The Allan Ramsay Hotel

About The Allan Ramsay Hotel

Dating from 1792 The Allan Ramsay Hotel is a 'coaching' inn located in the former weavers' village of Carlops, nestled at the foot of the Pentland Hills. Situated alongside the A702 road it is conveniently located only 20 minutes from Edinburgh. This historic inn retains its 18th Century character with antique decorations, a small library, charming candle-lit restaurant and real log fires.

The hotel has four comfortable guests rooms (all ensuite) on the upper floor which offer single, double, twin and family occupancy options. There is also a lovely self-contained apartment, on the ground floor with its own separate entrance. The apartment sleeps six and has one double bedroom with an ensuite shower room, a second double bedroom and a twin room plus a comfortable lounge, kitchen and a bathroom with shower.

Guests staying with us can enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast served daily from 7.30am (8am at weekends) .

Food is served daily from 12 noon and is freshly prepared using finest quality, locally sourced meat, fish and game wherever possible. At weekends there are usually Chef's Specials on offer and a selection of freshly baked scones, cakes and desserts is served daily.

To compliment your food there is a good selection of sparkling, white, red and rose wines on offer; chosen by the wine experts at Cockburns of Leith.


The Allan Ramsay Hotel was named in honour of one of Scotland's most important historical figures. Allan Ramsay (1684-1758) was a poet, collector of Scots songs and verse and an important figure in Edinburgh where he opened the first circulating library in Britain, as well as the first theatre and school of arts in Edinburgh. His most important literary work is "The Gentle Shepherd" which is set in the countryside around the village of Carlops. This is a ballad opera telling the story of the lives and loves of two local shepherds and features over 20 Scottish folk tunes. It was very popular in its day and for many years people would visit Carlops and take walks to visit the scenery of the play. Allan Ramsay's statue can be found in Princes Street Gardens and his house (Ramsay Gardens) is one of Edinburgh's most recognisable buildings located below the castle.

Allan Ramsay's eldest son (1713-1784) also called Allan; was probably one of Britain's finest portrait painters. He studied in Italy, and was commissioned by the most important and influential throughout Britain, having a studio in London and Edinburgh. At the height of his career he became portrait painter to King George III.

Allan Ramsay

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