Newly reopened following a two-year restoration, Penicuik House, the exclusive-use property which sits within the wider Penicuik Estate just outside Edinburgh, offers a compelling option for senior-level meetings, leadership retreats and residential away days that need focus, privacy and space to think. The house forms part of the historic Penicuik Estate, with the original Palladian Penicuik House now a romantic ruin nearby. Today’s Penicuik House has been carefully reimagined in collaboration with interior designer Charles Orchard, blending period character with an eclectic, lived-in feel that suits modern corporate use. Original proportions and architectural details remain, but the interiors feel warm and welcoming rather than formal, setting the tone for productive conversations that carry on well beyond the agenda.
Accommodation is one of this venue’s key strengths. The house offers 16 en-suite bedrooms sleeping up to 32 guests, including a mix of generous suites and double rooms. This makes it particularly well suited to board-level away days, executive retreats and residential strategy sessions, where keeping the group together under one roof helps maintain momentum and encourages more open dialogue. The bedrooms are elegant without being showy, reinforcing the sense that this is a private house rather than a traditional hotel.
Across the property, a variety of flexible spaces support different elements of a programme. A large drawing room works well for workshops, brainstorming sessions and informal networking, while a wood-panelled bar and library provides a natural hub for evenings. There is also a dedicated cinema room equipped for presentations, screenings and talks, along with a formal dining room suitable for board dinners or celebratory meals. A fully equipped kitchen allows organisers to bring in private chefs and create bespoke dining experiences tailored to the group.
Outside, the grounds extend the experience beyond the walls of the house. The Italian courtyard is designed for entertaining, with terraces, firepits and grills that work well for relaxed group dining. Elsewhere, the Rose Garden offers a calmer backdrop, complete with a croquet lawn and drinks terrace. The estate connects directly to the Pentland Hills, giving groups easy access to walking and cycling routes that encourage time outdoors and a change of pace between sessions. To complement meetings and retreats, the on-site team can curate a range of wellbeing and team-building experiences, drawing on the estate and surrounding landscape. From guided walks and heritage-led activities to wellness-focused sessions, programmes can be tailored to suit the objectives of each group.
Located around 30 minutes from Edinburgh, Penicuik House is easily accessible for UK and international groups travelling via the Scottish capital, while still feeling properly removed once on site. For planners looking to host senior teams in a setting that feels purposeful and genuinely restorative, it offers a strong alternative to city-centre hotels or conference venues.