The peacocks and grazing cattle on the hotel's 20-acre grounds let you know that you've entered a different world, even though you're five minutes by car from the Royal Mile. Inside this 1687 mansion, baroque opulence reigns in the well-restored public rooms; there are plenty of antiques, rich fabrics, and gilt treasures to relax among as you sip a whisky. Guest rooms are individually decorated but mix antiques and the latest amenities, for total indulgence. James Thomson of the Witchery by the Castle runs the hotel, and his romantic Rhubarb restaurant carries through the hedonistic note with superb Scottish fare, such as seared turbot with langoustine crushed potatoes.
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