Dairsie Castle

Plan your escape to a magical medieval castle in the heart of Scotland, filled with charm and comfort, and just an hour away from Edinburgh.

Boasting a unique history that leads all the way back to the 12th century, Dairsie Castle was once a safe royal escape, playing host to King James I and VI, as well as a base for secret Scottish parliaments and military sieges.

Carefully restored to its former glory at the end of the 20th century, these days the castle feels more like a grand and characterful family home, with plenty of historic touches to celebrate its rich national heritage. 

Perfectly positioned in six acres of peaceful rural grounds that are just 15 minutes from St. Andrews and its legendary golf course, and an hour from Edinburgh, Dairsie Castle is the ideal setting for grand reunions and celebratory catch-ups between up to 14 guests.

Relax amongst warm wooden beams, well-chosen pieces of art, ornate sculptures, and tapestry throws, as you chat over a welcome glass of wine. 

You'll find the second floor living room furnished with squishy sofas and a TV (simply let the kids loose in the dedicated toy room next door!), while the vast, exquisite Great Hall is the place for celebratory banquets you'll never want to end. But when they do, simply light the fireplace, sit back, and get lost in your sumptuous surroundings.

Whip up those banquets in the Aga-equipped kitchen, filled with handy culinary gadgets, and plenty of space for others to keep you company as you cook. Complete with a comfy table and chairs, it's also a charming setting for breakfast.

There's plenty of outdoor space to explore, including a cop with a spellbinding woodland walk that leads down to the River Eden, as well as an orchard, and a walled herb garden. To really maximise that rural scenery, though, head up to the top floor of the castle and into The Gallery; a sun-drenched, art-and-antique-filled space that showcases the surrounding area to perfection.

You'll have six stunning bedrooms to choose from when it's time to turn in. The ground-floor Dungeon is ideal for adventurous souls, with its twin beds, vaulted ceiling, and en-suite bathroom.

The enormous master room is made for families, equipped with a kingsize and two large single four-poster beds, and a gorgeous en-suite with a standalone bath and Japanese art-inspired window shutters.

There's a stylish double bedroom in the upper and lower tower, both named after former owners and residents of the castle, and both featuring en-suite bathrooms. Finally, the South and North Caphouse rooms offer twin and double accommodation, with shared shower facilities.

So, what to do after your sound night's sleep? While you could head out to enjoy all the charms of the local area, you may find your castle retreat so steeped in them itself, that there's no need to leave its welcoming embrace at all.

Things to note

Check in after 4pm, check out by 10am. Pets and smoking are not permitted.