THE STORY OF THE GILMERTON ESTATE
Grounded in history, with an eye to the future
Gilmerton House has been home to the Kinloch family since Sir Francis Kinloch acquired the estate in 1655. Almost four centuries later, the house remains in the care of the Kinloch family, who have opened its doors to guests while continuing to invest in its future – from sustainable heating to the ongoing restoration of the walled garden.
THE HISTORY
Four centuries in the making
The rich history of the Kinloch family is reflected in the historical features of the house and gardens, which have been lovingly maintained and restored over time. Walking through Gilmerton House, you’ll find original Victorian architecture, antiques, and family portraits lining the walls. Perhaps the most historic room is the Music Room, which features an exquisite Rococo ceiling, grand bookcases, and oak wood-panelled walls.
THE GARDENS
Cultivated over generations
The six-acre lawn guests now wander across was previously grazed by cattle, and the surrounding grounds have since transformed over generations into the gardens you see today.
More recent changes reflect how the estate is used today. The Rose Garden is carefully tended for guests to enjoy; The Laundry House – originally built in 1804 – has been carefully restored into a beautiful gathering space with a private courtyard; a private driving range looks out across the manicured lawn; and an outdoor kitchen, with its wood-fired pizza oven and fire table, has been hand-crafted for al fresco dining.
“From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the elegance and charm of this historic property. The manor’s beautiful architecture, combined with its serene surroundings, provided the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.”
— Norman H, 2025
SUSTAINABILITY
Maintaining a green ethos
Sir David’s commitment to sustainability runs deep: Gilmerton House has been heated by a biomass boiler for over 35 years, burning wood collected from the wider estate and local farms. In 2017, this green ethos was recognised with the Green Tourism Gold Award.
Hidden away on the estate, you may come across the historic walled garden, originally built in the 1730s to provide the family with vegetables, fruit and flowers. Today the garden is home to a local charity, GrowingMatters, who are working to bring the kitchen garden back to life, creating a beautiful, productive space where people and plants can flourish.