Carlowrie

Carlowrie Castle, Edinburgh: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Carlowrie Castle, nestled just outside Edinburgh near Kirkliston, is a premier destination for those seeking Scottish history, culture, and luxury. This 19th-century Scottish Baronial estate, designed by David Rhind and completed in 1855, is renowned for its stunning architecture, landscaped grounds, and rich heritage. The legacy of the Hutchison family—particularly Isobel Wylie Hutchison, a pioneering Arctic explorer and botanist—adds depth to the castle’s narrative. Today, Carlowrie is celebrated for its transformation into an exclusive-use venue and its groundbreaking status as the world’s first B Corp-certified castle, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.

While Carlowrie operates primarily as a private events venue, it offers guided tours by appointment or during special open days. Its proximity to Edinburgh, excellent accessibility, and blend of tradition and innovation make it an ideal place for weddings, corporate events, or immersive historical experiences. This guide provides detailed, up-to-date information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, accommodations, dining, and key attractions at Carlowrie Castle.

For further details and booking, refer to the official website and reputable sources such as Carlowrie Castle, The Scotsman, and The National.

Carlowrie Castle History and Heritage
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Getting There and Accessibility
Accommodations and Facilities
Dining and Culinary Experiences
Events and Weddings
Art, Design, and Grounds
Sustainability and Social Impact
Visitor Tips
FAQs
Nearby Attractions
Visuals and Media
Contact and Further Information
Conclusion
References

Carlowrie Castle History and Heritage

Early Origins

Carlowrie’s roots stretch back centuries. In 2024, a remarkable 433-year-old goatskin land deed from 1591 was discovered on site, referencing King James VI and Sir James Sandilands (The Scotsman). This discovery suggests that an earlier fortress predated the current 19th-century castle.

19th-Century Construction

Commissioned by Thomas Hutchison, an Edinburgh wine merchant and Provost of Leith, Carlowrie Castle was designed by David Rhind and completed in 1855. Rhind’s design is a rare domestic example of the Scottish Baronial style, featuring turrets, crow-stepped gables, and ornate stonework amid 32 acres of landscaped grounds (Wikipedia, Carlowrie Castle).

The Hutchison Family and Isobel Wylie Hutchison

The castle was home to the Hutchison family for over 130 years. Isobel Wylie Hutchison (1889–1982), one of the family’s most distinguished members, became a trailblazing Arctic explorer and botanist. Her expeditions and writings earned her international recognition and she was the first woman to receive the Mungo Park Medal (The National). The annual Isobel Award, hosted at Carlowrie, honours those who overcome adversity to benefit their communities.

Modern Era

Ownership passed to the Marshall family in the late 20th century. Since 2014, Carlowrie has operated as an exclusive-use events venue, renowned across Europe for weddings, celebrations, and corporate gatherings (Carlowrie Castle, The Collection Events).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

General Access: Carlowrie Castle is an exclusive-use venue. Public visiting hours are limited and visits must be arranged in advance.
Guided Tours: Available by appointment or during special open days. School, youth, and charity tours are offered during off-peak seasons (Carlowrie Castle).
Ticketing: There are no walk-up tickets. All visits must be pre-booked via the official website or by phone.
Event Access: For weddings, conferences, or private events, booking is required well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Sample Timings: Tours are typically available by appointment only. For events, check-in is from 2:00 pm; check-out by 10:30 am (Coco Wedding Venues).

For up-to-date information and bookings, refer to the Carlowrie Castle official website.

Getting There and Accessibility

Location: Boathouse Bridge Road, Kirkliston, West Lothian, Scotland, EH29 9ES. About 12 miles west of Edinburgh city centre and 10 minutes from Edinburgh International Airport (VisitScotland).
Transport: Best accessed by car or taxi. Local buses to Kirkliston with a short taxi transfer.
Parking: On-site parking for up to 150 vehicles, including electric vehicle charging points (Coco Wedding Venues).
Accessibility: Main reception, gardens, and event spaces are wheelchair-accessible. For specific needs, notify the staff in advance.

Accommodations and Facilities

Exclusive Use: The castle features 21 luxurious bedrooms across the main building, gate lodge, and stables, accommodating up to 42 guests (VisitScotland).
Suites: Italian marble ensuite bathrooms, copper or nickel roll-top baths, and estate views.
Amenities: Tennis court, complimentary bicycles, and a well-stocked bar.
Check-in/Check-out: Standard check-in from 2:00 pm, check-out by 10:30 am. Early or late arrangements available by request.

Dining and Culinary Experiences

Award-Winning Chefs: Led by Executive Chef David Millar, Scottish Chef of the Year 2025 (Carlowrie Castle News).
Menus: Seasonal, locally sourced Scottish produce, with options for private tastings and bespoke menus.
Sustainability: Ingredients include dry-aged beef from local butchers, game from Scottish estates, and daily fresh fish.
Drinks: Extensive bar and all-inclusive event packages.

Events and Weddings

Venue Hire: Carlowrie is recognized as one of the world’s top wedding venues (Express), and has hosted over 265 events in a single year (Edinburgh News).
Ceremonies: Outdoor in the walled garden or indoors in the orangery (up to 100 guests); evening receptions for up to 150 guests.
Planning: Dedicated in-house events team ensures a personalized experience.

Art, Design, and Grounds

Art Collection: Over 150 pieces of urban and contemporary art curated by owner Andrew Marshall (Coco Wedding Venues).
Grounds: 32 acres of manicured lawns, woodlands, walled gardens, tennis courts, and a glasshouse. Ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

B Corp Certification: Carlowrie is the world’s first and only B Corp-certified castle (The National), reflecting rigorous standards of social and environmental responsibility.
Practices: Sustainable sourcing, EV charging, tree planting, and community regeneration projects.
Community Engagement: Supports local charities, operates The Breakfast Bothy for homelessness, and hosts the Isobel Award (Insider).

Visitor Tips

Booking: Advance booking is essential for all visits, tours, and events.
Transport: Car or taxi is recommended; ample on-site parking.
Dress Code: Smart attire for events; practical footwear for outdoor activities.
Accessibility: Discuss any special requirements when booking.
Photography: Permitted for personal use; professional shoots require prior arrangement.
Weather: Scottish weather is variable—bring layers and waterproofs (Lonely Planet).

FAQs

Q: What are Carlowrie Castle’s visiting hours?
A: Carlowrie operates as an exclusive-use venue. Visits and tours are by appointment only or during special open days.

Q: How do I book a visit or event?
A: Through the official website or by calling +44 (0)131 335 3184.

Q: Is Carlowrie Castle accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, please notify the venue of any accessibility needs in advance.

Q: Are children and pets welcome?
A: Children are welcome; pets require prior approval.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by advance arrangement.

Nearby Attractions

Edinburgh Castle
Holyrood Palace
The Royal Mile
The National Museum of Scotland
Pentland Hills Regional Park
Kirkliston town

(The Wandering Daughter)

Visuals and Media

Virtual tour and gallery with alt-tagged images for accessibility and SEO (e.g., “Carlowrie Castle exterior view”, “Gardens at Carlowrie Castle in spring”).
Maps and directions are available on the official website.
Seasonal virtual tours may be offered.

Contact and Further Information

Website: Carlowrie Castle
Phone: +44 (0)131 335 3184
Address: Boathouse Bridge Road, Kirkliston, West Lothian, Scotland, EH29 9ES

Conclusion

Carlowrie Castle stands as a paragon of Scottish heritage, luxury, and forward-thinking hospitality. Whether you seek a memorable wedding, a corporate retreat, or a private historical tour, Carlowrie delivers an exclusive experience rooted in tradition and social responsibility. Advance booking is essential—visit the official website for availability.

Stay updated on events and offers by following Carlowrie Castle on social media and downloading the Audiala app for curated Scottish travel content and immersive guided tours.

Summary

Carlowrie Castle offers a rare blend of historical grandeur, modern luxury, sustainable practices, and cultural engagement. Its B Corp status, community initiatives, and legacy as home to Isobel Wylie Hutchison make it a beacon of responsible tourism in Scotland. Book in advance, explore the estate’s unique features, and immerse yourself in a setting where heritage meets innovation.