Scotland

The castle was built in 1789 by acclaimed architect Robert Adam using stone from Seton Palace, described as Mary Queen of Scots’ preferred retreat. Seton Castle was Robert Adam’s final project in Scotland and his masterful touch is in evidence in the beautifully executed ceiling plasterwork, curved oak panelled doors and dramatic bay windowed rooms. Castellated features such as slit windows and turrets are strikingly imposing from the outside but discreetly located in the numerous turrets, thus allowing it to retain the feel of a grand family home when inside. Secret staircases, curved doors, curved walls, arched windows and hidden doors add to the charming sophistication of the architecture and design.

The unbroken ownership of Seton Castle by the Wemyss family from the late 18th century until 2003 served to freeze Seton in a protective time warp, ensuring the preservation of the elegant architectural detail created by Adam. Seton has since been refurbished to fit today’s world, including the installation of a full security system, creation of a state of the art gym, playroom, huge double AGA kitchen, magnificent silk-lined dining room, billiard room, traditional olde world bar, cinema, guest cottages, apartments and a helipad.

In addition to the seven-bedroom home at the core of the castle, the property includes three separate dwellings. The Darnley and The Bothwell are self-contained cottages in the wings, each with a living room, kitchen, three bedrooms, bathroom and WC. The Hideaway is a delightfully romantic suite hidden at the top of a turret spiral staircase.

The working stables at Seton have been refurbished and include a foaling stable. Adjacent to the stables lies the coach house and the Stable Bar – the castle’s private tavern, situated in the original tack room of the stable block.