ONE of Scotland's oldest inhabited castles, which operates as a luxury hotel, has been sold.

Dalhousie Castle & Aqueous Spa, which dates from the 13th century and holds two AA rosettes for its "atmospheric" Dungeon Restaurant, has been acquired by a US-based private buyer.

The castle had been part of the luxury Robert Parker Hotel Collection and came to the market after operators Robert and Gina Parker announced their intention to retire in May of this year.

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Dalhousie was put up for sale alongside the other properties in the Robert Parker Group, Doxford Hall Hotel & Spa in Alnwick, Ednam House Hotel in Kelso, and Eshott Hall in Morpeth.

The sale of Dalhousie, which is located eight miles from Edinburgh and offers 35 bedrooms, was brokered by Gary Witham, director in Christie & Co’s Scottish hospitality team, and David Lee, regional director of hotels – north.

Mr Witham said: “This is a stunning heritage asset within easy reach of Edinburgh, and it will undoubtedly reap the benefits of the capital’s burgeoning overseas leisure market, which was proven by the strong international interest in the hotel.”

Mr Lee noted: “I have known Mr Parker for a number of years and we are delighted to conclude the sale of Dalhousie Castle Hotel for him.”

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