Dawyck House

Dawyck House is a Scottish mansion positioned on elevated ground near Drumelzier, surrounded by extensive botanical gardens and woodland areas. The property contains multiple sections connected by pathways, allowing visitors to move through different garden styles and tree collections across the estate.

The site originated as Dawyck Castle in the 13th century under the Veitch family, until 1691 when Sir James Nasmyth purchased it and transformed the property. This change marked the beginning of the estate's development into a residential house with gardens.

The property functions as a botanical destination where visitors walk among rare plant collections and formal gardens that reflect centuries of horticultural interest.

Comfortable shoes are recommended as exploring the grounds involves considerable walking along various pathways and terrain. Visiting during growing seasons offers the best experience as gardens display their plant collections and features most clearly.

The estate holds the distinction of introducing horse chestnut trees to Scotland around 1650, making it an early center for botanical experimentation. This introduction of non-native species reflected the owner's interest in bringing unusual plants to the Scottish landscape.