A centuries-old Scottish country house with ties to The Beatles is preparing for a new chapter—one led by adult entertainment pioneer turned entrepreneur Gail Thackray and her daughter, Sydney.
According to The Scotsman, the former Roman Camp Hotel, a storied estate in Callander at the gateway to the Trossachs, has been purchased by the Thackray family and will reopen in spring 2026 under a new name: Thackray House.
The change in ownership launches a multi-year restoration project designed to preserve the site’s historic character while repositioning it as a boutique destination with global appeal.
Built in 1625 as a hunting lodge for the Duke of Perthshire, the property is considered one of Scotland’s rare preserved stately homes. Much of its original 17th-century detail—silken oak paneling, carved woodwork, crown moldings, period antiques, and historic décor—remains intact.
Over the centuries, it passed through aristocratic ownership and later became a retreat for artists, filmmakers, and political figures. Legendary Hollywood director Cecil B. DeMille was among its notable guests.
The estate’s pop-culture legacy expanded in the 1960s when The Beatles stayed there during their Scottish tours in 1963 and 1964.
That connection will be thoughtfully built into the hotel’s relaunch, with select guest rooms themed around the band’s visit, including a John Lennon Room and a Paul McCartney Suite.
Thackray, originally from Yorkshire, built a substantial career in Los Angeles as a model, actress, producer, and adult entertainment entrepreneur before expanding into hospitality and real estate. She is considered a pioneer in the world of online adult entertainment and ran a sultry hotline for adult entertainment.
Her daughter, Sydney, is a project partner while pursuing her own career in music and acting, who was also recently honored by Pope Leo.
“This is a magical place with one of the richest histories I have ever encountered,” Thackray said in a statement. “The moment I stepped inside, I felt the spirit of the seventeenth century still alive in the panels, the antiques, and the atmosphere.”
She added, “As a lifelong Beatles fan, knowing they stayed here makes it even more meaningful. My vision is to preserve the historic charm completely while offering guests an intimate, elevated boutique experience that feels authentically Scottish.”
Nearly £3 million has been committed to the restoration, which will be guided by Inverlochy Castle Management International (ICMI). The existing 17 en-suite rooms will eventually expand to 20, with the renovation of Rose Cottage included in the plans.
ICMI managing director Norbert Lieder said the investment will help secure the estate’s future while supporting the local economy. “The project will create jobs, support tourism, and bring renewed attention to the beauty of Callander and the Trossachs,” he said.
Thackray House will temporarily close during renovations, though bookings for weddings, events, and film productions beginning in 2026 are already being accepted.