House of the Binns

An Edinburgh butter merchant, Thomas Dalyell, who had made his fortune at the court of King James VI and I in London, built the House of the Binns between 1612 and 1630. It has been the home of the Dalyell family ever since. The house is a good example of the early 17th-century transition in Scottish architecture from fortified stronghold to more spacious mansion.

Important moulded plaster ceilings in four of the main rooms were added in 1630. The house's fascinating collection of portraits, furniture and porcelain reveals the life and interests of one family through the centuries, including one of its celebrated characters, General Tam Dalyell, about whom there is a wealth of legends.

Outside the house the grounds provide panoramic views over the River Forth, a woodland walk and peacocks with character!

Additional Information:

  • Disabled access to lower floor only
  • Braille information sheets
  • Explanatory text in Dutch, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish
  • No dogs allowed in parkland
  • Picnic site
  • Parking

     

    Opening Times
    (2007 times)
    House:
    1st June to 30th September: Saturday to Wednesday 2.00pm - 5.00pm.Last Admission 4.30pm.

    Pre-booked tours in May by arrangement with the Property Manager.

    Parkland:
    All year daily 10.00am - 7.00pm; 1st Nov to 31st March, daily 10.00am - 4.00pm (last admission 30 minutes before closing time).

    Groups of 20 or more must always book in advance, please.

    Admission Charges
    (2007 prices)
    Adult £8.00; Concession £5.00; Family (2 adults + up to 4 children) £20.00: Family (1 parent + up to 4 children) £16.00.
    NTS members free.

    Directions
    Off A904, 15 miles west of Edinburgh.
    Show map of House of the Binns...

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