Winton Castle, East Lothian

Simon grew up close by Winton Castle so knows not only the castle & estate, but also the surrounding area of East Lothian very well indeed. The Castle itself has the charm of a historic family home - it feels lived in (because it is) but the collection of artworks and historic objects in each room is fascinating, from portraits of ancestors to Van Dyke’s famous portrait of King Charles I.

The gardens are also gorgeous with a mix of landscaped terraces and wild walks in the woods, together with a miniature loch (or you might call it a lochan). However my very favourite thing about Winton is the staff, who are the kindest and most helpful while remaining professional, discreet and on the ball. If you ask, they can even let you access the very top of the castle’s tower!