Gosford House

About

Gosford House, the large and magnificent mansion of the Earls of Wemyss, is set in 5,000 acres of combined coast and landscaped grounds with pleasure grounds, woodland and ponds, on the south side of the Firth of Forth.

Gosford House was one of the last great architectural commissions of the celebrated Scots architect, Robert Adam. Constructed for the seventh Earl of Wemyss, the building was completed in 1800 – eight years after the architect’s death – and is recognised as an outstanding example of the later period of his work. Inside, the building exceeds the expectations raised by its elegant exterior. The Marble Hall, in the south wing, is arguably the most arresting of its many fine features.

It was completed in 1891 by William Young for the tenth Earl of Wemyss and rises to a height of three storeys, with a magnificent double staircase leading to a surrounding picture gallery. The elaborate fireplace, alabaster colonnades and ornate plasterwork reflect the strong Italianate taste of the tenth Earl, while the Palladian screen of Venetian windows  are reminiscent of Adam’s original designs.

Occupied by the army during WWII, the house suffered severe damage due to a fire and damage caused by its occupants. Most of the artefacts and artwork survived but conservation has since remained a priority. No visit would be complete without a mention of the architectural evolutions of the house, both through redesigns and damages caused in WWII.  Discover the family’s incredible private art collection before heading outside to the lovely water features of the grounds.