Newhailes
Newhailes is a fine late 17th century house with impressive 18th century additions and interiors, set in a fascinating 18th century designed landscape.
The house was built by the distinguished Scottish architect James Smith in 1686, and brought in the early 1700's by Sir David Dalrymple, of the Scots legal and political dynasty, who were responsible for significant improvements and additions to the house, and for one of the most important rococo interiors in Scotland.
The most remarkable addition was the library, which played host to many famous figures of the Scottish Enlightenment and was reportedly described by Dr Johnson as 'the most learned room in Europe'. Much of the original decoration and furnishing has survived intact, though worn.
The National Trust for Scotland is working to conserve the house in such a way as to leave it as 'untouched' by modern hands as possible, retaining the mellowness of its interiors rather than attempting the recreation of an immaculate dwelling as first built.
The important 18th century designed landscape is a source of intriguing discovery, revealing beneath the overgrowth a raised walkway, grotto, woodland walks and a wealth of local wildlife. Ongoing research, including archaeological work, examination of the diaries of Christian Dalrymple and other historical documents, will help inform the Trusts perspectives for restoration of the landscape. Visitors will be able to witness this gradual process rather than seeing freshly restored gardens.
2004 Thistle Award Winner for Customer Care: Visitor Attraction of the Year. These important awards recognise that as a service industry, excellence in service, hospitality and customer care are core business objectives; we are only as good as our customers perceptions. These awards are open to all members of VisitScotland's Quality Assurance schemes. No matter how large or small your business, its the size of your welcome that counts!
Opening Hours
House & Visitor Centre: Good Friday to Easter Monday and 1 May to 30 Sep, ThurMon 125.
Tours last approx 1¼ hours, starting every ½ hour from Visitor Centre. First tour departs 12.30; last tour departs 4pm.
Please allow 15 minutes prior to tour departure to collect tickets and view introductory film.
Reservation line: (0131) 653 5599. Reservations are not always necessary, though advised for holiday weekends and in order to avoid disappointment.
Estate: all year, daily.
Contact
The National Trust for Scotland
Newhailes Road
Musselburgh
East Lothian
EH21 6RY
Scotland
Tel: +44 (131) 6535599
Fax: +44 (131) 6535595
E-Mail: information@nts.org.uk
WWW: http://www.nts.org.uk
Grading & Awards
