Overview
Explore 2,000 years of history around this impressive house, from Roman occupation in the surrounding estate to the Industrial Revolution.
Built in the middle of the 16th century next to the Antonine Wall, Kinneil House was one of the seats of the powerful and influential Hamilton family. Undergoing several extensions and refurbishments over the course of 300 years, Kinneil House reflected the Hamiltons’ high status both inside and out.
Moving forward into the future, Kinneil House has a good claim to being the birthplace of the improved steam engine thanks to pioneering Scots engineer James Watt, who contributed substantially to the industrial revolution when he developed his first engine in a small workshop beside the house in the 1700s.
On Saturday's from April to September, you can join our tour guide as you are taken through the house to hear about the history of the Hamilton's, our 16th century late medieval kitchen, the special renaissance period painted rooms and finish off with the Rediscovering the Antonine Wall Exhibition to complete your tour.
Tours begin at the front of the house and last approximately 45 minutes. Without a tour, Kinneil House is available for exterior viewing and the surrounding estate offers 2000 years of history with a large historic parkland and the Kinneil Museum. For more information, please visit the Kinneil House Estate website.
