Hopetoun House

A brief history of Hopetoun House

Two houses in one
Hopetoun House is made up of two houses. One section was an imposing landmark on the Firth of Forth's shores, designed by Sir William Bruce for the 1st Earl of Hopetoun.

The Adam Brothers
Some 20 years later, William Adam added a major extension, a project continued by his sons, John and Robert Adam. They were responsible for the stunning façade, colonnades, and State apartments that held some of the most sumptuous dining and entertainment events. The Adams brothers were to become renowned for their furniture and interior designs, leaving a design legacy that continues to be much admired today.

Versailles of the north
The resulting house is one of Scotland's finest stately homes. Versailles' influence is apparent in the architecture, which features a horseshoe-shaped plan and lavish interior plasterwork. The 18th-century Neo-Classical architecture's grandeur is evident in the opulent gilding and classical motifs, the Rococo plasterwork, and the impressive ornate decorated mantelpieces. The ceiling paintings are another noteworthy feature. 

A magnificent 'Royal Drive' sweeps up to the front of the house. However, its use is reserved for the Royal Family. King George most recently used it in 1822, and Queen Elizabeth in 1988. The house is run as charitable trust dedicated to preserving the magnificent home, contents, and the surrounding landscape for all to enjoy.   

Hopetoun House and estate
Visiting Hopetoun House is a pleasure. Although displaying original period artefacts dating from late Georgian to Edwardian, it avoids seeming like a museum. The house has been the Hope family's home for almost 350 years and continues to be the present Lord Hopetoun's home.

Walking around the house gives an insight into the extremely wealthy lifestyle of the Earls of Hopetoun in the 1700s era. The original furnishings, décor, and art collection are all displayed against a backdrop of magnificent interiors. An impressive spiral staircase leads to the bedrooms, all of which remain true to the period.

The 150-acre grounds and parkland are spectacular and are of year-round interest.  In particular, there are two walks; The Spring Garden trail, taking approx, thirty minutes amongst wooded and planted areas. The Sea Walk trail takes about an hour and features fantastic scenery and views across Forth's Firth. Red deer roam through the rolling parkland surrounding the house and includes scenic woodland walks and picnic areas. 

Hopetoun House stables and kitchen
The Stables Kitchen provides a welcome opportunity for refreshments within the 18th century Adam Stables' beautiful surroundings. The menu features locally sourced and seasonal produce wherever possible. Traditional afternoon teas are a speciality.

Around Hopetoun House
Hopetoun House is surrounded by several other fascinating places of interest well worth a visit. Among them; Dunfermline, Capital of Scotland until 1603, and the birthplace of Andrew Carnegie. In addition to a museum telling his story, it also has a beautiful Abbey Church. Culross, a historic 16th-century village that has been carefully preserved by the National Trust and Linlithgow Palace; on Linlithgow Loch's edge, James I's palace was in 1425.

A visit to Hopetoun House features in several of our recommended itineraries; alternatively, we can include it in a bespoke designed tour to fit your specific interests. 

Touring and accommodation
We can incorporate a visit to Hopetoun House as part of a private tour of Edinburgh or make a stop en-route to Stirling Castle. Hopetoun House is a short drive from Edinburgh's city centre. Our Tour-Designers can tailor a tour of Scotland to include the special places relating to Scotland's history and the stately homes.

Edinburgh has a vast choice of accommodation. We look for quality, service and our ability to include complimentary amenities. Stay in the elegant New Town at The Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel. Enjoy views of Edinburgh Castle from the Waldorf Astoria Caledonian Hotel. There are many options we can discuss you with you. Please contact us for details.