Experience wonder with a wander at Newhailes
Musselburgh’s stunning Newhailes Estate, currently being lovingly restored to its former glory, is the perfect place to connect with nature
THE places we love can be at the heart of our communities. These are so important to us – the destinations that we can enjoy together regularly, rather than planning occasional visits.
Newhailes Estate near Musselburgh is one of those. One of almost 100 properties in the care of the National Trust for Scotland, the 84 acres of historical landscape has a 17th-century Palladian villa at its heart.
It’s a great place to connect with nature on a wander -- the peaceful woodland walks, the glorious views across the Forth, or for fun and games, enjoy the little one’s excitement as they have their own adventure at the new Weehailes Playpark. “We know Newhailes is an important part of its community,” says Claire Grant, Operations Manager for Edinburgh. “Whether it’s people coming out for walks with their families or dogs or popping in for a coffee or an ice cream, there is a sense of Newhailes belonging to the people.”
The Palladian villa at the heart of the estate is being slowly restored by the Trust. When it came into its care, the building was in a state of some disrepair. The past few years have seen the double misfortune of a flood and a moth infestation but progress has been made.
As the conservation charity that preserves and maintains many of the country’s most loved places, the Trust has already restored the impressive ha-ha and doocot, as well as creating a new community garden and play park. Claire explains: “Now that the house has reopened, our general tour focuses on the social history of the house and tells the story of why it looks the way it does,” adds Claire. “We talk about the Dalrymple family and how the Trust came to acquire the house.”
What a history. With its strong connections to the Scottish Enlightenment, it was said to have one of the most impressive libraries in Europe. More recently it has become a stop on popular Outlander tours, having “played” a North Carolina Governor’s residence in season four.
The stables and courtyard have also been refurbished to create a visitor hub for Newhailes, which is wheelchair accessible.
“Through the visitor hub, visitors can orientate themselves around the estate,” adds Claire.
“It’s a perfect meeting point for the tours and, in addition, we have a lovely new café where visitors can enjoy spending more time in this special place.”
Newhailes is a great example of what the Trust has been carrying out for more than 90 years. The charity has saved, maintained, and shared many of the country’s most loved places, rich with history, heritage, nature and culture. Love the time you spend together. By joining the National Trust for Scotland, you can protect the places that matter to you as well as enjoy countless adventures and inspiring days out. Become a member at nts.org.uk