The History

Cornhill Estate, with its original mansion house, was acquired in the early 1860s by Alexander Kay, a rich “East India” merchant whose business was based on the River Clyde at Glasgow.

As the House was only a short drive from Coulter station it meant is was possible to travel into Glasgow daily on business while maintaining a home in rural surroundings.

When Mr Kay decided to rebuild the house he chose an architect with whom he was familiar, the young William Leiper who would go one to become one of Scotland's most respected architects and who would later design the famous “Doges Palace” on Glasgow Green. The house was to be redesigned to incorporate the older Georgian parts of the original house.

Leiper designed Cornhill House as a French Renaissance Period Chateau, built entirely of light coloured freestone with rich carving on the exterior. From its corner tower, capped by a wrought iron crown, there are splendid glimpses of the upper Clyde Valley.

The main rooms of the house are south facing to capture the magnificent views across the river and the landscape beyond whilst enjoying the sun for the majority of the day - Scottish weather permitting.

Cornhill is often described as resembling a fairytale castle due to its architectural design and picture perfect setting.

The Development

The House remained in private ownership until the late 1940s, when it was established as a home for the elderly by the Regional Council. It was closed in 1993 and it remained unoccupied until it was again taken into private ownership in 1998.

A program of restoration was initiated with the aim of conversion to a premier functions venue, a purpose for which it was ideally suited by reason of its classic design and beautiful setting.

Cornhill House enjoys a perfect countryside location. It occupies an elevate position overlooking the upper River Clyde against the dramatic backdrop of Tinto Hill.

Although its setting is rural, an excellent road infrastructure provides easy access to the cities of Edinburgh, 26 miles and Glasgow, 32 miles.

Years in planning have produced a Ballroom Wing which sets new standards in design and amenity and meets the exacting conditions of Listed Building Consent from Historic Scotland.

As a wedding venue the new suite offers all round excellence in terms of style, ambience, facilities and space. A permanent stage arranged at one end of the ballroom provides facilities for music and entertainment, whilst at the other, a large conservatory offers a quieter area for relaxation. Extensive bar facilities service both areas.

In addition is the VIP Room, a small but comfortable hospitality room with private bathroom for the exclusive use of the Bride & Groom. This room is located in the Ballroom behind the bandstand and affords some privacy when desired.

The hotel has nine individually styled bedrooms, offering en-suite facilities with separate bath and shower, hairdryer, telephone, digital television, room fridge and welcome tray. These rooms have recently been refreshed and upgraded taking them to a level equivalent to four star status.

Since the completion of the Ballroom Suite in 2008 Cornhill House has acquired an enviable reputation as one of Scotland's more elegant and beautifully situated wedding venues, noted for its meticulous organization and for the quality of catering.