A Conversation with Lord Balniel at Balcarres Estate
This year, we shot our AW24 campaign against the stunning backdrop of the Balcarres Estate in Fife, Scotland, home to the Earl and Countess of Crawford. First purchased by John Lindsay in the 1500s, the estate features breathtaking views of the Scottish countryside and offers cosy cottages where you can stay during your visit.
Discover the rich history of the estate and explore the must-do activities to add to your itinerary for your next trip to Scotland in our interview with Alexander Lindsay!
The Balcarres Estate was first purchased in 1586 by John Lindsay, Lord Menmuir. Your family has called this place home for over 20 generations. Can you tell us more about that?
Alexander:
Yes, Balcarres House is the seat of Clan Lindsay and has been lived in by over 23 generations of our family.
What are some of your favourite historical stories about the estate?
Alexander:
One of my favourites is about the front gates, known as the “Golden Gates.” Originally painted in gold, they were shipwrecked on their way to Scotland. An irate former Earl ordered them to be dredged up from the wreck.
Another story is that Oliver Cromwell stayed at Balcarres for a while. Surprisingly, he didn’t burn the house down, as was his custom. Suggestions are that the Cromwell room still holds his Ghost.
You now have four beautiful holiday cottages that are now open for the public to stay in. What are some activities guests can enjoy on the grounds during their stay?
Alexander:
Guests can enjoy biking, horse riding, hiking, and golfing at Dumbarnie Links, the estate’s own golf course.
What are your favourite spots to visit in the nearby towns? (Pubs, restaurants, activities, etc.)
Alexander:
I highly recommend the Kinneuchar Inn and the Ship Inn in Elie. Ardross Farm Shop is also a local gem. For activities, St. Andrews, Elie, and Crail are must-visits. You can enjoy a round of golf at Dumbarnie Links or take a walk along the beaches at Elie and St. Andrews. The castle and cathedral at St. Andrews are also worth exploring.
The sunrise each morning makes for a perfect backdrop for an early countryside walk. What are your must have Penelope Chilvers boots for days spent in the countryside?
Alexander:
My wife would definitely say the Conker Long Tassel Boot, perfect for outside on the estate and autumnal walks.… And for me the Oscar Wool-Lined Boot named after our Shetland (or we like to think so!)
Here at Penelope Chilvers we love the natural world, inspired by the past with respect for the future. Why, do you think, is the act of preserving the natural world so important for not only us but for future generations?
Alexander:
Our family has worked the land at Balcarres for over 20 generations. While much has changed over the years, we remain a working estate, dedicated to producing high-quality crops and food. Mindful of the harmful impact industrialised farming can have on soil health, Balcarres today treats regenerative practices as crucial to sustainable agriculture.
Partnering with the local East Neuk Estates group to refine our centuries-old rotational farming methods, we've embraced innovations such as minimal tillage, cover-crop planting, and mob-grazing cattle. These practices help restore carbon to the soil, ensuring its vitality is preserved—and even enhanced—for future generations.
As my grandfather used to say, "They don't make land anymore, so you have to look after it." — Farm Manager, Matt Waldie
At Balcarres, respect for the natural world goes hand-in-hand with modern estate management. We focus on preserving and restoring our ancient woodlands, wetlands and pasture, creating and enhancing rich habitats for the benefit of native species from birdlife to butterflies. The planting of native tree species is an integral part of our environmental approach and since 2010 we have established many acres of new woodlands, totalling over 25,000 new trees.
Balcarres today boasts a growing bee project with over 40 hives as well as a red squirrel initiative that is slowly but surely re-establishing one of Scotland’s most characterful mammals and giving them a permanent foothold in Fife.
We're thrilled to announce that we've partnered with Balcarres Estate and Addison Ross Home to celebrate the launch of our Autumn Collection. To learn more about how you can win a £1700 worth bundle of goodies, see our Instagram post.
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