Craigengillan Estate
Hidden between East Ayrshire’s rugged hilltops, Craigengillan is an award-winning estate of 3000 acres of new native woodland, pasture, wetlands, heaths and lochs. Using methods steeped in centuries of tradition coupled with modern innovation, you’ll find an organic sheep farm, riding stables, idyllic holiday cottages and responsible forestry. Craigengillan is also home to the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory.
Craigengillan, which motto is “Steady, Calm, Forever”, was first established as an estate in 1611 and remained a seat of the McAdam family and their descendants for almost 400 years. In 1757, John McAdam, the great engineer and innovator, took over the estate. With his cousin, John Loudon McAdam, he invented tarmac and became road and bridge builder. The McAdams were enthusiastic horse breeders and sportsmen. By 1800, the Category A listed stable block was built.
In 1905, Jansen of Paris were contracted to remodel and redecorate much of the house interiors. Jansen interiors can also be found in Buckingham Palace and the White House. When the estate changed hands in November 1999, the new owner, Mark Gibson, embarked on a policy of encouraging public access. Now, over 100 000 visitors enjoy the unique beauty of this very special place every year.
Craigengillan offers a variety of accommodations options. Nestled deep within the grounds sit two beautifully restored cottages. Sitting peacefully in a sunny woodland glade by the banks of a rushing stream, Find Me Out and Forget Me Not, self-service cottages are finished with period features, authentic furnishings and modern conveniences.
has a double bedroom upstairs with double or twin, and bathroom with freestanding cast iron bath and shower cubicle. Downstairs there is a traditional kitchen with Aga cooker. living room, (with space at rear for double inflatable bed with feet if required), and a utility room with tumble drier. Secure fenced garden to relax in, next to the Glessel burn, with BBQ and log store (logs are provided).
has a double bedroom with four-poster bed downstairs with a cosy log fire, a traditional kitchen complete with a working Aga, living room (with pull down double sofa bed if required), utility room with washing machine and tumble drier, toilet with walk-in shower. Upstairs, there is a double bedroom, either double, or a twin (with option of an extra single bed). A bathroom with freestanding cast iron bath and shower cubicle. Secure fenced garden to the rear with BBQ and log store (logs are provided).
The Glamping Pods and Mini Lodge are beautifully located for accessibility and with wonderful views. The two luxury heated and insulated pods include either a double bed and two singles, or four singles. an En-suite shower, toilet and wash basin, a two ring induction hob, fridge, microwave, toaster and kettle. You would need to bring your own bedding/sleeping bag/ pillows, towels (kitchen & bathroom), kitchen essentials (washing up liquid, cloths etc), headtorch or lamp.
Craigengillan has a lot of outdoor activities to enjoy. Why not bring your horse and enjoy over 70 miles of phenomenal off-road hacking, enjoy miles of walking and cycling opportunities, or just relax and enjoy the beauty of staying in a world renowned Dark Sky Park.
The Category A listed Georgian stables, offers riding guidance from fully qualified staff to all ages and abilities. You can track for days through Craigengillan and neighbouring Galloway Forest Park (without crossing a public road).
Along with all of this, the estate offers an array of outdoor activities. Some activities are run by Active Outdoor Pursuits. Activities available throughout the year include: white water rafting, canyoning, canoeing, kayaking, hill walking, rock climbing, mountain bike an so much more…
The extreme network of footpaths offer wonderful opportunities for walkers of all ages and fitness levels. Riverside strolling or hiking in the hills, this is a great place for walkers to discover natural habitats rich in wildlife and archaeological interests. There is no entry fee to the estate and visitors are welcome at anytime.
For booking and enquiries : admin@craigengillan.com / 01292 551818
Photos courtesy of Craigengillan Estate.