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september 2019



From Melrose to Melbourne, how did we do in 2019?



It seems absolutely no time at all since we opened the house and gardens for the 2019 season and here we are in September already.


Once again, it has been a pleasure to welcome thousands of visitors to Mellerstain and the whole team are delighted at the feedback and comments that we have had from so many of you this year.


With this in mind, we are keen to share some of the lovely 5-star reviews that we have received from our visitors on TripAdvisor, Google and Facebook this season and to thank everyone for taking the time to write such useful, personal and constructive feedback. Not only is it wonderful to receive such detailed information on what you thought of your visit to Mellerstain, but it is also immensely helpful to fellow visitors and it provides us with a fascinating review of the 2019 season.


From Melrose to Melbourne, our visitors come from near and far and in your own words, here is what some of you thought of your visit this year.


A huge thanks to everyone and we hope you are able to join us this month before the end of the season.



TRIPADVISOR REVIEWS
Just dreamy

This place is a simply gorgeous and peaceful site in the country. You feel transported to another time - the grounds are beautiful and dip down to a lovely lake. The flowers are magnificent and the walks on the grounds and near the lake are restful and easy. We took the Willow Walk. There is also a Woodland Walk and a Lake Walk. The layout and vibe remind me of Powerscourt Estate and Gardens in Enniskerry, Ireland. The interior is also stunning with captivating decorative ceilings and splendid paintings and furniture. The lunch here was delicious and there is a cute gift shop we got some pretty wool berets. A must see if you like nature and beautiful spots! The highlight of our Borders holiday.
Visitor from Boston, USA, May 2019

Fantastic Adam house with brilliant guides
Wonderful house with guides that bring the history to life. One of the most enjoyable days out gardens are well kept and relaxing. Bumped into the Earl on our wander and great to see that he appreciates visitors. Well worth a visit there’s so much to learn from Dean and his colleagues eager to share their knowledge.
Visitor from Preston, June 2019


A tranquil haven to explore and enjoy
What a find! Having decided that we were in need of a long weekend in a dog friendly accommodation we opted to explore what was available in the Borders. The first place we saw was courtyard cottage and we looked no more when we saw that the Gardens and grounds were ours to explore during our off season stay. Glorious! The formal gardens created in 1910, the thatched tea house, woodland, lake, river and weirs strewn with magnificent trees and spring flowers are a sight to behold. Much thought has gone into the planning of what was a very comfortable, cosy and well-equipped cottage. Our large labradoodle Brook loved the adventure and his many walks! We intend to visit when the magnificent Willian and Robert Adam House is open and will be looking out for the Sculpture Trail.
Visitor from Blairgowrie, March 2019

The most perfect setting, and because it’s a bit further away you virtually have the place to yourself!
Mellerstain is situated in the most perfect setting imaginable, the views and grounds are wonderful, we had a. walk around the gardens, lake and up through the woodlands- 2.5k we only saw 2 people, this was BH Monday 22nd on a lovely sunny day. The house was also as just a few visiting so time to talk the guides that were fabulous and knew lots about the areas they were and was so passionate. Loved the ceilings that Mr Wedgwood visited (mmm think he copied) also the gallery to see the old toys, clothes, and shoes from 1700s, and from up there you can truly see for miles! We saw the 14th Earl, nice down to earth man on name terms and chatted with guides, I can understand why you would love to work there. Cafe small but good reasonably price food (only comment would be to supply a pot of tea rather than just a cup with a teabag). All in all, go, it’s not too busy and you will be made to feel like the Lord or Lady of the manor house, it’s not just a house it’s a place that was touched with beauty!
Visitor from Lancaster, April 2019

Beautiful Robert Adam architecture
We had a super day out here. We visited the gardens, woodland and water feature before going into the house...well worth seeing. The walk around the grounds is easy but a little steep in places. We saw wild deer running through the grounds...delightful. Inside the house we were able to visit many rooms...over 4 floors...absolutely exceptional throughout. The staff are really helpful, giving little insights into some of the china, paintings and wall coverings. They are clearly knowledgeable and love the property. All this for the princely sum of £9.50...a bargain! Please keep in mind they are only open Friday to Monday and do not open till 11am. This information is on the website but worth mentioning here. We will back.
Visitor from Bridlington, April 2019

Magnificent house and grounds
We had a House Tour yesterday on a very misty morning. The House still looked magnificent from the outside but on entering, every room is special, beautifully presented and full of character the furniture, paintings and ceilings are stunning and you can observe the Robert Adam theme in each room. The tour lasts for just under 2 hours and covers 4 floors and basement of the house. The mist cleared during that time and the views over the Scottish Borders countryside from each room are remarkable. There is so much to see in this House it is difficult to take everything in however we had a wonderful guide called Gill who was extremely knowledgeable in every aspect and made the tour a delight. We then had a walk around the grounds and the view of the house from beyond the lake is breath-taking. This is a 'must see' and a visit to the smart little cafe is also worthwhile.
Visitor from Melrose, April 2019

Fantastic day out
Visited the house and gardens today with two dogs and was very impressed with everything. It was quiet when we arrived so there was ample parking space right outside the main house. Bought a ticket to see the house and gardens which came to £20.00 which is reasonable. There are a number of ways to walk around the vast gardens and lake. The views were great. We saw deer’s and a kingfisher next to the lake. Very natural setting. There is a cafe on site which offers light lunches. Both ours were tasty and fresh. Well worth the money considering there is nothing else around to get food and they have a captured audience. All the staff we met were very friendly. The restaurant staff even put a bowl of water out for the dogs without even asking. In all we spent four hours there worth every minute. It’s not as busy as other places so you have time to enjoy the surroundings.
Visitor from Bishopthorpe, May 2019

Fabulous house and garden
Our second visit but this time in sunshine. Friendly, helpful room guides are dotted around the house. The garden is stunning, and we enjoyed the woodland walk and went around the lake before walking up to the thatched cottage and having tea in the cafe near the garden entrance. You can access the coffee shop without going into the house or garden.
Visitor from Leighton Buzzard, June 2019

Away from the crowds
Went late May and virtually had the place to ourselves. Wonderful example of Adam architecture and interior decoration surrounded by beautiful gardens and lovely vistas. Very informative guides who were only too happy to chat at length.
Visitor from Melbourne, Australia, May 2019



Beautiful
We visited on a very hot English Bank Holiday Sunday as we thought the house would be cool inside. It was and we loved it here. So many lovely things to admire and all volunteers were friendly and helpful. The Grand Hall at the top of the house has some fascinating pieces - my favourite was the 18th century recipe book containing lotions and potions for whatever ails you. Would have loved to have been able to read a lot more! The cafe ladies are friendly, and the food was well priced and good especially the soup. We enjoyed the grounds but, as it was so hot, didn't go as far as we would normally. Very reasonable entry price given how much there is to see. Well worth a visit.
Visitor from Durham, August 2019

Beautiful gardens and lovely café
We enjoyed exploring the beautiful gardens. A real gem of a place. Ghillie Cafe was lovely for a pre walk delicious cake and coffee. Gwynie and Hayley were so nice and welcoming. They gave our wee terrier Alfie water and biscuits. The others in our group were really impressed with the lovely house. 18 rooms with knowledgeable friendly guides. Dogs welcome in garden.
Visitor from Inverness, August 2019

Perfect peace What a joy!
So quiet and peaceful, especially after our home village of Seahouses with all its visitors! Beautiful gardens, the house is absolutely lovely, and a charming coffee/lunch stop to boot. All the staff at the house and cafe were pleasant and helpful without being intrusive. And just so nice not to have to fight through crowds of people!
Visitor from Seahouses, August 2019

Remember to look up first
Mellerstain House is a cracking example of how an architect can make or break a house by what he/she does or does not do. When you go into each room open to the public look up first before you do anything else. The ceilings are masterpieces in their own right and really does mark the room off before you view the rest of the room thereafter. It was made all the more enjoyable having conversed with members of the house who know far more than us mere mortals. The 'Hunt' Tapestry does have hidden meaning which I did uncover but do allow for far more time to cover the House, Gardens and other intrigues which are on offer. My wife and I made for 3 and 1/2 hours alone on exploration of the house, this was in no small portion to 'Ford', who was one of the volunteers who are the mainstay of Mellerstain.
Visitor from Oxford, July 2019

A beautiful house
Decided to visit on spur of moment great choice. A beautiful house with glorious gardens. Not too big and very accessible. The charming guides we met as we walked around were so knowledgeable and extremely friendly. What a pleasure. The whole estate was beautifully maintained, and the lady’s loos have to be one of the most spotless I've ever visited lol we had an excellent lunch in the cafe all in all a very good excursion and not overpriced.
Visitor from Cramlington, July 2019



Wonderful house ​
On arrival we started with a coffee as unfortunately the weather was too wet to walk round the gardens, but later we were able to get lovely views from the house. There is a lot to see here, over four floors, though the top floor is mainly used as an exhibition of various artefacts. There are good information cards in the rooms, and a few guides if you want to ask questions. Here they were not pushy, so we were able to wander undisturbed at our own pace, which we appreciated. So much to take in, and free to members of Historic Houses. A wonderful property.
Visitor from Yorkshire, June 2019


Glorious visit
A lovely walk around the extensive gardens with the rhododendrons in full bloom. Beautiful lake and very well-maintained walks. The house tour is well designed, and the house guides were interesting and informative. Visitor from Morpeth, June 2019

Enjoyable visit
We spent a wonderful day at this beautiful property. It is light, airy and has a very welcoming feel. All the guides we met were very friendly and informative. The house is lovely, the gardens well maintained and beautiful. Very well worth a visit.
Visitor from Gretna, June 2019

Really beautiful house
Really beautiful house and well-maintained gardens. Such a peaceful place with magnificent trees and lakeside walk. Staff are all so pleasant and helpful. I highly recommend a visit to this wonderful place, it's so relaxing and at peace with nature.
Visitor, May 2019

The highlight of our Borders holiday
What a wonderful house, beautifully preserved, unlike so many which suffered from late 19th/early 20th century "makeovers". The impression we were left with was of imposing grace and splendour, but without the ostentation of so many other "Great Houses". It was also nice to see so much of the house with rooms on display at every level. The gardens were lovely and the walk down to, and round, the lake was great - complete with two families of swans with cygnets; and what a view of the house as you walk back up the slope! As a bonus the room guides were really helpful, and when asked a question to which she didn't know the answer, one of them went and found out and tracked us down to give us the information. The cafe was also commendable for the quality of its food.
Visitor from Aberdeenshire, June 2019



​GOOGLE REVIEWS
This is the most interesting house in the area. So much to see, with Robert Adams architecture and many rooms open to the public. The gardens are lovely to with a lake walk, although because of recent torrential rain it was very muddy. There is also a secret cottage with its own pretty garden. Near the cafe is a play area for children. Well worth a visit.
Visitor, August 2019

Beautiful garden and an amazing house. Basically, if you go to Robert Adam and tell him to just get on with building you a house, this is what you get! every Adam feature you can imagine in one property. Decent lunch in the refreshment room as well. Visitor, August 2019 Beautiful gardens & beautiful house. Such interesting history & architect. Guides definitely know their history. Gave very intelligent history of the house.
Visitor, August 2019

The house has some marvellous examples of Robert Adam's work, the ceilings in particular are really beautiful. Lovely furniture, well displayed and some interesting art. The guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Particularly liked the library. Wheelchair access to the main rooms. Tearoom has a selection of homemade cakes and light snacks. The coffee was really good. The grounds are extensive with pleasant walks. We enjoyed our visit. Visitor, August 2019 Outstanding Country House filled with Adams furniture and design. A must.
Visitor, June 2019

FACEBOOK REVIEW
We had an amazing visit to Mellerstain House. It was so great we returned the next day. Definitely the most beautiful home I’ve visited, stunning artwork and rooms to view. There are many options of houses and castles to visit in and around this area but this home is a must see. I highly recommend it. Very friendly staff who are super knowledgeable and give a very warm welcome. A cafe and gift shop on site which has beautiful works of art, glassware, pottery and woollen items. There are walks around the property to enjoy and unwind. A visit in the gardens perfect for tiring out the kids and dogs, along with events the home puts on this really is one of the best places to visit. Great for the whole family. I wish I lived closer to visit it more, I’d never tire of seeing this beautiful portrait.
Visitor, May 2019


photo credit:Tara Grey Photography


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