Winton Castle, the business events and wedding venue in East Lothian, has just celebrated more than 500 years of history and changing back to being called Winton Castle.
Winton Castle was a stronghold of the powerful Seton family in the 16th century but was burnt down by Henry VIII during the ‘rough wooing’ of the young Mary Queen of Scots’. The castle was restored by the Earl of Winton in the fashion of the Scottish Renaissance to entertain the royal court, including a visit by King Charles I.
Around 100 visitors from the hospitality industry and business world attended the celebration and were entertained sixteenth century style by fire-jugglers, axe throwers, medieval musicians, men-at-arms and clan drummers.
Guests were welcomed by Sir Francis Ogilvy, owner of Winton Castle, as they sipped castle cocktails and enjoyed canapés concocted from venison, scallops, quail, beetroot and asparagus from award-winning caterers, Appetite Direct. A sumptuous modern day feast followed.
“As far as our food is concerned, Winton is a ‘modern castle’ where we like to serve contemporary, top class dishes from local, seasonal ingredients. Our food also draws on Winton Castle and the Estate’s rich heritage,” says James Maynard, Winton’s general manager.
