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Stable Retreat

(Ref. 1012106)

Dumfries, Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway Show on map

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Terms Apply

4.8

Sykes rating

  • 4 Guests

  • 2 Bedrooms

  • 1 Bathroom

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Garden / Patio
  • Washing machine
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance

41 Customer Reviews

  • "We enjoyed our stay despite all the rain."

    It’s a very quiet environment and a pleasant retreat. No problems with anything. It was easy to walk the dog.

    Reviewed by Michael5.0Sep 2023

  • "The surrounding area of Stable Retreat was very pretty and very peaceful."

    It was a good base for touring and sightseeing. Dumfries is a difficult place to park in. There are car parks and roadside parking available, but you need a parking disc. These are free but they are not freely available from shops in Dumfries. We did manage to obtain one from the council offices in English Street, and left it behind for other holiday makers to use. Stable Retreat was reasonably clean and comfortable, but there are a few areas where improvements could be made. A label to show there was another light switch for the light over the sink/cooker area. We thought the bulb had blown until we were told there was another switch. It was hidden under the upper cupboards and not noticeable unless you cocked your head, whilst sitting down. Dining chairs are incredibly hard. Seat pads would help with making them more comfortable. There was no bin bag in the kitchen bin, nor any in the cupboards. Although this may have been an oversight. There were no pillow or mattress protectors on the bedding, something that is perhaps a necessity in this post Covid era. The oven needs a clean. The door is dirty and the inside space is also in need of a deep clean. I do understand that not everyone cooks on holiday, but even so, the oven should be cleaned regularly.

    Reviewed by Frances4.1Sep 2023

  • "Location ideal for a quiet break with easy access to beaches, walks and tourist attractions."

    Very peaceful and relaxing, great to see wildlife like red squirrels and bunnies in natural habitat. Lovely clean, tidy and quirky property - just what we needed! Would highly recommend and definitely book again in future.

    Reviewed by Emma5.0Aug 2023

  • "Absolutely loved our stay in Stable Retreat."

    The cottage is perfect for exploring the area, and is so quiet and peaceful at night. I'm hoping we can come back one day

    Reviewed by Peter5.0Aug 2023

  • "Had a wonderful week staying at Stables Retreat."

    A great base for exploring Dunfries and Galloway. The cottage was lovely, well equipped, clean and tidy. A very comfortable stay. There are a LOT of stairs in the property. These were mentioned briefly on the listing in regards to toddlers, but should be highlighted for people with mobility issues too, as you have to climb stairs to move between rooms.

    Reviewed by Debbie4.4Jul 2023

  • "A very pleasant and unusual stay."

    Unusual layout but only added to its charm. Would have been helpful to provide some milk or at least let guests know what basics they need to consider, would save a trip back to Dumfries. Visitors should also be made aware of the poor state of the road leading to the entrance. dozens of pot holes for some half mile which unless approached carefully could cause damage to tyres or wheels. Nevertheless, a great place to stay and highly recommended.

    Reviewed by Michael4.7Jun 2023

  • "Stable retreat is a home away from home!"

    Angela was welcoming and available if we needed anything. The pictures don’t do this place justice! It is absolutely amazing and in a stunning location! There is always wildlife to be seen outside the kitchen window! The facilities were excellent and the bed is one of the comfiest beds I’ve slept on! We will definitely be coming back!

    Reviewed by Leah5.0Jun 2023

  • "A non slip mat in bath for showering would be useful"

    Reviewed by Anne5.0May 2023

  • "The Stable Retreat is a lovely cottage and set in beautiful surroundings."

    Very tasteful decor..Angela and Peter were very friendly.We had a wonderful holiday and look forward to staying again.

    Reviewed by Arthur5.0Apr 2023

  • "Stable Retreat is a very comfortable and well looked after place for a couple or family plus dog to stay, in a lovely rural location."

    It's quiet, with some lovely walks nearby but close enough to Dumfries for convenience. Our hosts were really friendly and we felt very welcome. Highly recommended.

    Reviewed by James5.0Apr 2023

  • "We had a lovely week at the Stable Retreat."

    The hosts were very dog friendly and it was a great location for walks. Straight out the door and lots of paths into the forest and beyond. The accommodation was great and really quirky, only 10 minutes drive to large supermarket for supplies. We based ourselves here but had days out to explore Dumfries and the local area. We have now declared it 'Dog Friendly Dumfries' as there were so many places we could go where four-legged friends were welcome. Really enjoyed our stay. Thank you.

    Reviewed by Marianne4.7Mar 2023

  • "Clean and tidy, good sized accommodation friendly owner."

    Property is surrounded by woodland very peaceful nice to watch rabbits and squirrels just outside the window

    Reviewed by Adrian5.0Mar 2023

  • "A very warm and comfortable cottage, peaceful and quiet with lots place's to walk."

    Dumfries and Galloway is such a beautiful part of Scotland. We look forward to coming back.

    Reviewed by David4.7Mar 2023

  • "The four of us had a great week at Stable Retreat!"

    The cottage is lovely, very clean, very well equipped, perfect for a family of four. Angela made us felt welcomed, beginning with the welcome pack that everyone appreciated after a long travel. The view on the woods is beautiful and we had nice walks inside it. From the cottage we went to the beautiful coast: sandyhills and rockcliffe, we enjoyed the lochs, we went to Glasgow and the Gem rock museum of creetown saved our day when it was raining too much to stay outside. We recommand this cottage and would be happy to go back.

    Fabienne, I'm so glad you all had a fabulous time with us at Stable Retreat. It's a shame the weather wasn't brilliant however it seems a little Scottish rain didn't stop you all from exploring the lovely countryside. Hope you manage a return visit sometime. Angela, Pete & Soot Property Owner

    Reviewed by Fabienne5.0Oct 2022

  • "We had a fantastic time on our first visit to Scotland."

    Stable Retreat is set in a beautiful location, was very clean and comfortable. The nights sky is spectacular on a clear night. Hosts Angela and Peter were lovely, thank you for your hospitality. Property served as a fantastic base for visiting the local monuments, castles, towns and lochs. Great for exploring the Scottish countryside. We also managed to visit Glasgow and Edinburgh during our stay, both of which are about 1.5hrs drive.

    Sean glad you had a lovely time with us and managed to explore Glasgow and Edinburgh both very different in architecture and culture. The night sky never fails to amaze our guests. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Sean5.0Oct 2022

  • "Lovely out of the way location, with a great forest walk nearby."

    Because it's in Dark Sky location the stars are unbelievable at night and well worth spending some time outside looking at them. Very quite location apart from the Owl's at night, which we loved. The accomodation is small & quirky as you go up and down stairs to get to the lounge, perfect for two people, bit small for 4 in my opinion, but would fit at a push. Owners were very friendly and helpful. Would recommend if you want a peaceful break, with Dumfries only 7 miles away and lot of other attractions not to far away.

    Thank you Paul for your lovely feedback and mentioning the stars, they are defiantly worth watching whilst visiting. The dark sky location is something we take for granted living here. Glad you enjoyed your stay. Angela & Pete Property Owner

    Reviewed by Paul4.4Sep 2022

  • "We had a lovely stay at Stable Retreat."

    Angela and Peter were really nice hosts and were very helpful and kind. Our wee granddaughter felt very comfortable with them and the cottage despite never having stayed away from home with her Scottish granny and grandad. Because I have a hip problem it would have been helpful to know how many stairs to deal with. I know it’s not their fault but I have to point out that the main road up to the driveway was full of lots of potholes. However I also point out that the lovely driveway up to the cottage was perfect.

    Carol, Thank you so much for your kind feedback. We have contacted the council re the pot holes on the road close to the property and hopefully some action will be taken soon by them. Regards Angela & Pete Property Owner

    Reviewed by Carol4.7Aug 2022

  • "The house was lovely, the grounds were stunning and the owners were very welcoming."

    Colin, Thank you so much for your lovely comments. We are really pleased you all enjoyed your stay with us here at Stable Retreat. Angela, Pete & Soot Property Owner

    Reviewed by Colin5.0Jul 2022

  • "Lovely cottage Lovely setting Well equipped Warm and cosy Great shower Owners very friendly and approachable What more could you ask for!"

    Reviewed by Davina5.0Apr 2022

  • "Lovely stay in the Stable Retreat."

    A cosy, warm cottage in a beautiful location with everything we needed. Thank you Peter and Angela.

    Mairi, Thank you for you lovely feedback, we are so pleased you enjoyed your stay with us. Angela & Pete Property Owner

    Reviewed by Mairi5.0Feb 2022

  • "Great location with friendly host."

    Gill & Chris, Thank you for your lovely feedback. We are really glad you enjoyed your cycling holiday and the weather stayed good for you. Hope to see you again. Angela & Pete Property Owner

    Reviewed by Christopher5.0Jan 2022

  • "The Stables is a beautiful and comfortable space, set in a fantastic location, with both Dumfries and nature walks nearby."

    The flat is very well equipped for cooking, and we also loved the powerful shower, the nice beds, towels and bedding. Angela and Pete are great hosts, kind, helpful and easy to contact. We will certainly come back.

    Thank you Pascale for you kind feed back. It was so lovely having you Alan and Elie staying with us over the Christmas holidays and we really do hope you come to stay again. Angela & Pete Property Owner

    Reviewed by Pascale5.0Dec 2021

  • "A really nice place to stay to enjoy such wonderful countryside, (especially in autumn)."

    We will certainly plan another visit. David P.

    Reviewed by Harold4.7Oct 2021

  • "Lovely, well presented cottage in a beautiful, quiet location."

    Owners are very helpful too.

    Reviewed by Carol5.0Aug 2021

  • "It is a very comfortable cottage, quiet and private and excellent for young families."

    Reviewed by Seamus4.7Jul 2021

  • "The setting was perfect."

    So relaxing with woodland walks and wildlife at the door yet lots of activities and places to visit within a short drive ( Galloway Activity Centre, Castle Douglas, Gem Rock Museum, Dumfries, Caerlaverock to name a few). The cottage was very comfortable with everything we needed, with the added bonus of the tennis court. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and could not fault anything at all. The hosts Angela and Pete could not have been more helpful from the thoughtful gift of wine, flowers and chocolates, providing advice on local walks, offering the use of their BBQ and also being lovely when I misplaced the key!

    Reviewed by Helen5.0Jul 2021

  • "I can’t recommend Stable Retreat highly enough."

    It certainly lives up to its name. The cottage itself was beautiful with all the amenities you could need and located in the most peaceful of settings, perfect for spotting squirrels, deer, rabbits and birds. Owners, Peter and Angela were extremely hospitable and always readily available to help with any queries we had. The location is ideal as you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere but only a ten minute drive and you’re in the centre of Dumfries with a number of a shops and restaurants etc. There is also so much to see and do in the surrounding areas, we only scratched the surface in a week. This place is most definitely worth a visit and we will most certainly be heading back to stay in the future.

    Reviewed by Joanne5.0Jul 2021

  • "The cottage is very different as it’s a part of what was the outbuildings of a large house no longer standing."

    It’s a lovely place to stay and ideally located for the Dumfries area of Scotland. The large forest area behind the cottage is all open to explore so great for your dog but do look out for ticks as common. The cottage does have stairs from the door up to a landing and then down from the landing to the kitchen area does.

    Reviewed by Andrew4.1Jun 2021

  • "Pro's: Location is beautiful."

    Soot the dog is gorgeous. Parking space. Wildlife seen from the window. Nice hot showers. Clean bedding. Con's: Dirty cutlery and crockery. Generally tired throughout - could use re-decoration throughout. Glass door on bathroom! - no one wants to be able to see someone sitting on the loo! Blunt kitchen knives - makes hacking through dinner prep a challenge. No secure garden if you wanted to take a dog. There is table and chairs outside but this is in the shade and in the car parking space. Can't open windows very wide to let in fresh air. For me - the lack of out door space to relax in in disappointing. Would especially be so in the summer months. Would be nice if info on the local area was provided - walks from the doorstep etc No lockable bike storage - just the space in the vestibule which meant clambering over the bikes if you're wanting to go out. No welcome pack - even though this is mentioned in the visitor book.

    Reviewed by Sally2.2May 2021

  • "Lovely peaceful location with wooded walks at your door."

    Very comfortable, great bed, powerful shower and well equipped kitchen with space for proper meal prep. Easy reach for shopping in Dumfries. Highly recommended for couples and families.

    Reviewed by Elizabeth5.0Apr 2021

  • "The Stable retreat was an absolutely wonderful experience."

    From the lovely and comfortable housing, to the supremely friendly hosts, to the tranquil woods behind we had a most wonderful time there. This is a place I would absolutely return to and would recommend to anyone who needs a place to say in the Dumfries area.

    Reviewed by Andrew5.0Nov 2020

  • "Stable Retreat is a unique and comfortable apartment situated in beautiful rural surroundings just outside Dumfries."

    The apartment was clean, well-equipped and the owners very helpful. We had a lovely relaxing break there and would definitely recommend.

    Reviewed by Alex5.0Oct 2020

  • "A very lovely property across two and a half floors."

    Very secluded and unbelievably quiet - the ideal place to relax and unwind but only ten minutes from the centre of Dumfries. One living/dining/kitchen area is plenty big enough for four people, one large double bedroom and a perfectly adequate second room with two single beds. Everything you need is provided and the accomodation is spotlessly clean. Set in the grounds of a demolished country house, the neighbours are not noticeable at all. Friendly hosts in Peter and Angela and definitely somewhere we can heartily recommend. We will be back before too long!

    Reviewed by Martin5.0Oct 2020

  • "Lovely accommodation ."

    Very welcoming hosts. Would definitely recommend.

    Reviewed by Lynn5.0Sep 2020

  • "We had a fantastic stay and the owners could not have been any more helpful."

    The place was very comfortable and felt like home from home for us, our 2 young kids and the dog. It had a lot of character and was in beautiful surroundings. Perfect getaway and definitely recommened it.

    Reviewed by Andrew5.0Sep 2020

  • "Lovely accommodation, beautifully furnished, clean and tidy throughout."

    Beautiful rural setting, a great base from which to explore the area . Loved our evening walks down the private road ,catching sight of the wild deer and red squirrel. A truly relaxing place.

    Reviewed by Ruth5.0Sep 2020

  • "Unique and Quirky property which was spotless throughout."

    Lovely isolated location. Owners went out of way to make sure all needs catered for. Their dog Soot was a particular hit with our son. Enjoyed exploring surrounding area and would definitely consider a return visit.

    Reviewed by Fay4.4Aug 2020

  • "We were delighted to discover scenic cycle routes right on the doorstep."

    The apartment is a relaxing retreat in a beautiful area.

    Reviewed by Lorna4.4Aug 2020

  • "Beautiful cottage, cozy but not too small plenty of space for our 11, 15 year old, us and our dog."

    Home from home with stunning countryside views!

    Reviewed by Donna4.7Feb 2020

  • "Great welcoming pack and the owners could not do enough for us."

    Very enjoyable stay in beautiful surroundings. Great base to return to after our outdoor activities.

    Reviewed by Gary5.0Dec 2019

  • "The stable retreat was beautifully decorated with everything we needed and lovely forest views out the living area windows."

    A very peaceful, yet central location for exploring the area. Unfortunately we didn’t get to explore the woods right behind the property, so we will need to come back to do so another time!

    Reviewed by Kate5.0Oct 2019

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Summary

  • Over two floors
  • Two bedrooms of first floor: 1 x king-size, 1 x twin beds
  • Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC
  • Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining and sitting area
  • Biomass central heating
  • Oven and hobs, microwave, fridge, washing machine, rotary washing line, TV, DVD player, and WiFi
  • Heating and electricity inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Ample off-road parking
  • Gravelled seating area
  • Lockable bike storage
  • One well-behaved dog welcome
  • Sorry no smoking
  • Shop 6 miles, Pub/Restaurant 7.4 miles
  • Tennis court available on request
  • Note: There is a steep drop by the rotary washing line
  • Note: You cannot access the property via the fire exit
  • Note: Due to the stairs, not suitable for toddlers

The property

Stable Retreat is a striking, comfortable getaway for those who want to chill and relax, for the more energetic who want to explore local towns and historic places, go for walks in the forest and countryside, or the sports enthusiast, looking for mountain bike parks, kayaking, fishing or golf.

Stable Retreat is part of Newtonairds House, a magnificent building, converted from the original stable block.

The property is in an idyllic setting, nestled on the edge of the woods easily accessible from your front door, surrounded by nature, red squirrels, deer, dairy cows, sheep etc.

You can follow the tracks, walk through the fields or venture into the dense forest.

It poses as a perfect property for a small family or group of friends wanting to enjoy a self-catered stay in picturesque Southwest Scotland - You won’t be disappointed with the peaceful, beautiful and relaxing location.

The property offers a quirky and stylish layout, an eclectic mix of furniture beautifully presented in a cosy, colourful and modern way.

The open plan kitchen and living area is compact and well laid out.

Kitchen: Clean white, functional and classic.

Dining/living area: Two-seater sofa and two comfortable leather chairs ideal to relax and unwind while soaking up the view of the trees from the windows, captivating whatever the season or the weather.

The biomass heating system makes this a cosy property.

The bathroom is on a landing half way up the stairs: very clean, with plenty of hot water for soaking after long walks or muddy activities.

Both bedrooms are on the first floor, stylishly presented, with quality bed linen, sheets and towels - Bedroom 1: King-size bed, plenty of hanging space and storage, view of a stunning monkey puzzle tree - Bedroom 2: Twin comfortable single beds, hanging and storage.

For the more active there is a Tennis Court onsite available on request at no extra charge.

MOUNTAIN BIKING: Five out of the 7 Stanes mountain bike centres lie within Dumfries and Galloway including: Mabie Forest 12 miles, Beginner to experienced riders.

Forest of Ae 17 miles, Dalbeatie 18 miles, renowned for its granite slabs and technical trails - There are also mountain bike trails at Drumlanrig Castle 17 miles.

WATERSPORTS: The area is good for whitewater, sea and flatwater kayaking.

FISHING: River Nith and Cairn Water (permits required) and various stocked trout lochs.

GOLF: Set within a great golfing area, with many different courses.

PLACES TO VISIT.

Dumfries: 8 miles, largest town in Dumfries and Galloway with many visitor attractions including a Museum, and Robert Burn’s house.

Galloway Forest: The UK’s first dark sky park, offers 300 square miles of wild beauty as magical by day as it is by night.

Clatteringshaws Visitor Centre, 29 miles.

Moniaive: 11 miles, has been named best overall small village in the ‘Nithsdale in Bloom’ competition 5 years in a row 2006-2011.

The village is also home to various festivals, and has an exceptional Italian restaurant.

Thornhill: 14 miles, a vibrant town with lots of interesting shops to browse.

Castle Douglas: 16 miles, 18th century market town, that is also a designated food town, with over 50 business selling food and drink.

Kirkcudbright: 25 miles, is a harbour town on the Solway, popular with artists.

It’s an attractive town with a colourful blend of medieval, Georgian and Victorian buildings.

EPC Rating: Band E

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About the location

DUMFRIES

Castle Douglas 18 miles; Gretna 30 miles; Kirkcudbright 40 miles; Lake District National Park 50 miles;

Known as the Queen of the South, Dumfries is a market town and former royal burgh and is the largest town in south west Scotland. It lies close to the mouth of the River Nith as it opens into the Solway Firth. Its origins are mysterious and are believed to involve at various times the ancient Romans, St Ninian and there is evidence of King Arthur having fought battles in the area. It is also held that Malcolm Canmore and William the Conqueror met here in the 11th century and William Wallace pursued the English through the surrounding Nith valley 200 years later. Robert the Bruce killed his rival John Comyn in the Greyfriars Kirk in Dumfries and Bonnie Prince Charlie stayed in the town for a few days in the mid 18th century and the poet Robert Burns moved to Dumfries in 1791 and staying until his death five years later. Today Dumfries is a bustling popular town with much to offer the visitor. Its location makes it ideal for exploring the coastline with its sandy beaches and rocky inlets to the Galloway Hills and Ae forest offering superb walking and cycling on the famous 7 stanes trails. Visit stunning Caerlaverock Castle and Nature Reserve or indulge in some high octane excitement with the Scottish Rally based in Dumfries each summer.