Melville Castle

Melville Castle could claim to be by royal appointment, having hosted both Mary Queen of Scots and Queen Victoria over the centuries.

These days it’s a luxurious country house hotel, handy for the capital, and the perfect spot for today’s Big Deal – an overnight stay with option of dinner.

With validity until mid-May, this offer could be a welcome spring break or a thoughtful gift.

Tranquil setting

Although it is just 20 minutes from the centre of Edinburgh, Melville Castle provides a peaceful and relaxed setting in parkland grounds. The hotel, rebuilt in the Georgian era as a grand, gothic Playfair-designed country house, combines period atmosphere with contemporary comfort, making it the perfect choice for a stylish escape, or romantic break.

Available seven days, the Big Deal option one offers an overnight stay for two in a classic double or twin room, with continental or full Scottish breakfast.

Option two offers an overnight stay for two in a classic double or twin room, with continental or full Scottish breakfast and a main course dinner.

Both options offer late checkout so you can enjoy a lie-in or a relaxing stroll after breakfast.

Classic rooms at Melville Castle offer sumptuous traditional décor, graceful furnishings and period details, alongside all the modern touches of a fine hotel.

Refined dining

Option two includes a main course dinner. Guests will dine in the splendour of the Brasserie, located in an atmospheric cellar, with the vaulted ceiling and stone walls complementing the romantic ambiance created by candlelight and an open fire.

The menu offers a range of seasonal specialities, with typical dishes including Borders venison with a redcurrant and Cognac reduction, steak pie with new potatoes, or roast fillet of pork wrapped in pancetta.

Impressed guests

Melville Castle has picked up numerous accolades over the years. Queen Victoria’s TripAdvisor review is unavailable, but these are some more recent comments:

‘The castle looks phenomenal on the drive up, the staff are superb, food is good, and that, coupled with a great night’s sleep, made it a perfect stop over.’

‘We had a wonderful time here and hope to return soon, historical and interesting venue, worth the price, romantic destination for couples of any age.’

‘The lobby area is lovely with a crackling fireplace, beautiful chandelier and mandatory impressive staircase. We stayed in a gorgeous room on the top floor and it was perfect.’

Today’s Big Deal at Melville Castle is a great gift idea, but could also serve as a welcome spring getaway if the summer just feels that bit too far away.