Hidden historical gem of literary elite

Sheltered in the shadow of Corstorphine Hill, it was constructed by William Adamson, an Edinburgh merchant who had taken possession of the land in 1542. He was killed at the Battle of Pinkie, but his family continued to own Craigcrook until 1659.

It was then sold and eventually fell into the hands of John Strachan, Writer to the Signet in 1689.

At his death, the castle was left for charitable purposes and the Craigcrook Mortification Trust was established – and still owns the property and grounds.

In 1815, it became the home of the lawyer and literary critic Lord Francis Jeffrey. Sir Walter Scott became a regular visitor, and Jeffrey had William Playfair remodel the main building and rebuild the east.

The castle was known during the 19th century for its literary soires; among the guests were Charles Dickets, Hans Christian Andersen, George Eliot and Lord Tennyson.