North Mains Cottage - Craigievar Castle
ID: S282696
- Bedrooms 2
- ・ Sleeps 4
- ・ Pets 2
Guests say
North Mains Cottage, nestled near Craigievar Castle, offers a tranquil retreat with picturesque surroundings. Guests appreciate the property's cleanliness, cosy atmosphere, and the opportunity for peaceful walks. While some maintenance issues are noted, the charm of the cottage and its location often outweigh these concerns. The absence of technology is seen as a bonus by many seeking a restful stay.
The cottage generally receives positive remarks for cleanliness, with guests finding it tidy upon arrival. However, there are isolated complaints about cobwebs, dead flies, and a dirty bathroom, suggesting occasional lapses in thoroughness.
The location is highly praised for its beauty and tranquillity, with unrestricted access to castle grounds and opportunities for wildlife encounters. It serves as a perfect base for historical explorations and is appreciated for its peacefulness.
Guests find the cottage comfortable and cosy, with a warm atmosphere and restful environment. Some guests mention uncomfortable beds and seating, which affects the overall comfort experience.
Facilities are generally well-regarded, with a well-equipped kitchen and modern bathroom. However, maintenance issues like a tepid shower, broken window, and power outages detract from the overall experience.
There is insufficient information regarding any thoughtful gestures or gifts provided by the hosts, so it is not possible to assess this category accurately.
About this property
Alford 5.4 miles. Originally built as a home for the workers of the National Trust for Scotland’s 18th century Craigievar Castle estate, North Mains Cottage is a charming semi-detached dwelling offering four guests a wondrous base for an adventure to Aberdeenshire. After a stroll around the parkland, take a seat on the inviting sofa, beside the traditional woodburning stove in the living/dining room, soaking up the delightful décor of the room. North Mains Cottage has been carefully furnished in an antique, country style, in keeping with its history, and there are plenty of unique delights to find, including a beautiful antique chest, which houses the TV. Head into the bright and spacious kitchen, with sunny yellow walls and a host of appliances to assist you in cooking up a feast for your loved ones, as well as a handy washing machine and dishwasher. Serve up your home cooked feast in the dining area at the classic round table, before retiring upto one of the two bedrooms for your night’s rest. Choose from two lovely twin bedrooms, with plenty of storage for your things and Scottish tartan blankets, they offer the perfect setting for waking up to views of the splendorous castle's pink turrets and stunning estate grounds. The charming ground floor bathroom features traditional wood-panelled walls and is home to a bath with an overhead shower, where you can freshen up and prepare for the day ahead. Spend quality time with your loved ones in this idyllic setting at North Mains Cottage. This property can be booked with Refs. 1060434, 1060436, together sleeping 15 guests.
Alford is a small rural town resting in Aberdeenshire sitting by the River Don and the hills of Bennachie and Coreen. The town boasts a rich history as it is home to the Battle of Alford battleground, Alford Heritage Centre and the Grampian Transport Museum. Alford has a variety of shops, with a local butcher and a pub, as well as local fish van visiting every Tuesday and a fish and chip van every Thursday. Just outside the town is the spectacular Craigievar Castle, while Alford also has Alford Golf Course and Haughton and Murray country park.
Accommodation
Two first floor bedrooms, 1 double, 1 twin.
Ground-floor bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC.
Kitchen.
Living/dining room with woodburning stove
Electric central heating with wood burning stove( Please provide own logs).
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge freezer, washing machine, dishwasher.
TV and DVD player.
Fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Cot and highchair available.
Off-road parking for 2 cars close to the cottage.
Access to the castle grounds.
Two well-behaved dogs welcome.
Sorry, no smoking.
Shop & pub 5.3 miles.
Holiday guests have access to the estate grounds outside of the regular opening hours.
There is no WiFi at this property and mobile phone reception can be poor.
If the Accommodation becomes inaccessible due to bad weather the National Trust for Scotland will take all reasonable steps to inform you and to offer an alternative National Trust for Scotland property.
The opening times, visitor facilities and entry prices of all National Trust for Scotland properties and attractions can be viewed on their website here.
The Charging of electric vehicles is not permitted.
Nearby points of interest
- Grampian Transport Museum
- Ballater VisitScotland iCentre
- Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve
Reviews (25)
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Nicholas
Lovely setting. My only helpful point is about the shower which I rate as poor due to the lack of water pressure (needs a pump?) and you can only have it on the middle setting, on the high setting it is either scalding or freezing.
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David
Had a power outage one evening but it was dealt with by the caretaker and power restored in 4 hours. Torch provided as part of cottage equipment didnât work so John supplied me with a super replacement. Ideal location for peace and quiet as well as a centre for exploring the Highlands. Iâve already booked for next year.
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Andrew
Castle visit is a must, lovely staff. Nice walks around the estate which our wee dog (School) loved. Beautiful countryside to explore and we would recommend a visit to Leith Hall.