Lauriston Castle, Edinburgh Travel Guide

Lauriston Castle began as a 16th-century tower house built for the Napier family, later extended in the 19th century in Jacobean style. Over the centuries it passed through the hands of notable figures, including economist John Law, before being acquired in 1902 by William and Margaret Reid. The Reids modernised the house with electricity and plumbing and filled it with fine furniture, ceramics and personal belongings. On their death, they bequeathed Lauriston to the city on the condition that it be preserved unchanged, making it a rare, authentic window into Edwardian middle-class life in Scotland.

The castle itself is only accessible on guided tours, which run at set times and must be booked in advance. Inside, the rooms are arranged much as they were in the early 1900s, with period furnishings, family portraits, and everyday objects that bring the past to life. Visitors often notice the newspaper in the sitting room reporting the sinking of the Titanic, a poignant detail that anchors the house in its historical moment. The knowledgeable guides share stories of the Reids and earlier residents, explaining how the house functioned and what life was like for its inhabitants.

Beyond the house, Lauriston’s grounds stretch down to the shore of the Firth of Forth, offering woodland paths, lawns and flowerbeds. The gardens are free to enter and open daily, making them a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. A rose corner and herbaceous borders provide colour in summer, while mature trees create a peaceful, leafy atmosphere. Paths wind through the woods and along the shoreline, with benches placed to enjoy the wide views across the water towards Fife.

One of the highlights of the grounds is the Kyoto Friendship Garden, created to celebrate Edinburgh’s twinning with Kyoto Prefecture in Japan. Designed in traditional Japanese style, it features carefully placed rocks, a koi pond, a wooden bridge and a tea house. Cherry trees bloom in spring, and Japanese maples turn fiery red in autumn, making the garden especially beautiful in these seasons. It’s considered one of the finest Japanese gardens in Britain and is a serene place for quiet contemplation.

Lauriston Castle and its gardens offer a calm, green retreat just a short distance from Edinburgh’s city centre. Whether you’re exploring the Edwardian interiors, strolling through the woodland, or sitting by the Japanese garden with a coffee from Mimi’s Bakehouse, the atmosphere is relaxed and unhurried. The combination of history, architecture and nature makes it a rewarding destination for families, couples and solo visitors who want to step away from the urban rush and enjoy a slower pace.