From medieval estate to noble residence
The earliest records of Melville date back to 1155, when the land was owned by Anglo-Norman Baron Galfrid de Malle. The estate remained within his family until 1371, when ownership passed to Sir John Ross, whose descendants would play a key role in the Castle’s story for generations to come.
In 1762, Melville entered a new era when it was purchased by Sir David Rannie, a wealthy merchant who had amassed his fortune through trade with the East India Company. Following his death, the estate passed indirectly to Henry Dundas, a powerful and ambitious lawyer and politician, after his marriage to Rannie’s young daughter Elizabeth. Dundas would later become the first Viscount Melville and one of the most influential figures in Britain.
Determined to create a residence worthy of his status, Dundas commissioned renowned Scottish architect James Playfair to design a new castle. In 1786, the original medieval structure was demolished and replaced with an elegant building designed for grand entertaining, complete with a striking entrance hall and sweeping staircase. Much of the Castle’s current architectural drama dates from this ambitious rebuild.
Mary Queen of Scots and the story of David Rizzio
Few figures loom as large in Melville Castle’s history as Mary Queen of Scots. Crowned Queen of Scotland at just six days old following the death of her father, James V, Mary spent much of her early life in France before returning to Scotland as a young widow in 1561.
In 1565, Mary married her cousin Lord Darnley, a decision that proved deeply divisive. During this turbulent period, Melville Castle became a favoured retreat for the Queen, particularly when she was in the company of her Italian secretary and trusted confidant, David Rizzio.
Rizzio took apartments within the Castle, and local legend suggests he planted a Spanish Chestnut tree as a symbol of his affection for Mary and later planted five oak trees along the drive. Remarkably, these trees still stand today, living witnesses to a story of loyalty, affection and intrigue that unfolded more than 450 years ago.
As political tensions grew, Protestant nobles convinced Lord Darnley that Rizzio was the Queen’s lover. The resulting conspiracy led to Rizzio’s brutal murder in front of a pregnant Mary – a moment that marked one of the most tragic chapters of her life. While historians continue to debate the true nature of their relationship, the events tied to Melville Castle remain among the most compelling in Scottish history.
Royal visits and grand occasions
Melville Castle’s status as a noble residence continued well into the 19th century. In 1828, King George IV visited the Castle during his stay in Scotland, hosted by Lord Melville himself. A lavish banquet was held in the King’s honour, said to be so abundant that estate workers and local people were also fed, with food left over for the poor. Among the distinguished guests was Sir Walter Scott, adding literary prestige to the occasion.
The Castle also welcomed Queen Victoria during her first tour of Scotland in 1842, further enhancing its royal associations. In anticipation of royal visits, a special carriageway was created between Dalkeith Palace and Melville Castle—a route that can still be traced today.
Decline, restoration and a new Life
Following the Second World War, the Dundas family moved out of the Castle, and it was leased as an army rehabilitation centre before later becoming a hotel. Years of neglect eventually led to its closure and deterioration.
A turning point came in 1993 when the Hay Trust acquired Melville Castle and embarked on a meticulous ten-year restoration. During this period, original elements of the old castle were uncovered, including the remains of a mysterious staircase. Unsurprisingly, tales of ghostly apparitions also emerged, with reports of a female spirit seen in the Library Bar and first-floor bedroom, believed by some to be Mary Queen of Scots, and by others, Elizabeth Rannie, the Castle’s young mistress.
In June 2003, Melville Castle reopened as a fully restored four-star hotel, its historic grandeur carefully preserved and thoughtfully enhanced for modern guests.
Melville Castle Today
Today, Melville Castle is owned by the Hay Trust and proudly operated by independent hotel group, Original Collection. Each space within the Castle reflects its layered history, from stately public rooms to indulgent bedrooms designed for rest and retreat. Guests are invited not only to stay, but to experience the stories woven into the walls, the grounds and the centuries-old trees that still line the drive.
Just minutes from the capital and surrounded by peaceful countryside, Melville Castle is an exceptional base for exploring Edinburgh and beyond. Whether you are tracing the footsteps of royalty, intrigued by whispers of the supernatural, or simply seeking an elegant escape, Melville Castle is a destination in its own right and offers its guests a truly original stay. Browse our offers and discover our rooms & suites.