Dundas Castle

Dundas Castle stands on the edge of Edinburgh, near South Queensferry, where the Firth of Forth narrows. Built in the 15th century as a keep, it was later enlarged in the 19th century by architect William Burn into a Tudor-Gothic mansion. The castle and its grounds are recognised as Category A listed buildings and form part of Scotland’s Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes. The Dundas family owned the estate from medieval times until the late 19th century, when it passed to businessman Sir Jack Stewart-Clark. During the Second World War, the castle served as headquarters for protecting the Forth Bridge. The castle’s history includes visits by Oliver Cromwell in 1650 and a 1544 tip from Regent Arran to workmen building the place. In 1818, James Dundas commissioned William Burn to redesign the older parts in a grand Gothic style, adding large windows that frame the surrounding parkland. The estate once covered 1,500 acres when bought by textile magnate Stewart Clark in 1899. His son became Sir John Stewart-Clark, a baronet and Member of the European Parliament. The castle has also appeared in films and music videos, including The Little Vampire and a Weeknd song. Inside, the restored Keep now has electricity, heating, and modern kitchens, while the drawing room, library, and dining room have been redecorated. The castle operates as a five-star exclusive venue, often hosting weddings. Nearby, the Boathouse holiday cottage sits on the shore of Dundas Loch and offers self-catering stays. The grounds include lawns and parkland designed by William Burn, with views over the loch and surrounding countryside.