Santa will surely not forget to swing by Scotland’s oldest inhabitable castle on Christmas Eve, as guests now have the opportunity to wake up at Dalhousie Castle on Christmas morning. The regal getaway could bring a whole new light to Christmas, boasting a luxury spa, a Dungeon restaurant and maybe even some snow.
Located an hour’s drive from Glasgow in Bonnyrigg, Dalhousie Castle is a four-star hotel well preserved in an authentic 13th-century castle. With a picture-perfect woodland parkland setting, the castle offers an intimate Scottish stay within its 29 rooms.
The fairytale-like fortress boasts 700 years of history, once home to the Ramsay Clan. Ever since, Dalhousie Castle hosted the likes of King Edward I, Sir Walter Scott, Oliver Cromwell and Queen Victoria before it was transformed into a luxury hotel.
Festive three-night break
Guests can spend a long weekend during Christmas or Hogmanay this season from £650 per person. For the Christmas stay, all meals and activities are included, such as gourmet dinners, spa treatments and Christmas movie screenings.
And for Hogmanay, the prices start from £900 per person and include a three-night break between December 30 and January 2. Guests will be delighted with opulent dinners, lunches and brunches, as well as a luxurious black-tie event with a six-course tasting menu within the castle to ring in 2024.
Plus, the spa facilities are included in the price, including a hydro pool, laconium, relaxation room, rain & fog shower and foot baths.
Festive afternoon tea
Those who just want a wee day out can opt for a Festive Afternoon Tea Experience, available between December 2 and 23. The website states: “A selection of sandwiches, homemade scones, savoury tarts and sweet pastries served with your choice of freshly brewed tea or coffee. The perfect way to escape the stresses of the Christmas season. Pair with a glass of bubbly for a really indulgent treat!”
Festive lunches are also available, with a seasonal menu made with fresh, local produce. If this sounds like a bit of you, just send the hotel an email to book.