Our core values are inspired by the life of Isobel Wylie Hutchison, the renowned botanist, Arctic explorer, author, and former resident of Carlowrie Castle.
Like Isobel, we’re consciously striving to make a positive impact for people and the planet each and every day.
We’re proud to be B Corp certified, meaning we have exceptionally high standards of social and environmental practices. Ask us about how we’re regenerating the land through our replanting initiative, supporting our community with our own homelessness charity, and how we’ve implemented energy-saving practices that make Carlowrie Castle a greener place.
Since 2020, we’ve been operating our own charity, The Breakfast Bothy, which provides vital help to people experiencing homelessness in Edinburgh. We started with a simple aim to provide a hot drink and breakfast to anyone in need, and have since begun serving lunch, operating a token scheme with local businesses, and in 2024 we opened our first charity shop and community hub.
Our team actively supports many other charities and positive initiatives, and since 2019 we’ve presented our annual Isobel Award to a group or individual who is making a positive impact on the lives of others. This award comes with a monetary prize and tailored support for the winner’s work. In 2024, our winner was With Kids, a Glasgow-based charity providing important mental health support to children and their carers. Learn more about the wonderful things With Kids do here.
We recently developed a carbon-offsetting project, planting a truffle orchard of nearly 200 trees on our 32-acre estate. This project has a special historical resonance for us as Robert Hutchison, who oversaw the construction of Carlowrie Castle, was a recognised expert in forestry, and we feel sure that he would have approved.
Our Head Gardener, Alex, has created a flourishing physic garden bursting with delicious fresh fruits and vegetables that are used by our chef. All of our other produce is sustainably and transparently sourced within Scotland.
Just like Isobel was, we are actively involved with the local Kirkliston community. Our annual events Picnic and Praise and Carols at Carlowrie are a wonderful opportunity to welcome our community to Carlowrie Castle. These are always much anticipated dates in our calendar. We also welcome local schools and groups to Carlowrie Castle to explore our fascinating history on free tours. If you are a teacher and would like to arrange a tour for your students, please get in touch.
We also believe in championing emerging artists and supporting both traditional and innovative craftsmanship. The castle is home to the Carlowrie Collection, with over 120 artworks from emerging urban and pop artists around the world!
By hosting your event at Carlowrie Castle you’re helping us on our mission to make the planet a better place.
