The much anticipated third season of The Traitors is well and truly underway, with much of the nation on tenterhooks waiting to see whether it will be the faithfuls or the traitors that reign supreme this year.
Ahead of the final next Friday, building conservation charity The Landmark Trust has unveiled their most traitor-worthy Scottish properties. With more than 200 properties, the charity’s mission is to save and sensitively restore historic buildings that are at risk of being lost forever and transforming them into enchanting holiday lets. Whether it’s hosting your own version of The Traitors within a resplendent 18th century country house, or skulking around the halls of a former ancient castle, there are unusual and fitting properties for any occasion.
Fairburn Tower
Muir of Ord, Ross-shire
Found within the idyllic Highland landscape, Fairburn Tower is a rare survival of the Scottish Renaissance period, having been built for Murdo Mackenzie, who was a favourite at the rich court of King James V and Mary of Guise. Just half an hour’s drive from the actual Traitors property, Ardross Castle, the tower was constructed in the mid-16th century, purpose built as both a residence and as a defence against any nearby enemies.
The tower is part of the Fairburn Estate, which expands over 1,000 hectares and is renowned for its fishing and country sports as well as an extensive history. There are many opportunities for walking on the building’s doorstep, with the surrounding woodland being an example of the alluvial forest system which is no longer seen much in Europe. This is a very popular Landmark Trust so be sure to book it whilst it still has availability.
Sleeps 4
Check in from £26.25 PPPN (4 nights)
For availability and booking, please visit here.
Rosslyn Castle
Roslin, near Edinburgh
Located just eight miles from the centre of Edinburgh, Rosslyn Castle was mainly built around 1450 and is famed for its historic castle, beautiful chapel and the surrounding valley full of romance. The castle itself dates back to the early 17th century, but is set within the ruins of fortifications that date back as far as the 1300s, making for a stay that is rich in history. The castle is the ancestral home of the St Clair family, and still contains many family portraits, photographs and belongings.
The property was first restored by The Landmark Trust in 1984 but underwent a further restoration and repair project last year, which provided an additional bedroom and spacious living space, as well as providing the property with renewable heating and hot water systems. There is no shortage of tranquil walks in the surrounding ancient woodland of Roslin Glen, with a number of footpaths that can lead guests down to the nearby river or to the Rosslyn Chapel at the top of the Glen.
Sleeps 8
Check in on 25th April for £30.50 PPPN (4 nights)
For availability and booking, please visit here.
Auchinleck House
Ochiltree, Ayrshire
Auchinleck House is an impressive 18th-century country house set within its own vast grounds, complete with fields, woodlands, and riverbanks. The spacious dining room, adorned with intricate plasterwork, adds a touch of elegance to every meal, whilst the library invites conversation and reflection – or a banishment ceremony! The goal of most walks here is to find the property’s ice-house and grotto.
The house was formerly owned by renowned biographer James Boswell at a time when inhabitants dressed for dinner and retired to the library to watch the sunset. The architecture of the property demonstrates the spirit of the Scottish Enlightenment period through its neo-Classical design combined with Baroque features.
Sleeps 13
Check in from £19.69 PPPN (4 nights)
For availability and booking, please visit here.
Castle of Park
Glenluce, Dumfries and Galloway
Situated on the edge of the small village of Glenluce, Castle of Park is a prime example of a true Scottish tower house that was first built in the late-16th century. Whilst the exterior of the house may be perceived as being somewhat modest, the interior provides a vivid insight into the life of a Jacobean estate owner, with spacious rooms to relax in.
The property is surrounded by farmland and is just a mile away from the coastline, with the option of a relaxing walk from the village to the beautiful Luce Bay. The breathtaking Galloway Forest is just an hour’s drive away, with a range of stunning walks to suit all abilities.
Sleeps 7
Check in from £19.86 PPPN (4 nights)
For availability and booking, please visit here.
Enjoy 15% off Landmark holidays starting in the next 45 days with the code LateBreaks4515 at checkout.
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