SCHLOSS Roxburghe is a world-class luxury hotel and championship golf resort located near Kelso in the heart of the Scottish Borders. Part of the Destination by Hyatt collection, this historic estate spans over 300 acres and offers a refined blend of 12th-century heritage and contemporary elegance following its extensive 2022 renovation. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn about the resort’s diverse accommodation options—ranging from manor house suites to private self-catering cottages—the award-winning Schloss Spa, the renowned Dave Thomas-designed golf course, and the “estate-to-plate” culinary philosophy that defines its restaurants. Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a golf break, or a sophisticated wedding, SCHLOSS Roxburghe provides a unique countryside escape just over an hour from both Edinburgh and Newcastle.
Historic Manor House Elegance
The heart of the resort is the historic manor house, which was formerly owned by the Duke of Roxburghe. This section of the hotel retains its aristocratic charm with high ceilings, ornate fireplaces, and traditional Scottish décor that pays homage to the estate’s long-standing heritage.
The manor house contains 20 uniquely designed bedrooms and suites, each offering a distinct character. Guests staying here can enjoy direct access to the Bar 1745 and the State Room Lounge, making it the ideal choice for those who appreciate classic luxury and historical architecture.
Contemporary Estate House Extension
In late 2022, the resort unveiled the Estate House, a modern extension that added 58 contemporary rooms and suites to the property. This expansion was designed to harmonize with the original manor while offering floor-to-ceiling windows and state-of-the-art amenities.
These rooms are particularly popular for their “Park View” options, which offer sweeping vistas of the manicured grounds. The interior design utilizes natural materials and soft color palettes to create a calming, minimalist environment that contrasts beautifully with the traditional manor.
Private Luxury Scottish Cottages
For guests seeking more privacy or traveling in larger groups, SCHLOSS Roxburghe offers 51 luxurious self-catering cottages. These two-bedroom units are scattered across the estate, providing a “home-away-from-home” experience with fully equipped kitchens and private terraces.
The cottages are divided into specialized categories, such as the Golf Cottages which overlook the fairways and the Sauna Cottages which include private wellness facilities. This variety ensures that families and groups have tailored options for longer stays or sporting retreats.
Championship Golf Course Details
The Roxburghe Championship Golf Course is the only one of its kind in the Scottish Borders and was designed by the internationally renowned architect Dave Thomas. Opened in 1997, the course is a par-72, 7,111-yard layout that makes expert use of the natural elevations and woodland.
The signature hole is the par-5 “The Viaduct,” where the tee box sits at an elevated position and the green is framed by the historic Roxburgh Viaduct. The course is free-draining and maintained to USGA standards, ensuring it remains playable and challenging throughout the year.
State-of-the-Art Golf Facilities
In addition to the main course, the resort has invested heavily in practice infrastructure to support golfers of all levels. The property features a Toptracer driving range with eight covered bays, allowing players to receive instant data feedback on their swing and ball flight.
The clubhouse serves as the central hub for the golf business, featuring a dedicated pro shop and a casual dining area. Professional tuition is available from on-site PGA professionals, and the facility frequently hosts corporate events and society golf days.
Award-Winning Schloss Spa
The Schloss Spa is a 600-square-meter sanctuary that was recently named one of the best in Scotland by Condé Nast Traveller. It features a heated outdoor infinity pool that allows guests to swim year-round while taking in the views of the estate gardens and surrounding forests.
Inside the spa, visitors can find a dry Finnish embedded sauna, an aroma sauna, and a cold-water plunge pool designed for thermal contrast therapy. A full menu of holistic treatments, including hot stone massages and revitalising facials, is delivered by expert therapists using premium skincare products.
Estate-to-Plate Dining Philosophy
The resort follows a strict “estate-to-plate” culinary philosophy, sourcing as many ingredients as possible from its own kitchen gardens and local Borders producers. This commitment to provenance ensures that the menus change seasonally to reflect the freshest available produce.
Executive Head Chef Dan Ashmore oversees the culinary operations, focusing on modern Scottish “bistronomy.” By growing vegetables on-site and utilizing the estate’s fishing grounds, the kitchen team creates dishes that are both sustainable and deeply rooted in the local landscape.
Sunlaws Fine Dining Restaurant
Sunlaws is the flagship fine dining destination at SCHLOSS Roxburghe, offering an indulgent tasting menu experience. The restaurant is open from Wednesday to Sunday and provides an intimate atmosphere for celebrating special occasions or exploring complex culinary techniques.
The dishes at Sunlaws are designed to push boundaries while celebrating Scottish heritage, often featuring local game, fresh seafood, and heirloom vegetables. The extensive wine list and professional sommelier service complement the high-end dining experience.
Charlie’s Scottish Bistronomy
Charlie’s offers a more relaxed dining alternative, blending traditional French flair with modern Scottish twists. It serves as the primary location for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, providing a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere for all resort guests.
The restaurant features an Al Fresco terrace where guests can enjoy wood-fired pizzas and smoked meats during the warmer months. Charlie’s is particularly known for its “Scottish Bistronomy” approach, making high-quality dining accessible in a casual setting.
Bar 1745 and Whiskies
Named after the year Bonnie Prince Charlie stayed at the manor, Bar 1745 is a haven for whisky enthusiasts. The walls are lined with over 250 different labels, ranging from local Border malts to rare and aged selections from across the Highlands and Islands.
The bar features a traditional library aesthetic with deep leather chairs and roaring fireplaces. It is the perfect location for a pre-dinner cocktail or a guided whisky tasting session led by the resort’s knowledgeable bar staff.
Outdoor Sporting Pursuits
As a traditional Scottish estate, SCHLOSS Roxburghe offers a wide array of country sports beyond golf. The Country Sports Centre provides opportunities for clay pigeon shooting, archery, and roe deer stalking under the guidance of experienced instructors.
The estate also boasts 2.5 miles of private fishing on the River Teviot and a dedicated Trout Loch. The Fly Fishing Centre on-site offers tuition for beginners and advanced casting clinics for those looking to land Atlantic Salmon or Brown Trout in the famous River Tweed system.
Weddings and Grand Events
With a capacity for up to 300 guests, the resort is a premier venue for weddings and corporate banquets. The Teviot Suite is a purpose-built event space featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and a private terrace, providing a stunning backdrop for ceremonies.
For more intimate gatherings, the Victorian Conservatory offers a light-filled setting overlooking the parkland. The estate also allows for marquee setups on the lawns, giving couples the flexibility to host large-scale outdoor celebrations with the historic castle as a backdrop.
Sustainability and Eco-Initiatives
SCHLOSS Roxburghe incorporates sustainability into its daily operations through the Plan A initiative (as part of the wider management goals). This includes the reduction of single-use plastics and the implementation of energy-efficient heating systems throughout the new Estate House.
The resort’s commitment to the environment extends to its educational programs. The Kio Kids’ Club teaches younger guests about local wildlife, water cycles, and sustainable farming practices, ensuring that the next generation understands the importance of protecting the Scottish Borders’ natural beauty.
Architectural Highlights
Schloss Roxburghe showcases classic Georgian architecture with symmetrical facades, tall sash windows, and elegant proportions typical of 18th-century Scottish country houses. The mansion’s pale stone exterior contrasts beautifully against the rolling green lawns and mature woodlands of the Roxburghe Estate. Interior features include ornate plasterwork ceilings, period fireplaces, and grand staircases that evoke timeless grandeur.
Restoration efforts maintained original elements like oak paneling and crystal chandeliers while incorporating subtle modern updates for comfort. The layout centers around a welcoming entrance hall leading to reception areas adorned with family portraits and antiques. Surrounding gardens, designed in formal layouts with manicured hedges, enhance the architectural symmetry.
Standout features include the drawing rooms with hand-painted wallpapers and the library stocked with rare books, offering guests a glimpse into aristocratic living. These elements differentiate Schloss Roxburghe from more commercialized castle hotels, emphasizing authenticity and restraint.
Key Interior Spaces
The Great Hall serves as a social hub with vaulted ceilings and a massive stone fireplace, ideal for evening gatherings. Adjoining lounges feature tartan accents and leather armchairs, nodding to Scottish heritage. Upstairs corridors display tapestries and oil paintings from the Roxburghe collection.
Estate and Grounds Overview
The Roxburghe Estate spans thousands of acres in the heart of the Scottish Borders, encompassing farmland, forests, and the River Tweed. Schloss Roxburghe sits centrally, providing panoramic views of the Cheviot Hills and lush valleys. Guests can wander extensive gardens featuring rose parterres, herb beds, and seasonal blooms.
Woodland trails offer peaceful walks amid ancient oaks and native wildlife, including red squirrels and birds of prey. The estate supports sustainable land management, with organic farming practices visible in surrounding fields. This vast setting creates a sense of seclusion yet accessibility.
Practical exploration includes marked paths for all fitness levels, from gentle riverside strolls to more challenging hill climbs. Benches and picnic spots encourage leisurely enjoyment of the natural beauty that defines the region.
Golf Course Details
Schloss Roxburghe boasts an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Dave Thomas, opened in 1997 and stretching over 6,800 yards from the back tees. Par 72, it features undulating fairways, strategic bunkers, and fast greens set against the River Tweed backdrop. The signature 10th hole, a par-3 over water, challenges even seasoned players.
Course conditions rank among Scotland’s finest, with bentgrass greens and ryegrass fairways maintained year-round. Practice facilities include a driving range, putting green, and short-game area. PGA professionals offer lessons tailored to all skill levels.
Membership and green fees make it accessible for hotel guests, with packages bundling play and tuition. The pro shop stocks top brands like Titleist and Callaway, plus Roxburghe-branded apparel. Annual tournaments attract amateurs and pros alike.
Signature Holes Breakdown
Hole 1 introduces players with a gentle par-4 dogleg right, demanding precise drives. The 12th, a long par-5, rewards bold play over heather-lined fairways. Finishing at the 18th, a scenic par-4, provides a memorable close with Tweed views.
Spa and Wellness Facilities
The Roxburghe Spa spans 10,000 square feet, featuring a thermal suite with hydrotherapy pool, saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation lounges. Treatments draw on Scottish botanicals like heather and seaweed, with signature rituals such as the Roxburghe Revive massage. Open daily, it accommodates couples, groups, and solo visitors.
State-of-the-art gym equipment supports fitness routines, complemented by yoga and pilates classes in a light-filled studio. Outdoor vitality pool and zen garden extend wellness into nature. Pre-booked therapies ensure personalized experiences.
Spa days start at affordable packages, including lunch and full facility access. Seasonal offerings, like winter warmers with hot stone therapies, rotate to match Borders weather.
Dining Experiences
Schloss Roxburghe offers three distinct dining venues, led by fine-dining restaurant The Great Hall with one AA Rosette. Menus emphasize estate-reared game, local seafood, and foraged ingredients, paired with an extensive wine list. Dress code is smart casual, with tasting menus available Thursday to Sunday.
Laidlaw’s brasserie provides relaxed all-day dining using seasonal produce, including afternoon tea with scones and clotted cream. The Hunting Lodge bar serves craft cocktails and bar snacks amid tartan decor. Private dining in historic rooms caters to events.
Culinary highlights include Roxburghe venison and Tweed salmon, sourced within miles. Vegan and gluten-free options abound, crafted by head chef with Michelin experience.
Menu Specialties
Signature dishes feature slow-cooked Borders lamb shoulder and cranachan desserts. Wine flights pair regional Scotch whiskies with cheeses. Sunday roasts draw locals weekly.
Accommodation Options
Schloss Roxburghe provides 22 individually designed bedrooms and suites in the main castle, blending period charm with luxury amenities like Hypnos beds and Molton Brown toiletries. Castle rooms overlook gardens or golf course, starting from king-size doubles. Suites offer sitting areas and fireplaces for indulgent stays.
Estate cottages, sleeping 2-10, provide self-catering privacy amid woodlands, ideal for families or groups. Features include log fires, full kitchens, and hot tubs. All accommodations feature Nespresso machines and tartan throws.
Upgrades include dog-friendly rooms and accessible options on ground floors. Check-in from 3pm ensures ample settling time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SCHLOSS Roxburghe pet-friendly?
Yes, the resort is highly accommodating to dogs. Specific rooms in the Courtyard and many of the self-catering cottages are designated as dog-friendly, and the estate offers miles of walking trails suitable for pets.
Do I need to be a hotel guest to play golf?
No, the Roxburghe Championship Golf Course is open to the general public, though hotel guests may receive preferential tee times and discounted rates. It is recommended to book your tee time online in advance.
Is there a dress code for the restaurants?
While Charlie’s is casual, Sunlaws Fine Dining suggests a smart-casual dress code. Most guests choose to dress up slightly for the evening tasting menus, though formal wear is not strictly required.
Can children use the spa and pool?
Yes, children are welcome in the outdoor infinity pool during dedicated family swim times. These hours are typically scheduled in the morning and late afternoon to ensure a tranquil environment for all guests.
What is the best way to travel from Edinburgh?
The most convenient way is by car, which takes approximately 75 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the Borders Railway from Edinburgh Waverley to Tweedbank and arrange a 20-minute taxi to the resort.
Are there any historical sites nearby?
Yes, the resort is located just 15 minutes from Floors Castle, the largest inhabited castle in Scotland. Other nearby attractions include the ruined Kelso Abbey, Smailholm Tower, and Jedburgh Abbey.
Does the resort offer electric vehicle charging?
Yes, SCHLOSS Roxburghe provides EV charging stations for guests. It is advisable to notify the reception in advance if you require a charging point during your stay to ensure availability.
What is included in a cottage stay?
Cottage stays are generally self-catering, but they often include a daily breakfast credit that can be used at the Estate Market. Guests in cottages also have access to the resort’s facilities, though spa access may require a day pass.
Final Thoughts
SCHLOSS Roxburghe enters 2026 as a definitive leader in the UK’s luxury resort sector, having successfully transitioned from a historic manor to a comprehensive 5-star destination. The 2025 accolades—including being named Scotland’s Best Hotel Spa—underscore the resort’s commitment to world-class wellness, while the strategic management of its championship golf course has seen a 40% growth in performance, solidifying its place on the international stage.
By balancing its deep 12th-century roots with the modern demands of the Destination by Hyatt brand, the estate offers an experience that is both authentic and innovative. Whether it is through the “estate-to-plate” dining at Sunlaws, the expanded collection of private saunas within the luxury cottages, or the high-tech Toptracer driving range, the resort provides a versatile sanctuary for every type of traveler. As the Scottish Borders continue to rise as a premier tourism hub, SCHLOSS Roxburghe remains its undisputed crown jewel, promising a legacy of “quiet grandeur” for years to come.
Read More on North England News