About
History
Craigsanquhar house is the former home of the Spens family of Lathallan whose ancestry can be traced back to king Robert III of Scotland and king Edward III of England.
The lands of Craigsanquhar belonged to the Spens family from 1385 to 1524 and were bought back in 1792 by Dr Nathaniel Spens. The small corner of cut stone to the left of the front lawn is all that remains of the original tower house which the early Spens returned to. The architect of the house as it stands today was William Burn, the architect of many distinguished buildings in Edinburgh. Nathanial’s initials surmount the entrance doorway and occur again in the carved figurine and flag-like windvane over the roof. The estate remained in the Spens family until 1925.
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Dr. Nathaniel Spens
Dr. Nathaniel Spens was the son of Thomas Spens, the 15th Laird of Lathallan, and his wife Janet (née Douglas). Dr Spens obtained his medical degree from the University of St Andrews and was admitted into the Incorporation of Surgeons of Edinburgh on 24 July 1751. After practicing as a surgeon in Edinburgh, he increasingly became more interested in the practice of physic, becoming a Licentiate of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh in 1773 and Fellow of that College the following year. He went on to become Treasurer of the College and its President in 1794.Dr Spens was a prominent member of the Royal Company of Archers (the Monarch’s bodyguard in Scotland). Amongst the prizes for which the Archers compete to this day is the Pagodas Medal, presented to the Company by James Spens, son of Nathaniel, in memory of his father. His yew bow, which was presented to the Royal Company by his son Dr Thomas Spens, is still on display in Archers’ Hall. His portrait by Sir Henry Raeburn (1756 – 1823) in the uniform of the Royal Company hangs in Archers’ Hall in Edinburgh. 150 copies were made in 1796, one of which hangs in Mansion House today.
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The archery butts
The archery butts to the northeast of the walled garden remain of this time and have nurtured the skill of several generations of his descendants. The Edinburgh Arrow is an annual archery competition held by the Royal Company of Archers. The Edinburgh arrow is the longest running annual archery competition in the recorded history of the sport. The competition takes its name from the silver arrow which is awarded for first prize. The Spens family won the silver arrow on the following occasions:
- 1756 Dr. Nathaniel Spens
- 1771 Dr Nathaniel Spens
- 1786 Dr. Nathaniel Spens
- 1793 Dr. Thomas Spens
- 1797 Dr. Thomas Spens
- 1830 Dr. Nathaniel Spens of Craigsanquhar
- 1832 Dr. Nathaniel Spens of Craigsanquhar
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Dr. Thomas Spens
Dr. Thomas Spens, the older brother of Nathaniel Spens was a keen archer and an avid golfer. Thomas Spens of Lathallan is noted as a participant in the original golf tournament held at the Royal & Ancient Golf club in St. Andrews.
Today
Craigsanquhar was changed from a private home to a luxury hotel and restaurant in 1999.
The estate today has transformed into a stunning retreat, blending history with modern luxury. Now a hotel, it offers elegant accommodations, including four charming villas with three bedrooms each, along with the thirteen rooms in the main house. Whether you are traveling to Scotland to explore the expansive history, golf on some of the most historic and well-known courses in the world, fly fish on the beautiful rivers, or experience a traditional Scottish wingshoot, Craigsanquhar is the perfect place for you. During your stay, dine at the estate’s renowned restaurant, named after Nathanial Spens. Nathanial’s Restaurant and Bar celebrates the freshest of flavors, drawing ingredients from the lush walled garden on the estate grounds.
Guests can explore the on-site shop, The Coach House, which offers beautiful wingshooting gear and Orvis essentials. During shooting season, the estate comes alive with traditional Scottish shoots across the rolling hills of the surrounding area. Walk the rolling hills of Scotland, guided by seasoned professionals and trained dogs. Guests partake in elevenses, the cherished custom of enjoying Sloe Gin at 11 O’clock, adding a dash of tradition to an unforgettable experience. We invite you to explore the rich history of the Craigsanquhar estate.
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