A PLACE ΤΟ YOURSELF

Jeremy Ellwood discovers the Old Millhouse in Dalkeith to be the perfect away-from-it-all base for exploring the East Lothian coast's many fine links

- Jeremy Ellwood

I've been fortunate to play golf in East Lothian many times, but my June trip with my wife was a little different. First, I had, by coincidence, only just returned from playing Gullane's excellent No.1 and No.3 courses, so this was a somewhat speedier return than anticipated. Second, we wouldn't be staying in a hotel, but rather the beautifully renovated Old Millhouse by the River South Esk in Dalkeith (admittedly in Midlothian rather than East Lothian). And finally, our mood was relatively sombre as we had only just said our sad goodbyes to a much-loved family pet, leaving my wife uncertain as to whether or not she should join me.

She's glad she did, for the Old Millhouse proved the ideal spot for her to chill while I made return visits to Kilspindie and North Berwick, two of my favourite courses on the East Lothian coast. This stunning property, eight miles from the centre of Edinburgh and 20 minutes from the airport if you time it right, boasts a suitably tucked-away entrance just before the bridge over the river in Dalkeith.

Of course, there are many golf courses right on the doorstep in Midlothian and around Edinburgh, too, including Newbattle almost next door. But owner Sally de Waard feels her main market lies among the thousands of golfers who flock to East Lothian's coastline every year, including many Americans.

The property sleeps ten in five individually decorated ensuite rooms on the top two floors, with a large orangery that doubles up as a 'formal' dining room and a spacious and extremely well-equipped kitchen occupying much of the ground floor. Try as she might, my wife couldn't find a utensil or cooking implement that Sally hadn't had the forethought to supply. Some of the antiques on display throughout hail from a former life overseas for Sally.