One of Scotland’s oldest inhabited castles, Dalhousie Castle has reopened following a major £6 million refurbishment.
The historic landmark now offers transformed guestrooms, a hidden single-cask whisky library and distinctive dining spaces.
Set within the Scottish countryside and dating back to the 13th century, Dalhousie Castle has been carefully restored, offering luxury, while retaining the character and historic features of the castle itself.
The hotel has unveiled 35 individually decorated guestrooms, each embracing the unique architecture while offering guests beautiful, warm interiors and serene en-suite bathrooms. Rooms have retained original stone walls and feature private balconies, arched ceilings and striking high-set windows with captivating views across the castle estate and surrounding woodland.
While the Castle Feature Room offers a special castle stay, with a vaulted well, a separate living area and historically themed interiors, where guests can relax and unwind.
At the heart of the castle are the restored dining and drinking spaces, which pay tribute to the Ramsay family, who held Dalhousie Castle in their family for hundreds of years. Among them is The Alexander Bar, named after Sir Alexander de Ramsay, the notable 14th-century Scottish knight who withstood a six-month siege at the castle by King Henry IV of England.
The Ramsay Restaurant, housed in the castle’s former ballroom, celebrates Scotland’s natural larder with an elevated menu of premium grilled meats, seafood and seasonal produce. Hidden behind a secret bookshelf lies a single-cask whisky library, Chapters, home to one of Scotland’s only collections of its kind.
Beneath the castle, the candlelit Dungeon Restaurant- awarded 2 AA Rosettes - has introduced a new eight-course fine dining tasting menu, with each course reflecting a different centry in Dalhousie’s past whilst showcasing exceptional local ingredients.
Beyond the castle itself, guests can immerse themselves in the surrounding castle grounds through falconry and archery. Located just eight miles from Edinburgh city centre, Dalhousie Castle offers the seclusion of a historic estate within easy reach of the capital.
Philip Egan, General Manager of Dalhousie Castle, said: “Dalhousie Castle has more than 800 years of history and character, and it was incredibly important to us that this transformation respected and preserved what makes the castle so special. Our ambition was never to change its identity, but to celebrate it while creating a truly luxurious experience for today’s guest.
“From the original stonework and historic architecture to the character found throughout the castle, we wanted guests to feel that sense of history from the moment they arrive, while enjoying the exceptional comfort, quality and attention to detail expected of a luxury hotel. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve created – a new chapter for Dalhousie that feels every bit as special as its past.”
Dalhousie Castle was originally built and owned by the Ramsay Clan and has played host to some of the most significant figures and moments in Scottish history. Royal connections included Edward I of England and Mary, Queen of Scots, while the castle stood witness to the Wars of Independence, including the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, and the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath in 1320. It was later besieged for six months by King Henry IV of England, while Oliver Cromwell used Dalhousie Castle as a base during his military campaign in Scotland.
The renovation began in October 2024, with local craftspeople and suppliers helping to sensitively restore the castle.