| Hopetoun House |

Finding beauty where you live is one of my favourite things to do. Going away on holiday is lovely, but sometimes a short break - even for a day, in the vicinity of where you live is fun too. So, we all packed into the car and drove to the outskirts of Edinburgh and visited Hopetoun House - one of Scotland's finest stately homes. If you're a fan of the drama show Outlander, you may or may not recognise this place as many of the scenes in the 1st & 2nd seasons were shot here. You can also drive past Midhope Castle or the fictional 'Lallybroch' as it's known in Outlander, where the family of Jamie Fraser live. It dates back to the 15th century, the outside is intact more or less but, the castle is actually derelict inside. We decided to skip that since we have younger children who wouldn't find it the least bit interesting since they don't watch the show of course.
Hopetoun House dates back from the 17th century and it sits in a perfect spot of tranquillity. It's been home to the Hope family since the late 1600's and the present Lord Hopetoun and his family still live in the house. It's filled with majestic treasures of art, stunning architectural features and lush interiors. The outside grounds and nature walks are equally beautiful to catch on a lovely summer's day. 
I'm always nervous bringing my children to such a place because as you know children can become mischievous at the most random of times. But, everyone that worked in the house was so friendly and helpful, they quickly set my oldest two on a treasure hunt around the house to answer clues and were very quick to chat to my youngest to help her feel at ease - though, she became grumpy later & my husband took her outside to run around. Pretty much every room has someone there to answer any questions, you're free to wander around at your own leisure which I love. Not a lot is cut off from the public, which is really nice and helps you get a better grasp of the atmosphere. 
Should you wish you can also have a lovely bite to eat in the Stables Kitchen, which we had some really gorgeous mocktails and food outside in the courtyard. Or you can take a lovely stroll through the grounds which are perfect for seeing wildlife, there's a garden trail or a sea walk trail that you can follow. Below you can see some of my pictures from the house, just random details that I loved. But, I do recommend seeing the house yourself if you ever visit Scotland sometime. 

For more info see the official web: Hopetoun House

Have a lovely day dolls
xoxo

All photos taken by me, except ones of me taken by my daughter Saffron (inside) and my husband Gavin (outside). 

{Dainty Boudoir: Dress - Vintage ; Shoes - Office Shoes}