Midhope Castle

Four kilometres west of South Queensferry is the Hopetoun estate, a set of preserved historical lands and buildings that include Midhope Castle. Originally built sometime in the 1400s, the surviving tower-house elements of the castle were constructed during the 16th century by its owner, Alexander Drummond. Although a relatively compact building, the Drummond family had a clear interest in the celestial. “per ardua ad astra” (To the stars through adversity), more commonly known as the Royal Air Force’s words, originally belonged to the Drummonds, while fragments of a ceiling painted like the night sky have also survived through time.

Midhope Castle is best known by an alternative name – Lallybroch. The home of fictional soldier Jamie Fraser in the television adaption of the Outlander novels, Midhope Castle appears frequently and has subsequently received a surge in popularity. Unfortunately, the interior of Midhope is wholly inaccessible, although visitors can buy a permit to tour the exterior.

How to get there

Hopetoun Estate is an easily accessible location by car, as it is only around a twenty-five-minute journey from Edinburgh city centre. However, it is quite far removed from public transport links, as the nearest train station, Dalmeny, lies 5 kilometres away. We recommend taking a taxi to and from the Estate because Hopetoun and its many features truly are worth the trip.