Greywalls Hotel & Chez Roux

Greywalls began in 1901 as a holiday home for the Honorable Alfred Lyttelton, who loved golf and wanted a house close to Muirfield’s 18th green. At the time, it was simply a private retreat by the sea, used for rest, sport, and time with friends. In 1905, it was sold to William James, who made changes to suit family life and added more space over the years, including lodges and extra wings.

As decades passed, the house became known for its peaceful setting and well-kept gardens. What started as a personal getaway slowly took on a wider role. With its location beside one of Scotland’s most famous golf courses and its calm coastal surroundings, Greywalls naturally drew interest beyond its owners’ circle. Over time, it evolved from a private residence into a place where travelers could stay and experience the same quiet atmosphere that first drew people here more than a century ago.

Greywalls was designed in 1901 by Sir Edwin Lutyens, using warm honey-colored stone from nearby Rattlebags Quarry and Danish pantiles on the roof. The house feels calm and welcoming, blending quietly with the Scottish coast. Over the years, small additions like the gate lodges and Nursery Wing were added, all keeping the same style, so the house still feels like a single, connected home.

The gardens within walled enclosures were designed to feel part of the house. Paths and green spaces create quiet corners to explore, making the outdoors feel as thoughtful as the rooms inside. Guests can choose from historic rooms in the main house, cozy Cottage Rooms tucked into the garden walls, or the self-contained Colonel’s House just beyond the gates, which offers its own terrace, garden, and flexible bedrooms for groups or families. Each space keeps the estate’s character while giving visitors a comfortable, private stay.

Greywalls is home to its own Chez Roux restaurant, offering refined yet welcoming fine dining for both hotel guests and visitors. Named after the late, world-renowned chef Albert Roux, who was the first UK chef to earn three Michelin stars, Chez Roux serves Scottish ingredients with a French twist, reflecting the same attention to quality and detail for which Roux was famous.

The restaurant is spread across four individually decorated rooms, including the Whisky Room and Garden Room, so you can pick a space that suits your mood or occasion. The menu combines seasonal and classic dishes, from wild mushroom tagliatelle and roasted squash salad to braised pork belly, fish of the day, and Scotch steak. On weekends, a traditional roast lunch is served, while desserts like sticky toffee pudding or artisan cheeses round off the meal. Afternoon Tea offers a quiet way to enjoy the gardens, and any dietary needs can be accommodated on request.

Greywalls is a lovely country house wedding venue set in its gardens and countryside near Gullane. Couples can hold both their ceremony and reception here. Inside, the bright Sun Room offers views over the gardens and an intimate space for vows. If you prefer outdoors, the gardens themselves provide a naturally romantic backdrop surrounded by greenery. The team works with you on details like flowers and music so the day feels personal and just right.

Two wedding packages are available to help you plan the celebration. For couples who want privacy and space, Greywalls offers exclusive use of the whole house and gardens. That means the hotel and its rooms are yours for the day, and your guests can stay nearby, enjoy the walled gardens, and celebrate together. You can use elegant indoor rooms for dining, or set up a marquee in the gardens for larger gatherings, making it a flexible choice for weddings of different sizes.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Staying at Greywalls means more than just a quiet getaway, there’s plenty to explore nearby. For a taste of Scotland, guests can join the Gin & Whisky Tour, traveling through scenic East Lothian to visit Glenkinchie Distillery for a whisky tasting and NB Gin Distillery for gin.

History lovers can enjoy local history tours, exploring places like Tantallon Castle, Rosslyn Chapel, and Dirleton Castle, with a guide sharing stories along the way. Edinburgh tours offer a relaxed way to see the city’s highlights, including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Yacht Britannia, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and hidden gems along the Royal Mile.

Golfers are especially well served. Greywalls sits right on the edge of Muirfield, one of the world’s oldest courses, and is close to championship links at Gullane, Luffness, North Berwick, Archerfield, and the Renaissance Club. From coastal drives to historic sites and world-class golf, Greywalls offers a mix of experiences that showcase the best of East Lothian.

Greywalls isn’t just for weddings or golf trips, it’s also a great spot for celebrations, whether private or corporate. Birthdays, anniversaries, or family gatherings can be hosted in a choice of rooms, from the bright and airy Sun Room to the more intimate Original Dining Room. For business meetings or board dinners, the Whisky Room offers a quiet, refined space, while the Main Dining Room and Library Lounge can accommodate larger groups comfortably. It offers 24-hour delegate packages that include meeting room hire, coffee breaks, lunch, dinner, and overnight accommodation. Whether it’s a family milestone, a team retreat, or a private dinner, Greywalls provides flexible spaces and attentive service to make any celebration feel special.