'A Quirky and Unique Historic Scottish Hideaway'

Set in the foothills of the Cheviot hills and on the edge of the Northumberland National Park, Gypsy Palace is an unusual self catering cottage with a fascinating history. Situated in the Scottish Borders at the most northerly point of the Pennine Way, the small village of Kirk Yetholm has been regarded as the home of the gypsies of Scotland and Northern England for over 300 years; Gypsy Palace is famous the world over as the royal residence of both Queen Esther and her son and heir, King Charles Faa Blythe. It is said that Queen Esther became very popular receiving the gentry from far and wide (including Sir Walter Scott) who visited especially to hear her words of wisdom, We have no idea how old the cottage is but records mention its existence back in the early 1800's.

We have owned Gypsy Palace since 2006 and it is now available to rent, sleeping up to four people, though its small size means its even better for couples. It is perfect for exploring both the Scottish Borders with its stunning moors and quaint market towns, and Northumberland with its spectacular beaches and many castles. Kelso, Jedburgh, Melrose, Holy Island, Alnwick and historic Berwick upon Tweed are all just a short drive away short drive.

Gypsy Palace has frequently appeared in the national and international press including:

The Times: 30 Serene Scottish Hideaways
The Scottish Field magazine
The Scotsman
The Sunday Times - article: Fit for a Queen
Tiny Living magazine
The Independent newspaper: UK's Best Holiday Houses
The Scottish Herald

We have also featured in many books and on websites all over the world including Lonely Planet, Buzzfeed, BBC Legacies, etc. We have recently been awarded 'The Most Charming Self-Catering Accommodation 2023 - Scottish Borders' by LUXLife magazine. We are also extremely privileged to have the Gypsy Palace included on The Great Tapestry of Scotland which tells the inspirational true story of the country’s history, heritage and culture (from 8500 BC to present day). It was hand stitched by over 1000 people in communities across Scotland and is made up of 160 panels and 300 miles of wool (enough to lay the entire length of Scotland from the Border with England to the tip of the Shetland in the North Atlantic).The Gypsy Palace is shown on its own small section of the tapestry.

We comply with the terms of the new Short Let Licensing Rules and have our application for a license in progress and awaiting completion by Scottish Borders Council. Our application number is SLL000390

There is also a video available which shows off the Gypsy Palace and its environment and interior: Gypsy Palace Video
Just move your mouse or pointer over the image below to enter an interactive virtual tour of Gypsy Palace.


View Larger Map