor house built in 1536, with magnificent views of the Tweed Valley, offering a wide range of facilities for corporate and private groups alike. Standing proud in 25 acres of formal gardens and woodlands, it also offers a quiet & peaceful location. Situated in the Scottish Borders, it is a mere 40 minutes from the centre of Edinburgh, and just 5 minutes from the beautiful Borders town of Peebles, where fishing, walking, cycling and pony trekking are easily accessible. See more

Our Experts Say:

Dalhousie Castle Hotel, an enchanting 13th-century fortress just eight miles from Edinburgh, offers a secluded retreat, steeped in history. Renowned for having the longest family lineage of any Scottish castle, guests can choose from 29 individually designed bedrooms. Dining options include the award-winning Dungeon Restaurant with its dramatic ambiance. See more