Borthwick Castle, Scotland: a party venue fit for a queen

A brief intermittence in the otherwise uninterrupted Midlothian landscape, there’s something rather stoic about Borthwick Castle.

It’s hard not to be impressed by the imposing building standing resolutely against the mottled sky, which, when considering its original purpose – as a stronghold for the Borthwick clan – is entirely the point.

History

Having long been relieved of its protective duties, the 600 year old keep now enjoys a reputation as one of the most spectacular party venues in the UK. Both opulent and traditional, the building itself would surely outdo even the best dressed guest. This is a place made to be explored, giddily, over the course of an evening.

A building so steeped in history can often feel like it has a life of its own. Built in the 15th century, it’s seen its fair share of drama, which is exactly what you want if you’re looking to hire out somewhere historic.

Famed for housing Mary Queen of Scots after the death of her husband and later spitting her out again, dressed in a page boy’s garb as she tried to escape a host of irate Scottish barons, it also still bears the scar of an attack by Oliver Cromwell in 1650.

Design

Although nowhere near as eventful as its chequered past, Borthwick has enjoyed some action over recent years too. Filled with garish seventies carpets and mismatched furniture, it had been run as a hotel for years before being bought by a couple who, after staying there and falling in love with it, thankfully set about restoring it to its former glory.

Four years on, thanks to the enlistment of award-winning interior designer Melanie Brown, the space has been transformed. Each of the ten chambers has been refurbished individually to tell the story of a famous guest – the Mary Queen of Scots and Lord Borthwick rooms being the most opulent of the lot – but it’s the Great Hall and State Room that really pack a punch.

Despite the eight foot thick walls and scarcity of windows, Brown has somehow managed to make the castle seem light and airy. Feather down cushions crowd hand crafted George Smith sofas and golden light cast by multiple candelabras is absorbed by the velvet rushes. Dinner on the long banquet table is presided over by two rather proud looking suits of armour and, no matter the time of year, you’ll always find a fire crackling in the grate.

With ten bedrooms, three reception rooms and a newly completed honeymoon suite, the castle can hold around 80 people – ideal for an intimate wedding, extravagant client banquet or milestone birthday. The staff are on hand at all times to offer advice on themes and culinary day dreams are brought to life by resident head chef Derek Johnstone- an ex charge of Michel Roux Jr and winner of 2008’s Masterchef: The Professionals.

Food

It’s hard to decide what the best thing about this place is, but the food - made using seasonal, local ingredients – is a strong contender. Hog roasts fat with crackling, melting wild venison or sweet and succulent lobster- whatever your food fantasy, Johnstone will bring it to life with panache. I still dream of the woodland mushroom ravioli paired with a sharp Barbera and the extensive porridge menu on offer in the morning.

Getting There

Unless you have a helicopter in which to arrive on the manicured lawn (this has been done before) a rather more modest travel option will have to suffice.

Just a thirty minute drive from Edinburgh airport and a couple of miles from Gorebridge station, the castle can be easily reached by both air and rail. Whilst the 70 minute easyJet journey isn’t a particularly comfortable one, it’s certainly convenient; although the stunning views as you travel up the east coast by train trump it in terms of beauty.

Lasting Impression

If you’re looking to host an event that’ll be talked about for years to come, Borthwick Castle offers the backdrop for exactly that. With its decadent furnishings, lavish feasting and raucously festive feel, you can imagine its original inhabitants being proud of its restoration to grandeur.

After all, how much can the art of partying have really changed over the last half a millennia?

Cost

Prices start at £9000 for weekdays, increasing to £12,000 for weekend hire. For further enquiries, visit the website here.