The Public Rooms

Public Rooms

Borthwick Castle is a unique venue not only for weddings, but many major companies have found it an ideal location for conferences, meetings and relaxation. Clients include Shell UK, Volvo Cars, Scottish & Newcastle, Whyte & McKay, Hilton Hotels, Texaco, and many other corporations. Of course we also cater for family/clan gatherings and private parties.

The Public Rooms are available for hire individually or on an Exclusive Use basis. Please contact us for more details.

From Minstrel Gallery

The Great Hall

The Great Hall

With its large hooded fireplace, 40 feet high vaulted ceiling and minstrels' gallery, the Great Hall was described in the 17th century as "so large and high that a man on horseback could turn a spear in it with all the ease imaginable". This impressive Hall which is the first 'room' you enter in the castle is suited to many functions such as: banqueting/receptions, small conferences, in-house guests dining, entertainment, luncheons and teas. Guests can enjoy an aperitif sitting beside the roaring log fire and after dinner coffee can also be taken in this comfortable lounge area.

The maximum number that the Great Hall can accommodate is 75 - in any of the following permutations:

  • Sit-down banquet/reception (10 people per table)
  • Perimeter seating with dance floor and entertainment
  • Stand up reception

The State Room

Take the spiral staircase to the first level above the Great Hall and you will come to the State Room. This is a beautiful tapestry panelled room with another magnificent fireplace and elegant arched windows. Mary Queen of Scot's Chapel is set in a large arched alcove. She was a regular visitor to the Castle, and originally there was a connecting corridor from her bedchamber to this chapel. The State Room is used as a lounge by guests and is also suitable for: Conferences/board meetings, receptions, wedding ceremonies and teas.

The maximum number that the State Room can accommodate is 75, standing or seated.

The State Room

The Garrison

The Garrison

Located at the top of the castle, up another spiral staircase, the Garrison was used by Lord Borthwick's soldiers centuries ago and with its vaulted ceiling and superb views it is easy to imagine yourself back in medieval times. The Garrison is often used for wedding ceremonies and can accommodate 75, standing or seated.

Because the only access to the Garrison and State Rooms is by a spiral staircase of 80 steps (from the Great Hall to the Garrison), there are certain restrictions on food and beverages that can be served. Generally we are happy to provide canapes and drinks, but if you are looking for a more substantial meal please contact us.

The Grounds

Weather permitting; the gardens are available for receptions, teas and croquet.

External Services

Our Hotel Management will be happy to provide details for you or your company for any of the following services:

Entertainment

Pipers, Pipe Bands, Harpists, Highland Dancers, Scottish Dancers, Vocalists, Musicians, Storytellers, Ghosts - Historical, Famous Characters - Historical, Master of Ceremonies, Ceilidh Bands, Jazz Bands, Reggae Bands, Mystery Weekend and Clansmen.

Services

Florists, Photographers, Formal and Highland Wear

Audio-Visual Equipment

All Audio-Visual Equipment is provided by an outside source. The Management will be happy to assist you in securing the equipment you need, with a minimum of 48 hours notice.

Sporting Activities

Golf, Game Shooting (in season), Clay Pigeon Shooting, Fishing, Horse Riding.

The Gatehouse
The Garden

Copyright Borthwick Castle Hotel 2008
site design : the blackcat company