Our History

Built in 1761 as a private house, Ednam House was purchased and turned into Kelso first hotel by Ralph Brooks in 1928; the hotel opened its doors to guests on the 10th of July of that year. The hotel has been owned and run by the Brooks family eversince. Although the original building has been extended and updated through the years by each generation, many wonderful features have been retained enhancing the charm, character and unique atmosphere of this historic mansion. Today, Ralph and Anne Brooks are the fourth generation of the family at the helm of Ednam House ensuring that its wonderful heritage carries on.

Read more about the history of the hotel and meet the family below -

Our Heritage

James Dickson ran away from Kelso at the age of 11 to escape the authorities after breaking the pantwell of the town, then situated in the town square   

It is understood that he went to London, where we can pick up his trail later on in his life. An entrepreneur, James Dickson dealt in the trading and import of goods in England, mainly spices. This trade made him a very rich man and having made his fortune, decided to come back to his hometown.

Now a respectable gentleman, James Dickson needed to find housing to match his stature and so decided to build Ednam House, then named Havanah House.

So in 1761, the house was erected and no expense was spared. The location by the river was bought as well as land in the town to provide the vegetable garden. The architect was James Nisbet who amongst other prestigious buildings, had supervised the erection of Paxton House near Duns. The then expert Joseph Rose executed the splendid Italian plaster ceilings. Fine craftsmen were contracted to produce the various exquisite carved doors, fireplaces and stone work.

After the death of James Dickson, Havannah House had various owners until 1928 when Ralph Brooks, a  Kelso baker , bought the house and turned it into a hotel.

Today after more than 80 years , Anne and Ralph are the fourth generation of the Brooks family to own and run the hotel.    

Meet the Family