The Earl & Countess, Thirlestane Castle

Accessed from the south wing of the castle, this elegant apartment forms part of a careful restoration project at Thirlestane which is sympathetic to the ancestry and provenance of the Maitland family and 400 years of Scottish history.

Enter into a dramatic black and white hallway with statement lighting and antiques offering a hint to the refined look of the wider interior. This leads into a main reception room with an open plan configuration, contrasted with rich heritage colours and sumptuous velvets which are timeless classics.

The fireplace with the original crest of the 14^th Earl and Countess is framed by an ornate gilt mirror from the state drawing room along with two original artworks from the castle collections, including one from fine portraiture artist John Scougall.

Wall panels create a dramatic impact using an intricate wallpaper reproduced from an antique tapestry while high ceilings and vast windows amplify the sense of space and light with glorious views across the sweeping castle parklands.

The bold colour choices of the bedrooms are perfectly suited to the heritage of this property, each stamped with a different feel and personality.

The fired red earth of the master bedroom is beautifully complemented by the draped canopy above the bedsteads which date back to the First World War when the castle was used as a recuperation hospital for army officers. This leads into an impressive en-suite bathroom in wedgewood blue which is warmed with underfloor heating.

The second bedroom displays confident use of colour in a stunning emerald green balanced with an intricate Schumacher ‘Chiang Mei Dragon’ fabric which is an artful salute to the castle’s links with Asia – the 15th Countess’s father was J.J. Bell-Irving, a successful Hong Kong banker and merchant whose influence can be seen throughout the castle. This leads into an en-suite shower room with heritage detailing.

The four-poster bed in limed oak in the third bedroom adds a final flourish, framed by soft linens and warming tweeds as well as those picture-perfect views.

ADDITIONAL ACCOMMODATION

For guests looking to holiday together, The Earl & Countess can be booked alongside The Maitland Apartment sleeping 4, The Lauderdale sleeping 2, The Sculleries sleeping 2 and Glenburnie sleeping 2. The South Wing is available for guests looking to book all five apartments. All apartments are located within Thirlestane Castle.