Cringletie Estate

A Baronial House in the Borders

Cringletie is a striking Scottish Baronial mansion standing on a 28‑acre estate just outside Peebles in the Scottish Borders. Designed by the celebrated architect David Bryce and completed in 1861, the house replaced an earlier 17th‑century residence on the same site, whose lands were acquired in 1666. The current building is a Category B listed structure, its turrets, gables, and stonework evoking the romantic grandeur of Victorian Scotland. Today, Cringletie functions as a country house hotel, blending historic character with modern comfort in a peaceful, elevated setting above the Eddleston Water.

Life on the Estate

The estate’s 28 acres are a mix of formal gardens, lawns, light woodland, and a historic walled garden dating from 1666. Guests can wander along a one‑mile nature and history trail that loops through the woods, offering views back to the house and glimpses of the estate’s past. On the lawns, classic country pursuits are encouraged: croquet, boules, pitch‑and‑putt golf, and an outdoor chess set provide gentle entertainment. The walled garden, with its old yew hedging and long history, is especially atmospheric in spring and summer, when it bursts into colour and scent.

Accommodation and Dining

Cringletie’s guest rooms and suites are individually decorated, many with feature fireplaces, romantic turrets, and large windows framing views of the gardens and surrounding countryside. The hotel also includes Ardean, a two‑bedroom self‑catering cottage in the grounds. The Sutherland Restaurant, holding 2 AA Rosettes, is a destination in itself, serving seasonal, locally sourced dishes in an elegant setting. Afternoon tea, breakfast with panoramic views, and private dining for weddings and events complete the culinary offering, all within a house that feels both grand and welcoming.

History and Character

The Cringletie estate has deep roots in the region. A tower and manor place at Cringiltie were mentioned in a 1633 charter, and the Murray family, later Wolfe Murray, held the property for centuries. Captain Alexander Murray, a British Army officer who served in the Seven Years’ War, was born here in the 18th century. The 1861 house preserves this heritage in its architecture and interior details, including bespoke tartan carpets inspired by family tartans and local artwork on display. Since 1971, the house has been a hotel, evolving into a refined yet relaxed retreat that honours its past.

Guest Experience

Cringletie caters to a wide range of visitors: couples seeking a romantic break, families with children, and dog owners, as the hotel is pet‑friendly. The atmosphere is elegant but unstuffy, with warm, attentive service and comfortable public spaces perfect for rainy days. The estate is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of relaxation and gentle activity, whether that’s a woodland walk, a round of croquet, or simply sitting with a book by a window overlooking the gardens. The hotel also hosts weddings and events, from intimate ceremonies to larger celebrations, and can be hired for exclusive use for house parties or family gatherings.