Lovers of both architecture and the show Outlander alike often find themselves drawn to the magnificent and grandiose Hopetoun House just outside Edinburgh, Scotland.
Like many of the country’s iconic buildings, Hopetoun House has a rich and vast history and a strong connection to the aristocracy- and it is well worth a visit!
We look at everything you need to know about Hopetoun House: Outlander, History, places to stay nearby, and more.
Table of contents
- Hopetoun House: Outlander , History, & More
- Where to Stay Near Hopetoun House
- 1. The Shore, Queensferry (4.2 km from Hopetoun House)
- 2. Coorie Hotel, Dunfermline
- 3. DoubleTree by Hilton, Queensferry Crossing
- 4. Dakota Edinburgh, Queensferry
- 5. Orocco Pier, Queensferry (2.4 km from Hopetoun House)
- 6. Salmond Place Apartment, Edinburgh
- 7. Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club, Kirknewton
- 8. Macdonald Houstoun House, Broxburn
- FAQs
- More Scotland Posts
- Free Resources
- Pin Hopetoun House
Hopetoun House: Outlander, History, & More
Lord, where to begin?!
Well, first of all, Hopetoun House is a whopper of a location (3,261.5 sq. ft and on 144 acres of land), so you’ll want to put aside plenty of time to visit. But let’s dig deeper as to why the estate makes for such a wonderful day out….
Hopetoun Estate
The expansive and frankly breathtaking Hopetoun Estate is a Scottish country house that can be found in South Queensferry, just west of the city of Edinburgh in the borough of West Lothian, and is currently owned by the Hopetoun House Preservation Trust.
However, the south wing of the residence is currently occupied by the family of Adrian Hope, the 4th Marquess of Linlithgow.
During the summer months, certain parts of the house and grounds are open to visitors, as well as make for a potential filming location for period shows and features. Also, lovers of classical music can enjoy a recital there. Oh, and you can also get hitched there too!
Hopetoun House History
The manor was built between 1699 and 1701, the design being the work of the renowned architect, Sir William Bruce. Some 12 years later, the house underwent huge extensions, which lasted over a period of several decades and included the jaw-dropping entrance hall.
At some point during the 17th century, the land was acquired by the respected Hope family. Fast-forward three centuries and the property is fully protected by the registered charity, Hopetoun House Preservation Trust, and is accessible for a number of opportunities, including:
- Filming & photography
- Weddings
- Corporate events
- Holiday accommodation
- Educational resources & activities
- Day trips
Red Drawing Room
Fans of the Sony Pictures Television series Outlander will certainly recognise the Red Drawing Room, which plays the part of the Earl of Sandringham’s drawing room in the show.
The room itself is pretty impressive on the silver screen but is downright jaw-dropping in real life, with very few changes to the set, including the famous red satin wallpaper, gold gilt frames, and period furniture.
One of the scenes in the Red Drawing Room is when Claire visits the Duke of Sandringham to blackmail him into pardoning Jamie. The very same room is also later featured as part of Helwater Estate, owing to the power of scene-dressing and clever lighting!
Midhope Castle
One of the many other Outlander locations fans adore is Lallybroch, AKA, Midhope Castle, AKA, the ancestral home of James Fraser, which has featured in seasons 1, 2, 3, and 4.
Although the location is derelict, you can still visit it, and it’s well worth a visit. And the best part? It’s in the vicinity, so those visiting Hopetoun House can take a detour to Midhope Castle nearby.
Outlander Filming Locations at Hopetoun House
Outlander devotees can enjoy a tour of the show’s Hopetoun locations. Here’s what you need to tick off your Outlander/Hopetoun House bucket list!
- The Duke of Sandringham’s Red Drawing Room/Lord Dunsany’s Drawing Room at Helwater Estate
- Guest Room at Bruce House, AKA, the Parisian room where Mary recovers from her sex attack.
- Mary Hawkins’ room at her uncle’s home from season 2, episode 5.
- The entrance to the Earl of Ellesmere’s House from season 3, episode 4.
- The entrance to Maison Elise, the Parisian brothel from season 2.
- Market Street in Paris, from season 2. Believe it or not, but none of the Parisian scenes in the show were shot on location in the City of Love. They were shot in Prague, England, and right here at Hopetoun House! This very location is also used for the alley in which Mary is raped on her way to the dinner party.
- The Helwater Estate stables of season 3.
- The entrance to Lord Sandringham’s home in season 1.
And many more. If you wish to see them all, you’re advised not to leave your visit until later in the day.
Hopetoun House Opening Times (+ Prices)
Visitors need to be mindful that the manor is only open to the public from April to September. However, visitors (such as happy couples wanting to tie the knot) can visit by appointment during the winter months.
For day visitors, the house opens at 10.30 am Thursday until Monday, with the last entry being at 4 pm.
Ticket prices:
- Adults: £10.50 for House & Grounds and £4.75 for just grounds
- Children: £5.50 for House & Grounds and £2.95 for the grounds
- Groups (15+): £9.00 for House & Grounds and £4.25 for grounds
You can book tickets online or purchase them at the gate.
Where to Stay Near Hopetoun House
Because Hopetoun House is so close to Edinburgh, there are plenty of accommodation options in the city, as well as in the surrounding areas, such as South Queensferry, Dunfermline, and Broxburn.
1. The Shore, Queensferry (4.2 km from Hopetoun House)
Those favouring modern and city chic style accommodation – but without the noise, hustle, and bustle of Edinburgh – can enjoy The Shore, a 3-bedroom holiday home.
Main features:
- Entire home
- Free Wi-Fi
- Free parking
- Private bathroom
- Garden
- Sea view
- Family rooms
2. Coorie Hotel, Dunfermline
The family-run Coorie Hotel is a stylish and spacious coastal accommodation option just 16 miles outside of Edinburgh. The hotel also features a café for those needing a coffee and a bite to eat before their Outlander explorations!
Main features:
- En-suite bathrooms
- Free Wi-Fi
- Flatscreen TV
- Tea & coffee facilities
- On-site café/restaurant
- Free parking
- Bar
- Beachfront accommodation
3. DoubleTree by Hilton, Queensferry Crossing
Avoid the Edinburgh crowds, as well as enjoy a stay just down the road from Hopetoun House with the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel.
As well as incredible views of the Firth of Forth bridges, you have everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Main features:
- Sea view
- Restaurant & bar
- Free parking
- Private bathroom
- Room service
- Free Wi-Fi
- Fabulous breakfast
4. Dakota Edinburgh, Queensferry
The ultra-stylish and contemporary Dakota Edinburgh is ideal for those wanting to board with a little class, as well as enjoy the hotel’s award-winning restaurant.
Located 30 minutes from Edinburgh City Centre and just 10 minutes from Edinburgh airport, this accommodation is ideal for those coming from overseas.
Main features:
- Restaurant & bar
- Free parking
- Free Wi-Fi
- Fitness centre
- Facilities for disabled guests
- Room service
- Good breakfast
- Tea & coffee facilities in all rooms
5. Orocco Pier, Queensferry (2.4 km from Hopetoun House)
Featuring boutique-style bedrooms and unmatched views of the Firth of Forth, Orocco Pier is the ultimate waterside accommodation that features a delicious bar and grill to fill those tummies after a busy day of adventuring.
Main features:
- Sea view
- 2 Restaurants & bars
- Free Wi-Fi
- Beachfront
- Room service
- Ensuite bathrooms with luxury toiletries
- Flatscreen TV
6. Salmond Place Apartment, Edinburgh
Enjoy the vibrant flow of Edinburgh life by staying in the heart of the city, Holyrood, and in the luxury and comfort of the Salmond Place Apartment.
This pet-friendly accommodation is right on the cusp of the city’s beloved Royal Mile and features all the amenities needed for a city break.
Main features:
- Whole house
- Outdoor space
- Pet-friendly
- Free Wi-Fi
- Laundry Facilities
- Private bathroom
- Great location
7. Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club, Kirknewton
Featuring architecture, luxurious spaces, and garden grounds that rival Hopetoun House itself, the lavish Dalmahoy Hotel gives you countryside peace with a (huge) side order of glam!
Not only does it feature a gorgeous heated indoor pool, but it has 2 restaurants and a golf course.
Main features
- Gym
- Free parking
- 2 restaurants
- Pool
- Golf course
- Laundry service
- Room service
- 24-hour front desk
- Bar
- Free Wi-Fi
- Game room
- Tennis court
8. Macdonald Houstoun House, Broxburn
Located in the west of Edinburgh, Macdonald Houstoun House is an upscale hotel in the heart of the countryside that boasts a spa and an indoor pool.
Main features:
- Pet-friendly
- Pool
- Spa
- Free Wi-Fi
- Free parking
- Laundry facilities
- Restaurant
- Room service
- Gym
- 24/7 front desk
- Bar/lounge
FAQs
As well as seasons 1, 2, and 3 of Outlander, Hopetoun House has also been the filming location of various scenes in ITV’s Belgravia.
They sure did. Hopetoun has been one of the show’s locations throughout seasons 1, 2, and 3.
As well as being a location for the popular drama series, Outlander, Hopetoun House is also famous for being the home of the Marquess of Linlithgow and is one of the most prominent works by the architects, Sir William Bruce and William Adam.
It also houses the Hopetoun House Preservation Trust, which was founded in 1974.
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