Families can reinvent themselves as ancient Scottish royalty in a pink castle from the much-loved children’s programme Balamory, available to rent for £1,875 per night.
Fenton Tower in East Lothian, close to North Berwick and about 20 miles from Edinburgh, is known to most today as the home of Archie the inventor from the hit BBC show.
But the 20-acre castle, which has seven rooms, is rich in history. It was home to King James VI, who sought refuge there from rebels.
In 1650, the tower was sacked by Oliver Cromwell’s armies and stood as a ruin for nearly 350 years before its £2million restoration by Ian Simpson and John Macaskill.
Now a listed ancient monument, groups of 13 can stay at Fenton Tower for £1,875 per night. A listing on website Host Unusual states: ‘Reinvent yourself as ancient Scottish royalty, in a historic castle tower that looks over the majestic countryside of East Lothian.
“You will find yourself in the perfect position to view your kingdom from 360 degrees. There are panoramic views of rolling country and a variety of activities.
Fenton Tower was opened in 2002 after a stunning renovation. It offers luxury accommodation with five star standards for 13 people. With the castle’s own helicopter pad, arriving in style is easy with its private helicopter pad.
Families can reinvent themselves as ancient Scottish royalty in a pink castle from the much-loved children’s programme Balamory, available to rent for £1,875 per night
Fenton Tower in East Lothian, close to North Berwick and about 20 miles from Edinburgh, is known to most today as the home of Archie the inventor from the hit BBC show Balamory
Fenton Tower’s many bedrooms were used as Balamory, a BBC children’s show.
Its beautiful living area is rustic and charming. Guests can rent the tower for £1,875 per night
Now a listed ancient monument, groups of 13 can stay at Fenton Tower for £1,875 per night
The castle’s history dates back to the 11th Century. It is situated on 20 acres.
Fenton Tower has more than 7k square feet of living area. A lower floor that was used to house the castle vaults has been converted into a large dining area with curved ceilings and large wooden tables surrounded by tartan-covered seats.
As a living space, the upstairs great hall can be used. To reach five of the bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, two spiral staircases constructed from stone are found in the turrets.
According to the tower’s website, there has been a fortified tower on this site since the 11th Century, and was originally chosen because it afforded views in every direction – so that the occupants would have early warning of any attack.
The remains of one of Scotland’s earliest Christian chapels can be found north of Fenton Tower.
The current tower was built by Patrick Whytelaw in around 1550. However, in 1587 the tower’s ownership was transferred to Sir John Carmichael who was the Scottish Ambassador to Denmark and was responsible for maintaining the border between England and Scotland.
Fenton Tower has more than 7000 sq feet of living space. This is one of many breathtaking bedrooms in Fenton Tower.
Fenton Tower is around 20 miles away from Edinburgh. This bathroom has a contemporary shower and a standing tub.
Host Unusual has a listing that states, ‘Reinvent yourself as an ancient Scottish monarch in a historic castle tower overlooking the beautiful countryside of East Lothian.
Sir John Maxwell of Innerwick received the tower in 1631. Cromwell invaded Scotland in 1650 and Maxwell was unable to enjoy the castle.
James VI fled from a rebellion army in Fife and sought refuge at Fenton Tower with the Carmichaels. The king gave Fenton Tower to Sir Thomas Erskine upon Sir John’s passing. Later, he became Lord Dirleton, Viscount Fenton, and Earl of Kellie.
The tower was given to Sir John Maxwell, Innerwick in 1631. Cromwell’s 1650 invasion of Scotland meant that Maxwell did not enjoy the castle.
The land around the tower was given to Sir John Nisbet (1663), and to the Simpsons (mid-century). In 1998, their descendants began the restoration of the tower and it has been reopened to the public ever since.
Speaking to The New York Times, Mr Macaskill said: ‘It was wonderful for me to work on this, as these towers are such an interest of mine.
“But, there were a lot of things to understand before we could even get started. Then we had to figure out the contents and adapt them to our modern requirements. However, I was pleased that the team wanted it to be left as it was instead of putting a glass container on top.