Newhailes is a fine late 17th century house with impressive 18th century additions and interiors, set in a fascinating 18th century designed landscape. The house was built by the distinguished Scottish architect James Smith in 1686, and bought in the early 1700s by Sir David Dalrymple, of the Scots legal and political dynasty, who were responsible for significant improvements and additions to the house, and for one of the most important rococo interiors in Scotland. The most remarkable addition was the library, which played host to many famous figures of the Scottish Enlightenment. The house contains a fine collection of paintings, including portraits by Sir John de Medina and Allan Ramsay. Much of the original decoration and furnishing has survived intact, though worn.
