Traquair House

Said to be the oldest continuously inhabited house in Scotland, visited by 27 monarchs, and known for its home-brewed beer and maze.

Traquair House was founded in the 12th century as a royal hunting lodge. It has been home to the Stuart family since 1491, making it the oldest continuously inhabited house in Scotland. Because the family supported the Jacobite cause, the house's "Bear Gates" have been kept closed since 1745, and they will not be reopened until a Stuart is restored to the throne. Inside the house are a secret staircase, a priest's hiding place and a cradle used by Queen Mary. The estate's brewhouse has been brewing beer since the 18th century, and visitors can tour it and taste the beer. There is also a hedge maze. Admission is about £17. It is about 10 km from Peebles.

Opening hours

Approx. 11:00–17:00 (Apr–Oct)

Estate · Stuart · Beer

Nearby sights

• Robert Smail's Printing Works
• Glentress Forest
• Peebles
• Neidpath Castle
• Bowhill House
• St Mary's Loch
• The Great Tapestry of Scotland
• Dawyck Botanic Garden

Places to eat nearby

• The Hoebridge
• Provender
• The Caddy Mann
• The Plough Inn, Leitholm
• Ebb Carrs Seafood Café
• Giacopazzi's Fish & Chips and Ice Cream

More in Scottish Borders