The Barony of Smeaton Hepburn
Discover the heritage of the Barony in East Lothian, Scotland.
Discover The Barony of Smeaton Hepburn
Our Rich History
The Barony of Smeaton Hepburn boasts a fascinating history that dates back to the 1500s. Located in the picturesque Lothians of Scotland, the Barony offers a glimpse into the past and looks forward to the future through its historical landmarks and stories.
The History of the Barony of Smeaton Hepburn
The Barony was chartered by Her Majesty Queen Anne in 1704, but is centuries older
Her Royal Highness Queen Anne signed the Barony's earliest known charter in 1704, but records mention Smeaton Hepburn hundreds of years earlier. The Barony lands comprised over 800 acres in East Lothian, Scotland. The original charter resides in the National Library of Scotland, but the Baron holds a framed copy of it (left).
The Buchan-Hepburn family owned the lands of Smeaton Hepburn for over 400 years
The Buchan-Hepburn family owned the barony land for over 400 years and were the feudal Barons of Smeaton Hepburn. The family's many achievements include contributions to the law, horticulture, and military and civic leadership. Their family also has been honored with the dignity of Baronet. More information on the family can be found in David Affleck's excellent history: https://dkaffleck.co.uk/A%20History%20of%20Smeaton%20Hepburn%20estate.pdf
The Smeaton Hepburn Tower, the original castle, may have been built as early as the 1500s
Multiple maps from the 1630's forward depict a tower at Smeaton Hepburn. Hundreds of years later, a manor home was built, which unfortunately is no longer standing.
John Gray bought Smeaton-Hepburn in 1934 and his descendants held the Barony until recently
John Gray, a successful farmer, purchased the Barony's lands from the Buchan-Hepburn family in 1934, and his family remained the Barons of Smeaton Hepburn for nearly 100 years until the present Baron received the dignity.