Edinburgh
Town Guide

Edinburgh Town Guide, Lauriston Castle, 6K

Situated on the north-west outskirts of Edinburgh is Lauriston Castle, where you can see an excellent collection of furniture and furnishings from the past.

Edinburgh Town Guide, The Castle, 1K Technically Lauriston is not a castle but a mansion. It dates back to the 16th century when it was built for the wealthy Napier family.

However, it is a more recent owner that makes Lauriston especially interesting. In 1902 William Reid, a local cabinet-maker, bought the mansion and he proceeded to fill it with a huge collection of furniture and furnishings.

And not only did he choose some excellent antiques, he also fitted some of the latest inventions of the early 20th century. As a result you can see artefacts such as an Edwardian flushing toilet and a very early central heating system.

Lauriston Castle was bequeathed to the nation in 1926, and so the interior remains much as the eccentric Reid left it, making for an interesting, if eclectic, collection. The house is open to the public, but for guided tours only.

The Castle is also surrounded by 30 acres of beautiful gardens and has superb views overlooking the Firth of Forth.

Lauriston Castle is open daily except Fridays from April to October and at weekends for the rest of the year.

Opening times vary according to day and season so check in advance. Entry costs around £4 for adults.





Edinburgh A-Z

| A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | W | Y | Z |



Edinburgh Town Guide Home Page

Travel Advice | Accommodation in Edinburgh | Other Town Guides