Whispers of literary gatherings linger within Craigcrook Castle’s walls. This magnificent castle stands proudly in Edinburgh’s Craigcrook district about three miles west of the city center. Craigcrook Castle boasts a history stretching back to the 14th century when the Graham family owned the lands. In 1362 the lands were gifted to the chaplains of St Giles Cathedral. The castle as we see it today primarily dates to the 17th century although later additions altered its appearance.
The Adamson family a prominent merchant family in Edinburgh played a significant role in Craigcrook Castle’s history. William Adamson a member of this family owned vast estates in northwestern Edinburgh including Craigleith Groathill and Clermiston. Sadly he perished at the Battle of Pinkie in 1547. It is believed the Adamson family either constructed or extensively remodeled the original Craigcrook Castle. They retained ownership until 1659 when it was sold.
Ownership of Craigcrook Castle changed hands multiple times. Sir John Hall of Dunglass who later served as Lord Provost of Edinburgh in 1689 resided here. Following his ownership it passed through the hands of Walter Pringle an advocate and John Strachan a Writer to the Signet. Upon Strachan’s death in 1719 the property including Craigcrook Castle was bequeathed for charitable purposes. The charitable Craigcrook Mortification established after Strachan’s passing still owns the castle and grounds.
A chilling tale surrounds Helen Bell Strachan’s servant who was murdered near Edinburgh Castle Rock in 1707. The murderers used her key to access Strachan’s Edinburgh townhouse where they stole a considerable sum of money. William Thomson one of the perpetrators was executed in the Grassmarket for this heinous crime.
Craigcrook Castle’s literary legacy is undeniable. In the 19th century it housed Archibald Constable the renowned publisher. His son Thomas Constable was born within these walls in 1812. Later the esteemed lawyer and literary critic Francis Jeffrey Lord Jeffrey made Craigcrook Castle his home. Jeffrey oversaw significant improvements to the castle adding a drawing-room wing and commissioning David Roberts to embellish the library. William Playfair’s remodeling efforts further shaped the castle’s structure in 1835. Sir Walter Scott a frequent visitor enjoyed the castle’s ambiance. Lord Cockburn also frequented the castle for over 34 years.
The castle’s literary gatherings were legendary. Charles Dickens Hans Christian Andersen George Eliot and Lord Tennyson were among the distinguished guests who graced its halls. Even today Craigcrook Castle is said to be haunted by Lord Jeffrey adding to its mystique.
Throughout its history Craigcrook Castle has served various purposes. Between 1986 and 2004 it housed the Scottish headquarters of Marine Harvest a multinational fish-farming company. Benjamin Tindall Architects restored its interior in 1989. More recently Craigcrook Castle’s future has been transformed. It is being adapted into a care home. The story of Craigcrook Castle is one of longevity resilience and enduring charm. It’s a castle that continues to enchant those who encounter its captivating tale.