Dalmeny House: Scotland's Tudor Gothic Jewel by the Firth of Forth
Explore Dalmeny House, a majestic Tudor Gothic mansion set in scenic parkland with rich history and stunning views over the Firth of Forth.
Dalmeny House, located in South Queensferry near Edinburgh, is a striking Tudor Gothic Revival mansion built between 1814 and 1817 by architect William Wilkins. Home to the Earls of Rosebery for centuries, it showcases grand interiors filled with fine art, Napoleonic collections, and exquisite French furniture. Set in extensive landscaped grounds with scenic views over the Firth of Forth, it opens to the public during summer months for guided tours, offering a rich glimpse into Scottish aristocratic heritage and culture.
A brief summary to Dalmeny House
- Dalmeny House, South Queensferry, Edinburgh, EH30 9TQ, GB
- +441313311888
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during summer months when guided tours are available to access the house interiors and collections.
- Take the Shore Walk along the estate’s coastline for spectacular views of the Firth of Forth.
- Check ahead for refurbishment closures as the house undergoes restoration and event preparations.
- Explore the extensive grounds and woodlands by foot or bike to enjoy the tranquil natural setting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Bus
From Edinburgh Waverley Station, take a train to South Queensferry (approximately 30-40 minutes). From the station, a local bus or a 20-minute walk will bring you to Dalmeny House. Bus services run regularly but check schedules for seasonal variations. Train tickets cost around £5-£10 one way.
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Car
Driving from Edinburgh city center to Dalmeny House takes about 25-35 minutes via the A90. Limited parking is available on-site, so arriving early is recommended, especially during summer openings. There is no charge for parking, but access is subject to estate event schedules.
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Walking and Cycling
For active travelers, the Shore Walk connects South Queensferry with Dalmeny House along a scenic 4.5-mile coastal trail. The path is well-maintained and suitable for walking and cycling year-round, offering a gentle terrain with stunning views.
Dalmeny House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Dalmeny House
Architectural Masterpiece and Historical Roots
Dalmeny House stands as a pioneering example of Tudor Gothic Revival architecture in Scotland, designed by William Wilkins and completed in 1817. Its design features defensive crenellations, octagonal towers, fan-vaulted corridors, and mullion and transom windows, inspired by 16th-century English houses. The house replaced the older family seat, Barnbougle Castle, offering a more comfortable and elegant residence for the Primrose family, Earls of Rosebery, who have owned the estate since 1662. The property’s history stretches back even further to the Mowbray family in the 13th century, with the estate evolving through centuries of Scottish nobility.Rich Collections and Cultural Significance
Inside Dalmeny House, visitors encounter an impressive collection of art and artifacts, including portraits by Raeburn, Gainsborough, and Romney, rare French furniture and porcelain from Mentmore Towers, and one of Europe’s largest Napoleonic collections featuring Napoleon’s throne and personal effects. The house also holds a remarkable Robert Burns collection and rare Goya tapestries. The Dalmeny Library is historically significant as the birthplace of the Edinburgh Festival, linking the estate to Scotland’s cultural heritage.Stunning Grounds and Scenic Views
Set within expansive landscaped parkland and woodlands, Dalmeny House offers breathtaking views across the Firth of Forth. The estate includes mature trees, gardens, and access to the Shore Walk, a popular 4.5-mile coastal trail running from South Queensferry to Cramond. The natural setting complements the grandeur of the house, providing a tranquil environment for visitors to explore by foot or cycle throughout the year.A Living Family Home and Exclusive Venue
Despite its grandeur and public interest, Dalmeny House remains a private family residence, currently home to the 7th Earl of Rosebery. The house exudes a warm, intimate atmosphere that reflects its continuous use as a family home. It is also undergoing careful restoration to enhance its status as a luxury venue for exclusive events, weddings, and retreats, blending historic charm with modern sophistication.Legacy of Hospitality and Influence
Dalmeny House has long been a beacon of Scottish hospitality, hosting royalty, statesmen, and luminaries including Queen Victoria’s family and Prime Minister William Gladstone. The Rosebery family’s influence extends beyond architecture and art into politics and culture, with Archibald Primrose, 5th Earl, serving as Prime Minister in the late 19th century. The estate’s heritage continues to inspire and welcome visitors seeking a connection to Scotland’s aristocratic past.Visitor Experience and Seasonal Access
Open to the public during summer months, Dalmeny House offers guided tours that reveal its rich history, art collections, and architectural highlights. Visitors can immerse themselves in the stories of the Rosebery family and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. While the house is closed for major refurbishment at times, the estate grounds and the Shore Walk remain accessible year-round, making Dalmeny a versatile destination for heritage and nature enthusiasts alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hawes Pier, Queensferry
3.2 km
Historic ferry pier where centuries of Scottish maritime heritage meet modern tourism beneath the iconic Forth Rail Bridge.
Forth Rd Bridge
4.5 km
A monumental suspension bridge connecting Edinburgh and Fife, offering stunning views and a rich history spanning over six centuries.
The Queensferry Crossing
5.2 km
Discover the world’s longest three-tower cable-stayed bridge, a modern marvel spanning Scotland’s iconic Firth of Forth.
Travelodge Edinburgh Park
6.4 km
Modern, clean, and comfortable hotel in Edinburgh Park with great transport links, free parking, and family-friendly amenities.
What to do in Edinburgh
7.1 km
Uncover the rich history and vibrant culture of Edinburgh with guided tours that bring the city's unique stories to life.
The Dean Bridge
8.4 km
A soaring 19th-century stone bridge by Thomas Telford, linking Edinburgh’s New Town with the scenic Water of Leith valley.
Newhaven Harbour
8.6 km
Edinburgh's historic fishing village where royal shipbuilding heritage meets working waterfront charm and legendary fishwife tradition.
Circus Lane
8.7 km
Edinburgh's most photographed mews lane—a fairy-tale cobbled street where Georgian history meets Instagram dreams.
15 Charlotte Square
8.8 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
The Georgian House
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Discover the elegance of 18th-century life at The Georgian House, a historical museum in Edinburgh's charming Charlotte Square.
Charlotte Square
8.9 km
Explore the elegance and cultural richness of Charlotte Square, Edinburgh's Georgian gem and vibrant hub of history and art.
Heriot Row
9.0 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of Heriot Row in Edinburgh, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
The Parish Church of St Cuthbert
9.1 km
Edinburgh’s oldest Christian worship site, the Parish Church of St Cuthbert blends ancient heritage with stunning architecture and vibrant community life.
Lothian Rd
9.2 km
Explore Edinburgh's Lothian Road: A bustling hub of history, culture, and contemporary charm awaits every traveler.
Lighthouse Park
9.2 km
Explore the serene landscapes and maritime history of Lighthouse Park in Leith, Edinburgh, a perfect escape for nature lovers and tourists.
Unmissable attractions to see
Eagle Rock
1.7 km
Discover the allure of Eagle Rock, a historical landmark near Edinburgh, where nature and Scottish heritage converge in breathtaking beauty.
Craigie's Farming Deli and Cafe
2.0 km
A charming farm shop and café near Edinburgh offering fresh Scottish produce, pick-your-own fruits, and a family-friendly farm park experience.
Cramond Falls
2.3 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Cramond Falls, a scenic waterfall retreat along Edinburgh’s River Almond, perfect for peaceful walks and nature escapes.
The Cramond Whale
2.3 km
Discover the enchanting Cramond Whale sculpture, where art meets nature on Edinburgh’s scenic coastal foreshore.
Cramond Beach
2.4 km
Historic seaside charm meets scenic tranquility at Edinburgh’s expansive sandy Cramond Beach on the Firth of Forth.
Cramond Roman Fort
2.4 km
Explore the ancient Roman frontier at Cramond Roman Fort, where history meets scenic Edinburgh coastline.
Cramond Causeway
2.5 km
Walk the tidal causeway to Cramond Island, a historic and scenic escape on Edinburgh’s doorstep, accessible only at low tide.
Mini Mack Tours - Private Car Tours
2.5 km
Experience the magic of Edinburgh with personalized private car tours from Mini Mack Tours, perfect for exploring the city's rich history and stunning landscapes.
Cramond
2.7 km
Historic riverside village and coastal retreat with ancient roots, scenic walks, and a charming harbour just northwest of Edinburgh.
Maid of the Forth
3.2 km
Sail beneath Scotland’s iconic Forth Bridges on a scenic 90-minute cruise to historic Inchcolm Island, spotting seals and seabirds along the way.
Forth Bridge
3.7 km
Discover the breathtaking Forth Bridge, an engineering marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering stunning views and rich Scottish history.
Queensferry Museum
3.7 km
Discover South Queensferry’s heritage with stunning views of the Forth Bridges and engaging local history exhibits.
South Queensferry Harbour
3.9 km
A charming historic harbour with breathtaking views of the iconic Forth Bridges and vibrant maritime culture.
Lauriston Castle
4.0 km
A preserved Edwardian home with sweeping Forth views and an award-winning Japanese garden, perfect for a peaceful escape from Edinburgh’s bustle.
Priory Church
4.0 km
A 15th-century Gothic landmark blending medieval heritage with contemporary worship in the heart of South Queensferry.
Essential places to dine
Orocco Pier Restaurant
3.9 km
A chic boutique hotel and seafood grill offering stunning Forth Bridge views in historic South Queensferry, blending modern comfort with Scottish charm.
The Wee Restaurant
4.4 km
A charming, intimate Scottish seafood and steak restaurant in North Queensferry, blending local flavors with warm hospitality near the Forth rail bridge.
Forth View Hotel
7.5 km
Coastal retreat in Aberdour with stunning Forth views, fresh seafood dining, and warm Scottish hospitality.
Purslane Restaurant
8.6 km
Intimate basement fine dining where ambitious modern cuisine meets Scottish sourcing and genuine hospitality.
Locanda de Gusti
8.7 km
Authentic Neapolitan seafood and Italian flavours served in a cozy, homely setting on Edinburgh’s Dalry Road.
The Palmerston
8.7 km
A stylish West End restaurant serving modern Scottish cuisine in a refined, relaxed setting just steps from Edinburgh’s city centre.
First Coast Restaurant
8.7 km
Modern Scottish cuisine in a relaxed West End neighbourhood setting, celebrating local ingredients and attentive hospitality.
Forage & Chatter
8.8 km
Discover innovative Scottish cuisine crafted from local ingredients in a cozy West End setting at Forage & Chatter, Edinburgh.
BABA
9.0 km
Levantine spices and charcoal-grilled excellence on Edinburgh's George Street.
Aizle
9.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s acclaimed modern European tasting menu with seasonal Scottish ingredients in a bright, relaxed Garden Room setting.
The Pompadour
9.0 km
Experience refined modern Scottish cuisine with stunning Edinburgh Castle views in the elegant setting of 1925 at The Pompadour.
Badger & Co
9.1 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
Contini George Street
9.1 km
Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
9.1 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
The Table
9.2 km
Ten seats, two chefs, one unforgettable table—Edinburgh's most intimate fine dining theatre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Harbour Lane Studio
3.9 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and art in a cozy South Queensferry studio blending tradition and creativity.
Antiques & Gifts
7.6 km
Explore unique antiques and delightful gifts in the heart of Aberdour, where every item tells a story.
Blake's Vintage & Collectables
7.6 km
Discover timeless treasures and quirky collectibles in the heart of Aberdour’s charming vintage shop.
CIRCUS Vintage and Curios
8.3 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and curiosities in Edinburgh’s charming Stockbridge at CIRCUS Vintage and Curios.
Those Were The Days Vintage
8.6 km
Discover timeless elegance and authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to the 1990s at Edinburgh’s curated boutique, Those Were The Days Vintage.
ScotlandShop
8.8 km
Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
Scottish Design Exchange
9.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
One World Shop
9.0 km
Edinburgh’s oldest fair trade shop offering ethical gifts and vegan treats beneath historic St John's Church on Princes Street.
Unicorn Antiques
9.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gem for authentic antiques, vintage furniture, and timeless treasures at Unicorn Antiques on Dundas Street.
Greyfriars Art
9.1 km
A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
The Treasure Trove
9.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
9.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
Edinburgh Gifts
9.2 km
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Poundland
9.3 km
Affordable shopping in Edinburgh’s city centre with a vast range of quality products all priced to save you money.
Carnivàle Vintage
9.5 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hillend Tavern
6.3 km
A cosy traditional pub in Hillend with real ales, a welcoming beer garden, and a vibrant community spirit near Dalgety Bay.
The Last Word
8.6 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
The Jolly Botanist
8.8 km
A Victorian-style gin bar in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for its botanical cocktails, hearty Scottish fare, and warm, quirky atmosphere.
Panda & Sons
8.8 km
Edinburgh's hidden speakeasy where barbershop secrets unlock theatrical cocktails, smoky spectacles, and a fictional family's boozy tales in cosy, low-lit elegance.
The Rat Pack - Piano & Cocktail Bar
8.9 km
Edinburgh’s iconic American-style piano bar blending live music and classic cocktails in a lively West End setting.
Heads & Tales Gin Bar
8.9 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gin haven where craft distilling meets cozy speakeasy charm in the heart of the West End.
The Oxford Bar
9.0 km
Historic Edinburgh pub famed as Inspector Rebus’s haunt, offering timeless charm and a cozy, no-frills atmosphere in New Town.
The Caley Bar
9.0 km
Step into The Caley Bar for a refined blend of Victorian railway heritage, bespoke cocktails, and Scotland’s finest whiskies in the heart of Edinburgh.
Dirty Dick's Pub
9.0 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
Copper Blossom
9.1 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
Lucky Liquor Co
9.1 km
Intimate and creative cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending expert mixology with a vinyl soundtrack and a welcoming vibe.
All Bar One Exchange Plaza
9.1 km
Stylish and contemporary wine bar in Edinburgh’s heart, perfect for relaxed socializing and after-work drinks with attentive service.
NQ64 Edinburgh
9.1 km
A neon-lit arcade bar in Edinburgh blending retro gaming classics with creative cocktails and a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.
Never Really Here
9.1 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road
9.2 km
Experience Edinburgh’s craft beer culture in a vibrant, historic setting with legendary wings, 28 taps, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
