Aikwood Tower

• Sleeps: 10
• Bedrooms: 5
• Minimum stay: 2 nights

Originally built in the 1540s and infused with endless stories of centuries past, you can rest assured that a break spent at Aikwood Tower will be characterfully unique. So why not surround yourself with natural style and opulence as you recharge your batteries in the fresh, understated luxury of the Scottish Borders – you deserve it!

The imposing, medieval castle-like Aikwood Tower is nestled in the lush heart of Ettrick Forest, 40 miles south of Edinburgh and the traditional hunting ground of ancient Scottish royalty.  In modern times, there’s simply no better setting in which to indulge in a long, invigorating walk or cycling adventure – or even a spot of shooting and fishing.

Whether you seek out Aikwood Tower to socialise, relax with friends or seclude yourself from your hectic daily life for a while, you’ll soon find you’re in the perfect place, with five-star accommodation that has been the proud winner of several prestigious architectural awards for the quality of its restoration throughout the years.

Enter the Tower via its enchanting walled garden and west door, where a spiral staircase that winds through the beating heart of the building awaits your arrival. You’ll find plenty of original features and artefacts from renowned lives lived long ago as you explore your surroundings, marvelling at how time seems to have stopped in its tracks as you observe original artwork decorating the walls and listen to the warmly crackling fire in the Great Hall.

The accommodation comprises five stunning en-suite bedrooms, each bursting with individual character and style, along with four supremely comfy reception rooms…so you’ll easily discover your favourite spot to read, talk, celebrate…or simply contemplate life over a wee snifter of the finest whisky.

The Great Hall features animal skins on stone flooring, cosy furniture in warm colours, and with its hearty fire provides the ideal setting for relaxation and conversation.  There’s also a reading study with authentic panelled ceiling, for those who just can’t tear themselves away from their latest literary adventure – or perhaps choose from a hand-picked selection of political biographies chosen by the Tower’s owner, Lord Steel.

The open-plan former byre (that’s cow barn in English!) on the lower floor is the vibrant setting for celebrations from weddings to milestone birthdays to business meetings, whilst the gallery above features more restful indulgences including a TV, WiFi and plush seating.  A laptop and hot desk is available for those who need to check up on life back home, and there’s also a small bar for budding Tom Cruise-style mixologists!

At a glance

• Luxury medieval castle-style tower featuring five en-suite bedrooms and four reception/living spaces, for short breaks, celebrations, weddings and corporate events in the Scottish Borders.
• Easily accessed by car, with private parking available.
• Surrounded by fertile shooting and fishing grounds, with walking, cycling and sporting opportunities and plenty of local shops and dining venues nearby. Edinburgh is an hour away by car.
• In-accommodation services such as yoga and massage can also be arranged if required.

Features

• Dog Friendly
• Family Friendly
• Large Groups

More information

Meanwhile, the Laich Hall (Laich is an ancient Scots word for lower hall) is packed with games that big and little kids alike will adore…from giant Jenga, table tennis, Monopoly and Twister to name but a few.

Choose your favourite from five finely dressed en-suite bedrooms, all featuring Duxiana beds…renowned as the most technically advanced in the world, so whichever room you choose, you can be assured of a sound night’s sleep.

Enjoy perfectly catered meals, or for self-catering guests the AGA-equipped kitchen and dining room, set in the vaulted ground of the tower, provides a stunning backdrop for preparing banquets from the finest of fresh local produce, before devouring them on the beautiful burr-oak dining table.  Find your culinary inspiration in the wide selection of cookbooks available -you’ll certainly be spoilt for choice with ingredients, with the Scottish Borders rich in fresh salmon, eggs, beef and poultry.

Outside, the scenic and tranquil south-west facing walled garden is the ideal spot for apple-picking, sun-soaking or star gazing…that is, when you’re not playing croquet on the lawn.  You can even arrange a personal yoga session or an indulgent massage if you find all the relaxation, fine food and fresh air has taken its toll!

Lovers of country sports, including shooting and fishing, will love the fertile surrounding areas of the Bowhill Estate and River Tweed, while keen walkers and cyclists will enjoy exploring the delights of the Ettrick and Yarrow valleys.  Local guides are on hand to showcase the stunning ospreys, flora, fauna and  thriving wildlife in the area.

Scotland is, of course, famous for golf, and the nearby championship courses of Roxburghe and Cardrona are ideal for getting in some practise.  If you’d rather concentrate on becoming the next Wimbledon champion, tennis courts are also situated just five minutes away by car – while bustling Edinburgh is an hour’s drive away for those who prefer a day or two in the city.

With more than a little something for everyone, Aikwood Tower stands apart from other accommodation in style, luxury, history and natural opulence…so kick off your shoes, pour yourself a wee dram and get ready to indulge!

Things to note

Minimum stay of of two nights in the week (Mon-Thurs) or three nights at the weekend (Fri-Mon) but other lengths of stay during low season may be possible – please enquire. Exclusive hire is available for a group event or celebration – enquire for further details. Strictly no smoking, pets are only permitted in certain designated areas and not the bedrooms, by prior arrangement only.