Lauriston Castle, Edinburgh

Hidden towards the village of Cramond and just three miles from the heart of the city centre, there’s a secret waiting to be discovered in Edinburgh. Here you’ll find the picturesque Lauriston Castle, surrounded by rolling views across the water. You’ll even see the mountains of Perthshire on a clear day.

Although named a Castle, due to no royalty having ever stayed, nor battle taken place here – Lauriston Castle is more just a name sake. It’s a tower house and villa, perfectly preserved in time from when it’s latest owners, Mr and Mrs Reid, died and left the estate to the city of Edinburgh.

Exploring the Grounds & Gardens

A keen gardener, Mrs Reid thrived in the gardens and grounds surrounding Lauriston Castle, something still evident today. From walking through the rose garden and peer into the glasshouse, to the Japanese friendship garden in the centre of the grounds.

From the top of the house you’ll see across to the village and island of Cramond just further along the coast. With snowdrops scattered along the ground just coming into bloom, they hint that spring is well and truly just around the corner.

How to Reach Lauriston Castle

Only three miles from the city centre, Lauriston Castle is a short 15 minute drive, or you can take the number 41 bus towards Cramond which is around 30 minutes from Princes Street. Remember all public transport in Edinburgh on a Lothian service is £1.70 single (March 2018) – so you’ve no excuse not to visit!

Once you’ve arrived there’s a slightly incline up the winding drive towards the castle. You’ll need to park your car at the bottom and walk up, or the bus stop is just outside the base of the driveway on the main road. Entry to the castle is £5 per person, which includes a 40 minute guided tour. Tours take place at 2pm Monday – Wednesday and 2pm and 3pm on weekends.

The grounds are free to access all year round and there are often family events taking place here you’re able to join in with. Everything from a summers tea party to them magic festival and more. There’s also a lovely little cafe connected to the castle serving the likes of fresh scones and hot drinks.

Quintessentially Edwardian Interiors

Step back in time into their quintessentially Edwardian home and feel what it was really like to live as the wealthy middle class did in the 1920s. Draped in ornate furnishings, marble fireplaces throughout and lavish cabinets, it’s easy to find yourself wrapped up in imagining being a guest here. If you want to live the dream yourself, you can even stay at Lauriston Castle for the night and enjoy one of it’s many guest bedrooms. It’s said that Mr and Mrs Reid loved a party and any excuse for a glass of champagne, so why not join the party!

ou can read more about Lauriston Castle and other attractions on the Museums and Galleries Edinburgh website. Will you be making a visit?

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