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Set in 82 acres of beautiful parkland, the historic Mansion House is located at the heart of Edinburgh Zoo. A unique and versatile setting for your conference, business meeting or special event, the Mansion House provides elegant surroundings coupled with delicious food and quality service 364 days a year.
With a wide range of rooms situated across the zoo you will not only impress your guests but ensure they have a relaxing and enjoyable experience whilst being situated in an inspiring environment.
History of the Mansion House
The Estate of Corstorphine Hill was originally feuded by John Dickie in 1720; the name was retained for the west part of the land after Dickie’s feu was subdivide, creating Beechwood in the middle section and Brucehill (later known as Belmont) to the east (Harris 194).
The Corstorphine Hill feu was sold to brewer David Johnston in 1768. In 1791 the feu was bought by accountant William Keith, who built Corstorphine Hill House in 1793 (NSA 216).
Originally built in 1793 as the family home of William Keith, the house was then altered and enlarged in 1891 by the MacMillan family, whose fortunes came from the Melrose Tea Company, in the Scots Baronial style, designed by Alexander Wood McNaughtan. The original bow window on the south front was heightened to form a heavy castellated tower and a large turreted extension was added on the east.
The stained glass window on the main staircase was thought to be a wedding gift from John MacMillan to his wife. Their initials can still be seen engraved on the window.
Further additions were made to the house after its purchase by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) in 1912, including alterations by Sir Robert Lorimer in 1913.
Over the years the mansion has provided living accommodation for keepers, offices for administrators and a meeting place for visitors. The mansion is now used as an event venue throughout the year hosting weddings, conferences and other events.
