Lennoxlove House - a literary love story

Lennoxlove House on the outskirts of Haddington is the exquisite venue which has become synonymous with the annual Lennoxlove Book Festival. Dating back to the fourteenth century and owned by the 16th Duke of Hamilton, the house is steeped in history and offers a truly atmospheric backdrop for our unique Scottish book festival. No wonder then that the UK’s finest authors and celebrities take little persuasion to attend.

Originally a sturdy keep owned by the Maitlands of Lethington, whose coat of arms can still be found above the fireplace in the drawing room, the story of Lennoxlove House is intimately entwined with many of the central characters from Scotland’s turbulent history. To name but a few, Sir Richard Maitland, a 15th century political mover and shaker, the notorious Duke of Lauderdale who ruled most of Scotland on behalf of Charles II, the Stewarts– Frances Teresa Stewart, Duchess of Richmond and Lennox, gave her name to the house – the Black Douglases, and of course the Hamiltons. Over seven centuries the house has been shaped and crafted by its cast of historical forebears.

Lennoxlove House

Bought by the 14th Duke of Hamilton in 1946, Lennoxlove House today, has been lovingly restored into an impressive house with extensive grounds, which is offered as an indulgent five star venue for a variety of events. Lennoxlove houses a treasure trove of historical artefacts including a four-poster bed reputedly slept in by Mary Queen of Scots, her original death mask, and an extensive collection of family furniture and portraits.

On 4-6 November 2011 the local community and visitors from further afield are invited to enjoy the atmosphere and history of this great house and gardens. Several of our author events including the Knight Frank Family Book Festival will be held within rooms such as The Chapel, and Great Hall whilst the larger events will take place in marquees in the grounds.

The Great Hall

Become a Friend of Lennoxlove Book Festival and along with other benefits you’ll be invited to the exclusive festival opening party in the upper rooms where you may just bump into a famous author or two! Or enjoy a coffee and a bookshop browse in one of the magnificent reception halls. A warm welcome awaits you!

Lennoxlove Book Festival programme and box office opening will be launched on 15th September. To find out more visit http://www.lennoxlovebookfestival.com/ or join our chat on Facebook and Twitter.

Guided tours of Lennoxlove House run between May-September. More information at www.lennoxlove.com/the-house/guided-tours.

Lennoxlove Book Festival gears up for 2011 programme launch

On the weekend of 4-6 November 2011, Lennoxlove House in Haddington, East Lothian will once again throw open its doors to welcome visitors to the third Lennoxlove Book Festival.

Over the last few months, preparations have been gathering apace at the festival office. A distinguished cast of writers, celebrities and big personalities have been invited to share their anecdotes and literary journey with this year’s audience, ensuring a packed programme of events for both adults and children.

If last year’s Lennoxlove Book Festival is anything to go by, 2011 is guaranteed to be a big success. From the moment when the great Mary King appeared at 6pm on the first night to talk about her immense career as Britain's greatest event rider, to Tom Conti’s hilarious and touching memories of a career in film, stage and TV, the 2010 festival crackled with delight.

Lennoxlove House

After telling the amazing story of heroics at the siege of Kohima in India in 1944, Fergal Keane made everyone laugh when he told the audience he would be taking a collection at the door to help bail out the Irish economy.

Simon King and Julia Donaldson enraptured audiences of parents and children at the Family Book Festival, while Alastair Campbell unexpectedly charmed and disarmed many. In the Great Hall’s atmospheric surroundings, authors such as Maggie O’Farrell, Josceline Dimbleby and Mary Contini entertained and informed. And on the Sunday night, Philip Contini’s Be Happy Band brought the festival to a happy conclusion.

A spellbound audience

Programme launch

The 2011 Lennoxlove Book Festival programme and box office opening will launch on Thursday 15th September. Ensure you’re the first to hear all about this year’s events - add yourself to our mailing list by sending your email address to info@lennoxlovebookfestival.com.

Or become a Friend

Become a Friend of Lennoxlove Book Festival to enjoy advance programme mailing, and priority booking of tickets. You will also receive an invitation to our Festival launch party and 10% discount on all titles in the Festival Bookshop. Email info@lennoxlovebookfestival.com for details.

Lennoxlove Book Festival will take place in Haddington, East Lothian, Scotland, 4-6 November 2011. Now entering its third year, it has quickly become a favourite on the Scottish festival calendar. This year's event is kindly sponsored by McInroy & Wood and Knight Frank (Family Book Festival).