Bonny Bluebell

Bonny Bluebell: Dumfries and Galloway

Offering stunning sea views across Loch Ryan near Kirkcolm in southwest Scotland, this garden cottage is the perfect country and coastal retreat to get away from it all and immerse yourself in beautiful, pristine nature. The home is part of the 18th-century Corsewall Estate surrounded by twenty acres of woodland and gardens – all for you to enjoy. From snowdrops, daffodils and bluebells in the winter and spring to a riot of colourful rhododendrons and azaleas in summer, you’ll be instantly struck by the vibrancy of your locale with countless walking and cycling routes around them to explore. Inside your home, a picturesque living room is arranged around a wood-burning fireplace, ideal for curling up with a glass of wine and some board games. The sunny kitchen, meanwhile, is all set to get mornings off to a hearty start over breakfast or afternoons snacks courtesy of the homemade brownies, milk, bread, jam, butter, tea and coffee provided. We love the country bedrooms with their floral touches and large windows proffering views across the gardens and towards the Loch, while the en-suite tubs invite long, luxurious baths after a day in the great outdoors. With a private garden equipped with a barbecue and croquet set, you can spend lazy afternoons having fun in the sun, or head to the nearby woods where a campfire beckons ghost stories over toasted marshmallows under a blanket of stars – your host even provides a tent and roll mats should you wish to snooze amidst the trees (all you need is your sleeping bag). Factor in the estate’s dedicated play areas that offer a zip-wire, a climbing frame, swings, and a trampoline and there’s more than enough fun for the whole family. Boat Bank Beach is also a short walk down the estate’s drive and Lady Bay – a shell collector’s dream – is a ten-minute drive away. Further afield, the charming fishing village of Portpatrick is also only twenty minutes away by car.

Home truths:
*The home is part of a larger estate, so you may be sharing some of the outdoor amenities with your neighbours
*Up to two well-behaved dogs are welcome to stay for a fee of £25 per dog, per week, is required or £20 for a short break – dogs should be kept off the furniture and beds, and they must not be allowed to disturb the wildlife while out walking
*A welcome pack with homemade brownies, jam, milk, bread, butter, tea, coffee and fresh flowers is provided
*Two of the bedrooms are located up a flight of wooden stairs that may prove difficult for those with limited mobility
*A cot and a high chair are available on request
*We recommend having a car here – on-site parking is available