A historic country estate which served as the headquarters of the army in Scotland could be transformed into a new hotel and events venue under plans lodged in Edinburgh.
Proposals have been submitted to convert Category A-listed Craigiehall House, on the north-western edge of the capital, into a hotel as part of a wider refurbishment of the former military estate.
The listed building consent application includes extensions and internal and external alterations to the house, alongside the demolition of former store and garage buildings. A new events venue would also be created within Craigiehall’s historic walled garden, while the estate’s doocot would be restored.
Craigiehall House dates from the late 17th century and is one of the most significant historic buildings on the estate.
The house was completed around 1699 and is associated with celebrated Scottish architect Sir William Bruce. It was built for William, 2nd Earl of Annandale, and later became closely associated with the Hope-Weir family.
Craigiehall already has a connection with the hospitality industry. Historic Environment Scotland records that the house became a hotel and country club in 1933 before being requisitioned by the Army in 1939. The military subsequently bought the property in 1951.
The estate went on to become a military headquarters, with a collection of barracks and office buildings constructed around its historic core.
The estate includes the Category A-listed walled garden as well as listed stables, sundials, gate piers, a former operations building, doocot and other historic features.
The Ministry of Defence estate was acquired by Miller Developments and William Pears Group in 2024. At the time, plans included the refurbishment of 78 former MOD homes, while Miller Developments took responsibility for the redevelopment of the remaining 96 acres.
The latest application would now bring a significant hospitality use back to Craigiehall, with the hotel conversion accompanied by a dedicated events venue within the walled garden.
The plans are awaiting assessment by the council.