Trachair House

Dating back to 1107, Trachair House was originally a hunting lodge for the kings and queens of Scotland. Later a refuge for Catholic priests in times of terror the Stuarts of Trachair supported Mary Queen of Scots and the Jacobite cause without counting the cost.

Today the house is a unique piece of living history welcoming visitors from all over the world, providing a magical and romantic setting for weddings, hosting a wide range of summer events and a superb venue for corporate groups. You can even stay in the luxurious Bed & Breakfast accommodation.

Visitors are invited to enjoy the house, extensive grounds, maze, craft workshops, 1745 Cottage Restaurant and the famous House Brewery housed in the eighteenth century wing and producing the world famous House Ales.

3 double/twin bedrooms are available for exclusive hire. Breakfast each morning is included in the rental price.

The entrance leads on to the main stone spiral staircase which goes up to the High Drawing Room, bedrooms, Library and Museum. The ground floor gives access to vaulted cellars and the Still Room which has a fine collection of blue and white china. If you are staying for bed and breakfast, the Still Room is where breakfast is served.

When completed in the 16th century, the High Drawing Room ceiling was decorated with painted beams and panels. There are full length portraits painted in Scotland in the 1630's, a portrait of John Dryden the poet, and the Drawing Room also contains a rare harpsichord, in full working order, made by Andreas Ruckers of Antwerp in 1651.

The Kings Room and dressing room next door formed the first floor of part of the original 12th century castle. In 1566 Mary Queen of Scots visited Sir John Stuart, who was 4th laird and captain of her bodyguard, with her husband Lord Darnley and infant son James (later King James VI) whose wooden cradle you can see at the end of the bed. The state bed, which is 16th century, was brought from Terregles House where it was used by Mary when she stayed there.

Created between 1700 and 1740, the Library has a collection of about 3000 books and has remained almost intact since it was first formed.

The natural beauty of the grounds are a perfect complement to the intimate nature of the house. There are no formal gardens here but over 100 acres of woodlands, lawns and the more modern maze.

The woodland trails around the house include Lady Louisa's favourite walk and a gentle stroll down to the River Tweed with striking views of the Tweed Valley. Although there are no formal gardens there are some beautiful and relaxing spaces in the grounds where you can take lunch, enjoy the wildlife or just relax and enjoy the peace.

The old walled garden houses the Cottage Restaurant and visitors are invited to take lunch amongst the old apple trees and relax with the gentle sound of the fountain from the garden pond a new herbaceous border is also being developed in this area. At the west side of the house you will discover Cupid's garden tucked away where the theme of the planting is white and grey and is a genuinely romantic spot. Near Cupid's garden you will also find the Croquet Lawn where a heather hut built in 1834 still stands and a croquet set can be provided on request.

The woodlands are rich in bird life, insects and other wild life such as deer, otters and small mammals. The domestic wildlife include peacocks, ducks and swans as well as rare poultry breeds which can be found around the grounds and on the old well pool at the back of the house. In addition there are cashmere goats, ponies and not forgetting the King Charles Spaniels who inhabit the house.

An attractive mini adventure playground is situated at the back of the house with equipment for all ages. In addition there is a toddlers' play area, swings and a play house. Scavenger hunts and activity sheets for children can be picked up at the Gift Shop.

*Please note, locations shown on the maps are approximations only

The distance to the nearest pub in Innerleithen is 1.5 miles.

Edingurgh is 60 minutes away (with the airport just 40 minutes away). Glasgow is 60 miles away.

For dinner: there many dining places in the area; from country inns to 5 star hotels. (Dinner may sometimes be available in the house by prior arrangement).

Wedding capacity
Indoor reception capacity: 34 maximum for sit down meal
Outdoor reception capacity: No maximum

Availability
April to November

Service
There is a chapel on site that can be used for a service as well as a chapel nearby. We have a wedding license for the house and grounds.

Catering
From £35 pp

Other Services
Flowers: Yes, Live bands/DJs: No, Transport: Yes, Marquee hire: Yes, Wedding planner: Yes – venue based only

Accommodation
6 guests can be accommodated at the property and there is plenty of accommodation nearby for the rest of the party.

Travel
Bus / Taxi

- Security deposit: N/A.
- Linen & Towels: Included.
- Energy costs: Included.
- End of stay cleaning: Included.
- Arrival time: 14:00
- Departure time: 11:00
- Pets: At owners desertion. Please enquire.
- Smoking: Non Smoking.
- It is recommended that all guests take out insurance to cover against potential cancellation and any accidental damage caused during your stay at the property.