An earlier tower house on the site of current Melville Castle was demolished when the present structure, designed in 1786–1791 by James Playfair for Henry Dundas, 1st Viscount Melville, was built.

The original tower house was owned by the Melville family, before passing to Sir John Ross in the 14th century. It subsequently changed hands with the attached lands several times and was sold to David Rannie in 1705. It then passed to Henry Dundas through his marriage to the daughter of David Rannie, Elizabeth Rannie.

The Castle was owned by the Dundas family until after the Second World War, when the ninth Lord Melville moved to a smaller house on the estate and the castle was leased as an army rehabilitation centre and then later as a hotel. By the early 1980s, the hotel fell into disrepair and was unoccupied. In the late 1980s, the estate and the adjoining farms were sold, but remained closed.

In 1993, the castle was bought by the Hay Trust, which extensively restored the property over 8 years. The castle was reopened as a hotel in June 2003, leased by Aurora Hotels. Their lease expired in January 2012. Today it still operates as a hotel and venue for weddings and continues ownership by the Hay Trust.

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Details

Founded: 1786
Category: Palaces, manors and town halls in United Kingdom

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

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4.4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Jack Oldham (4 months ago)
The Melville Castle hotel was our first experience of Scotland and Edinburgh and it left a lasting impression. It is quite simply a stunning magical place to stay and the service is second to none. The room was of such high quality. The breakfast was delicious and staff were so polite and hospitable. A big thank you to Rachel for arranging the specific details of our stay via email with exceptional service. We will certainly be returning.
Tim Bo (4 months ago)
This hotel is stunning, a gorgeous little castle just a few miles from Edinburgh. We were unlucky in trying to get a taxi into Edinburgh, but the receptionist told me this is a first for her, as normally its not a problem. The rooms are fantastic, and beautifully decorated and furnished. The bed was very comfortable too. The food is also great, even if its a wee bit on the pricy side. We discovered this place on a whim, and we are so glad we did. The staff are so welcoming, helpful, and friendly. Fantastic service. Will definitely be back
S L (5 months ago)
First, the Brasserie Restaurant in the wine cellar is closed. All food service is in the Ballroom off the lobby. Second, you MUST ensure you book Afternoon Tea and Dinner reservations in advance. Third, you have to stay here, the Castle and grounds are spectacular. We only had a twin room and it was more than we expected.
Kathryn Brown (6 months ago)
Everything about Melville was perfect for our wedding. From the moment we went out to view the venue, we knew we were in for something special. Fiona made the experience so easy for us and we felt so listened to and taken care of throughout the planning process. They have excellent resources for wedding vendors and have helpful lists to keep you on track with planning. We so appreciated the extra courtesies such as the Christmas card they sent us and for arranging a tea and coffee morning for us when our parents came to view the venue. On the day of the wedding, she and the Melville team took care of everything including set up and we felt able to enjoy our day care-free. The food is incredible and the event options are superb. I could not recommend Melville enough. We got our modern fairytale at Melville Castle!
Gladys McMurtrie (9 months ago)
Wonderfully relaxing, staff friendly food fantastic. Nothing too much trouble. Room comfortable slightly tired but will be back with no hesitation. Ideal for visiting Edinburgh but chilling out on return. Grounds are ideal to wander in with sculptures and occasional seating and hidden nooks.
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