Edinburgh Scottish Houses, Castles & Interiors

Edinburgh and its surroundings are notable for their splendid legacy of historical houses, castles and palaces, which mirror not only Scotland’s history but also changing architectural styles, fashions and interests in collecting. From a base in Edinburgh, we will take in a range of fascinating properties both in the capital and the countryside, to study the history of the country house in Scotland across several centuries.

Buildings such as the grandiose Hopetoun House reveal the work of some of Scotland’s foremost architects in the 18th century. Meanwhile, in the Borders, we will visit the Scots Baronial mansion Abbotsford – home to Sir Walter Scott – which presents an intriguing fashion in the development of early 19th century antiquarian taste.

Our tour begins with an opportunity to consider the history of the city of Edinburgh from the perspective of the built environment, with a visit to the Castle Esplanade from which we can enjoy views of the New Town from above and learn about the city’s growth and development. Visits in Edinburgh will include Gladstone’s Land, one of the oldest buildings on the Royal Mile, featuring hand-painted interiors; the Museum of Edinburgh; and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Lauriston Castle, which features stunning views across the Firth of Forth and fine collections of furniture, dates from the 16th century but features 19th century extensions. Marchmont House, recipient of the Historic Houses / Sotheby’s Restoration Award in 2018, is a magnificent Palladian mansion with fine interiors and Arts & Crafts adaptations.

Further highlights of the tour will include the famous Stirling Castle and Scone Palace, and a visit to see the exterior of the extraordinary Pineapple Folly, built in 1761 by the Earl of Dunmore as a summerhouse.

We will stay throughout at the elegant three-star Parliament House Hotel, tucked away in a quiet location in the heart of the city centre.

This tour will be led by Ian Cox, BA, MA, Cert ED, a lecturer who has held senior posts in the History of Art Department at Glasgow University and as Director of Studies at Christie’s Education in London. He has a special interest in material culture and the history of the decorative arts, and for many years directed the Victorian Society of America London Summer School and the Christie’s Decorative Arts Summer School in New York.