This John Adam house was built in 1753 with a plethora of fascinating secrets. Today it is a historic house, visitor attraction, and self-catering accommodation.
Built by local smuggler and merchant John Nisbet in the 1750s, Gunsgreen House was described in the eighteenth century as a ""splendid palace built by a smuggler"".
See how Eyemouth was a hotbed of the smuggling trade, with John Nisbet at the centre and explore the vaulted cellars where he kept his goods, both honestly traded and otherwise!
Uncover the hiding places built into the house, especially the Tea Chute, a unique survivor of the days when tea smuggling could make fortunes. The house also features rooms from the main periods in its history, from John Nisbet to the Rev George Home and Mrs Dougal's Guest House. Admire the beautiful setting overlooking the busy fishing harbour.
Kids can dress up, do the 'rat trail' and also follow the smuggling trail, smuggling their own counterfeit tea. The visitor attraction is great fun and fascinating for all the family.
You can stay in Gunsgreen House, with apartments for 11 guests available. Nearby Nisbet's Tower can provide cosy accommodation for two.
The house also provides a unique wedding and events venue, providing space for your celebration, party or corporate event. There are also ticketed events for the public all year round, please see the website for up to date details.
Directions
From A1: turn off at the Eyemouth junction. As you approach Eyemouth, you go round a roundabout near the new High School; a little way further along, a large sign directs you into The Avenue, on the right side - the original approach to the House. Drive along the avenue, and a further sign takes you down in to the car park
From Coldingham: sweep down the hill towards Eyemouth, keep on Coldingham Road until you cross the bridge high over the Eye Water. Almost immediately you will see the sign on the left - follow as before.
Getting there by railway:- Many main line trains - Cross Country and East Coast trains stop at Berwick-Upon-Tweed. From here there are regular buses to Eyemouth, mostly provided by Perrymans, who have a website with timetable information. The bus journey takes about twenty minutes. After you pass the roundabout by the High School make to get off - the bus stop is opposite The Avenue, with its prominent sign to the House. Alternatively you can get a taxi from Berwick.
