INTRODUCING DABTON HOUSE: A HISTORIC SCOTTISH COUNTRY HOUSE TRANSFORMED INTO ELEGANT PRIVATE HIRE ACCOMMODATION

Following an extensive and sensitive renovation project, completed in Summer 2023, the Buccleuch Estates is delighted to unveil Dabton House, a Buccleuch family home located within the Queensberry Estate, ten minutes from Drumlanrig Castle. The house is now available for ‘private hire’ bookings.

With a welcoming blend of country house elegance and modern hospitality, Dabton is the perfect location for your grand gathering or simply spending time together with friends and family. Boasting eleven exquisitely appointed ensuite bedrooms and ample reception areas, contemporary design blends with Dabton’s beautiful historic features throughout the renovated property, while the four-acre formal garden sits amid 27 acres of tranquil mixed woodland.

With its own kitchen garden and access to Scotland’s finest natural ingredients, Dabton House is perfectly situated for food lovers. Through established links with local suppliers and a roster of talented chefs, every need can be catered for during your stay.

Dabton was designed in 1820 by the popular architect William Atkinson, following a commission by Walter Montagu Douglas Scott, the 5th Duke of Buccleuch. The house historically served as the home of the Queensberry Estate’s factor until, in the 1980s, it was refurbished by the 10th Duke and Duchess of Buccleuch as a wonderful family home for themselves and their four children, including Walter Dalkeith. In this new chapter, the Earl and Countess of Dalkeith, Walter and Elizabeth, have been instrumental in leading the recent renovations of Dabton House, which they completed in August 2023. The family continues to use the house today and it retains the ambience of a family home.

Meticulously restored to its former glory, the house incorporates modern comforts and amenities to meet the discerning needs of today’s guests. The blending of old-world charm and contemporary sophistication provides an unmatched setting for an array of occasions. Its amenities include a sauna, a well appointed treatment room, heated kennels, grass tennis court and catering kitchen.

“Steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, Dabton House presents a truly enchanting retreat for guests seeking a luxurious escape,” said Alasdair Knight, General Manager of Dabton House. “Whether it’s hosting grand celebrations, weddings, sporting parties, corporate gatherings, or simply cherishing precious moments with family members, Dabton House is the perfect choice.”

The picturesque Queensberry Estate serves as a stunning backdrop for Dabton House, and is home to miles of way-marked walking, cycling and mountain biking routes, with bike and e-bike hire available on site. Alternatively, book a day’s fishing, try your hand at simulated game shooting, or put your party through its paces with Scottish Assault Courses or a trip to the adventure playground if they are on the younger side. For those more focused on cultural exploration, book a tour of Drumlanrig Castle, explore the magnificent gardens and stableyard, featuring local independent businesses and craftspeople, before indulging at the castle tearoom. The wider region is rich in art and cultural experiences such as the Robert Burns Heritage Trail, Crawick Multiverse land art installation, Kirkudbright Arts & Crafts trail, and the esteemed Wigtown Book Festival.

Whether you are planning a family holiday, a celebration with friends, a wedding, a sporting adventure, or corporate retreat, Dabton House welcomes enquiries for all private gatherings. For further information and booking enquiries please visit www.dabtonhouse.co.uk

Phot credit: Walter Dalkeith