The Precinct House
ID: S267585
- Bedrooms 2
- ・ Sleeps 3
- ・ Pets No
Guests say
The Precinct House in Whithorn is a well-received cottage, praised for its unique character, historical charm, and modern amenities. Guests appreciate the cleanliness, the warm and welcoming atmosphere, and the thoughtful touches such as welcome packs. While some find the seating firm and the lighting dim for reading, the overall experience is highly regarded, with many eager to return.
Reviews consistently mention the property being 'spotlessly clean' and 'very clean', indicating high standards of cleanliness. A few comments about cobwebs and dust suggest minor areas for improvement, but the general consensus is one of a well-maintained property.
The location is appreciated for its scenic beauty and historical significance, with easy access to local attractions. Some guests mention a lack of nearby pubs or restaurants and road noise, but the overall sentiment is positive about the setting.
Comfort receives mixed reviews. The bed is often described as comfortable, but several guests find the seating to be firm and uncomfortable. The warmth of the property is praised, suggesting a cosy environment overall.
Facilities are generally well-regarded, with mentions of underfloor heating and a well-equipped kitchen. Some guests were pleasantly surprised by additional amenities like a dishwasher and washing machine. However, there are comments about maintenance issues such as problems with heating and lighting upon arrival.
Guests often express gratitude for the thoughtful touches, such as welcome packs and fresh flowers. While these gestures are highly appreciated, it should be noted that such personal touches, though common, may vary and are not guaranteed for every stay.
About this property
This Georgian-style property can be found in the centre of the former Royal burgh of Whithorn in Dumfries and Galloway. The Precinct House is a National Trust for Scotland property in an excellent, central location for a couple or small family to discover the Machars, nearby coast and Galloway Forest Park. Enter the property to find it has been lovingly restored, whilst maintaining much of its character and history, with underfloor heating throughout helping to retain a cosy feel. The sitting room is complete with a bay window, woodburning stove and a choice of Georgian furniture to settle down onto. The lovely sun room has a glass ceiling and exposed stone walls, and provides a wonderful space to relax with a good back and enjoy some quiet time, while the kitchen/diner has attractive oak beams, a Belfast sink that looks out onto the sun room and a dining table to gather around to enjoy home-cooked meals. The shower room provides a place for you to get ready each morning, while upstairs are the two bedrooms, a single and a fantastic master bedroom with king-size four-poster bed. Outside there is roadside parking available, plus a rear enclosed garden with a patio and furniture, ideal for enjoying a morning coffee or an alfresco dinner. The Priory next door to the property once housed the relics of St Ninian, who died around 431AD, while Whithorn itself is an Outstanding Conservation Area and one of Scotland's oldest settlements, home to Scotland's first Christian church, built by St Ninian in 397 AD. Visit Whithorn Priory and follow the route taken by many medieval pilgrims who would visit St Ninian’s shrine, which can be found at the east end of the church, as well as carved stone displays and the Whithorn Story Visitor Centre and head to St Ninian's Cave on the coast, an isolated cave that was thought to be a hideaway for the saint. There are shops and pubs within a mile of the property, while the Galloway House Gardens botanical garden is within easy reach. Explore The Machars peninsula, packed with quaint villages, stunning coastal walks amidst rugged coastline, idyllic harbours and lovely sandy beaches. Head to Wigtown, the national book town of Scotland, filled with French-style architecture, quirky shops, bookshops and tearooms, holding many festivals throughout the year. Venture north towards the Galloway Forest Park, and enjoy scenic walking and cycling trails through the largest forest in the UK and Scotland's first Dark Sky Park, which also makes it one of the best places to stargaze in Europe. A fantastic, historical property well-placed for discovering this fascinating part of Scotland. Note: This property can be booked with Refs. 1046834 & 1044477, together sleeping 12 guests. EPC Rating: Band E
The former Royal Burgh of Whithorn can be found on the Machars Peninsula in Dumfries and Galloway and is renowned for having the first recorded Christian church is Scotland, built by St Ninian around 397, the site of the Candida Casa, or White/Shining House, is now home to the parish church. The area of Whithorn is rich in history and is also home to a medieval priory and an archaeological site. The Machars and Rhins of Galloway are also home to spectacular gardens, a result of the Gulf Stream and mild climate. Logan Botanic Gardens, the Aldouran Wetland and the spectacular gardens of Castle Kennedy are all a must see. To the north of the Machars are the Galloway Hills, offering walking to all levels as well as world class mountain biking. Golf, fishing and wildlife spotting are well catered for and the sandy beaches of Monrieth, Garleston, and along the whole of Luce Bay will delight any visitor.
Short-term Holiday Let Licence No: DG-00050-FAccommodation
2 bedrooms: 1 x king-size double, 1 x single.
Ground-floor bathroom with walk-in shower, basin and WC.
Kitchen/diner.
Sitting room with woodburning stove.
Sun room
Oil fired central heating with underfloor heating and woodburning stove.
Electric oven and hob, microwave, radio, TV and WiFi.
Fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Cot and highchair available.
Free roadside parking.
Enclosed rear garden with a patio and furniture.
Sorry, no pets and no smoking.
Shop and pub within 0.1 miles.
Please note: There is no facility to charge cars at the property but there is an EV charging point within 100 yards for public use
Nearby points of interest
- Carsluith Castle
Reviews (54)
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Evelyn
I didn't use the open fire as it wasn't needed but I think it's a lovely touch. The underfloor heating makes everything very cosy. The bed (double, single wasn't used) is very comfortable although the duvet isn't winter warm (there are blankets, though). Shower is excellent. The cooker is really good but the frying pans and wok are beyond their best and there was a lack of decent utensils such as fish-slice, non-stick spoons. Parking can be tricky close to the house, especially as there is renovation work going on next door. The back gate is very stiff to use, although provides easy access to the Priory. Despite these issues I think this is a great wee property and very good value for money.
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Christine
We personally loved it but would be better going a different time of year as most places in the area where closed for winter.
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Graham
The open fire with lots of peat was a real bonus. The kitchen facilities are good and up to date, however it was cold to sit for meals. There were quite a lot of cobwebs and could do with a deep clean. The storage under the single bed with extra pillows were covered in dust making them unusable. And the ongoing renovations next door (drilling, hammering, sawing etc) from 8am till about 4pm was a distraction. However, it is in a lovely location with lots to see and do.