The Hope Scott Wing at Abbotsford

• Sleeps: 16
• Bedrooms: 8
• Bathrooms: 7
• Minimum stay: 2-3 nights

Abbotsford is the personal creation and former home of Sir Walter Scott, a world-famous 19th century novelist and poet whose work inspired the likes of Tolstoy and Flaubert.

A fine example of Scottish Baronial architecture, the estate house is an imposing mini-castle with turrets and gables, surrounded by ancient rolling hills on the banks of the River Tweed.

Scott’s descendants built the Hope Scott Wing in the 1850s, as a private extension to this iconic house. In 2013 the three-storey wing was transformed into a luxury retreat, furnished with much-loved family heirlooms for a unique and welcoming atmosphere.

The opulent wing now sleeps up to 16 guests in eight elegant double bedrooms, with grand sociable spaces to make you feel like the celebrated guests that frequented Abbotsford over centuries. Anyone familiar with Sir Walter Scott will know how much he loved dogs, so your four-legged friends are very welcome to join you, too.

Choosing a favourite bedroom may prove challenging, as each one boasts an impossibly elegant style, character, and story all of its own. Most are situated on the first level, and each is named after a family member or illustrious guest of the Hope Scotts.

The Hope Scott Master features a four-poster bed, a Victorian chaise longue, and sublime views of the enchanting Regency walled gardens (to which your group will enjoy private after-hours access). Ideal for a small family, this room shares an en-suite bathroom with the Hope Scott Twin bedroom – originally the family’s nursery – in ‘Jack and Jill’ style.

Other magnificent bedrooms include Princess Alice, aunt of Queen Elizabeth II, who visited regularly. Boasting a garden-and-pavilion-facing bay window, and an en-suite with a rolltop bath, this is a room for pure indulgence. Meanwhile, the lavish Maxwell Scott Suite is fully accessible, complete with its own Victorian-furnished sitting room.

At a glance

• A luxurious retreat for group breaks, set on the Abbotsford estate in the Scottish Borders, on the banks of the River Tweed.
• The iconic estate is the creation and former home of the 19th century novelist and poet Sir Walter Scott.
• The three-storey wing features eight double bedrooms and grand sociable spaces to accommodate up to 16 guests.
• Each bedroom features a TV and a hairdryer.
• Up to three well-behaved dogs are also welcome to stay (basement level only).
• Guests will have private out-of-hours access to the estate’s Regency walled gardens and there are several waymarked trails for woodland and riverside walks.
• Edinburgh can be reached in an hour, with many market towns, outdoor activities, and historic places to visit in the surrounding area.

Features

• Disability Accessible
• Dog Friendly
• Family Friendly
• Hot Tubs
• Large Groups

More information

Accessed by a lift and stairs, the wing’s basement level is home to a delightful, bespoke breakfast kitchen – ideal for gathering over morning coffee – and Billiard Room, for fun, digital-free evening entertainment.

The ground level is where you’ll feast in the palatial dining room, overlooking the River Tweed, or relax with after-dinner drinks around the drawing room’s roaring open fire. If the sun is shining, savour a barbecue in the courtyard and patio garden – hot tub hire is also available if you’re in need of an extra treat!

If you’re staying inside, there’s a rosewood grand piano to play for background music, or steal away to Lockhart’s Library – named after Scott’s son-in-law and biographer – and choose a book from the eclectic collection you’ll find on the shelves.

What to do with your days? The Abbotsford estate is peppered with intriguing, waymarked paths that will lead you through ancient woodland and along the river banks. There’s plenty of wildlife to encounter here, including playful red squirrels and otters.

If you can bear to leave the grand confines of the estate, there are plenty of ancient castles and historic monuments to visit close by, along with quaint market towns and thrilling outdoor adventures. Bustling Edinburgh is a mere hour away, with its train station named after one of Sir Walter Scott’s greatest novels – a wonderful way to round off your break.

Things to note

The wing features a lift and stairs to all levels, with one fully accessible bedroom. The Hope Twin room can be set up as a double as required. Cots and highchairs are available, along with dog bowls and beds on the basement level. Additional extras include hot tub hire, gin tasting, catering and housekeeping packages, and a private guided tour of the estate – please visit the property website for details.