Visit one of Scotland’s finest stately homes
Mellerstain, one of Scotland’s great Georgian houses was begun in 1725 by Scottish
architect William Adam and completed in 1778 by his more famous son, Robert. The result is an outstanding example of 18th century Scottish architecture, and some say one of Robert Adam’s finest works.
The interior decoration is outstanding – the ceilings are especially worthy of note, having been preserved in the original Adam colours. The Library is a masterpiece of Classical decoration and colour – fine detailed plasterwork incorporating marble busts by Roubiliac.
There is a superb collection of paintings including works by Van Dyck, Gainsborough, Aikman and Ramsay with many lovely pieces of period furniture, china and embroidery collections. The portraits on show depict many members of the family.
The house stands in beautiful parkland and gardens with a playground,coffee shop and holiday cottages. A must-see is the Italian-styled terraced garden (laid out in 1910 by Sir Reginald Blomfied), designed to offer new perspectives as you descend to the rose gardens, great lawn and ornamental lake. The woodland includes many unusual trees.
New for 2017 is Borders Sculpture Park, a new venue for contemporary open-air sculpture within the grounds of Mellerstain House. XXX by acclaimed artist Steve Messam opens from Friday 14 July.
Mellerstain is approx 20 mins from Melrose & Kelso/1 hour from Edinburgh & Berwick-upon-Tweed
