Newhailes

Among Scotland’s most notable National Trust properties, the elegant 17th-century villa of Newhailes is most famous for its opulent rococo interiors and much of its original décor and furnishings still remain. Built by architect James Smith, the property was purchased by the Dalrymple family in 1709 and remained under their ownership until 1997, when it was gifted to the National Trust and opened to the public. 
Visitors to Newhailes can explore the house by guided tour, browsing the huge purpose-built library, the grand Chinese sitting room, the servants' entrance tunnel and the tranquil gardens, which include the remains of an 18th-century teahouse. Look out for the exquisite hand-painted Chinese wallpaper, the Italian marble fireplaces, the gilded eagles in the drawing room and the Chinese silk bed hangings, as well as a series of notable paintings by Allan Ramsay, Jean Baptiste de Medina and William Aikman, before finishing your tour with tea and cake in the onsite café.

Practical Info

Newhailes is located in Musselburgh, approximately 10 km east of Edinburgh and is open daily from 11am to 5pm. Adult admission costs £12.50 including the house tour.