The Precinct House

We loved our stay at The Precinct house.

The house is so warm and welcoming , it’s like going back in time, but with all the mod cons. Would definitely go back again and again

Lovely clean house, nice decor.

Very uncomfortable sofa needs replacing, was bit disappointed there were no Xmas decorations as we stayed 6-20th Dec. Loved the kitchen! Maybe a little welcome pack would be nice like we have had in every other rental weve stayed in. We did get a pint of milk & 6 biscuits, coffee & teabags. Absolutely loved the location.

A lovely warm, cosy and comfortable cottage right in the heart of Whithorn.

Perfectly placed to explore the area. The cottage is really well equipped with everything needed for a relaxing home from home stay. Even though this property is on the main street, it was not at all noisy. The only reason I have marked it down on accuracy of listing is because there was no photo of the bedroom on the web site and although it was in the information, yes, my fault, I missed that. My wife is claustrophobic and so the four poster bed, although very comfortable, is not something I would have booked had I known.

If shiny, slick, spotless and modern is your thing then book a different property.

If you enjoy staying somewhere that has been sympathetically renovated and furnished, so you have a real sense of age and character, then The Precinct House should tick your boxes. I loved the quirky feel, the furniture, pretty much everything! As we had brilliant weather we turned off all of the heating so I can't comment on that. The double bed is firm but very comfy. The sofa is rather low, but as I am 4ft 10 it was perfect. The shower is great with masses of hot water. While we didn't use the indoor heating or fire, we enjoyed a few nights lighting the chimenea in the courtyard garden and sitting out enjoying the peace. We had a brilliant week here and would recommend it. Whithorn is a lovely quiet spot, a couple of general stores, a couple of great cafes, and I can also recommend The Harbour Bar in Garlieston for pub meals. It's a stunning drive along the coast to Stranraer for Tesco & Morrisons. So what if you can spot a couple of cobwebs (I don't bother to look) or there could be a few more kitchen utensils, it's a house we fell in love with!

I really liked the quirky nature of this property.

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.

Lovely old character filled cottage.

We personally loved it but would be better going a different time of year as most places in the area where closed for winter.

Precinct House is cosy and full of character.

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.

Wonderfully welcoming, warm, very well equipped.

Clear arrival instructions and helpful host.

1st impression.

We found it quirky and quite cosy. After a couple of days, there was intrusive road noise ( due to poorly fitting front door), also building work next door, which we were not aware of. Sofa and chair were worn and uncomfortable. Food storage cupboard was full of out of date and greasy products left by previous renters. Kitchen facilities were OK, but high level cleanliness was poor( ceiling lights greasy and dusty). Comfortable bed let down by worn mattress protector and bedding. Lovely shower and the peat fire made the stay acceptable. Tv very poor.

A lovely old house with all the modern facilities you would need.

Very clean and always warm. Welcome pack of tea, coffee, hot chocolate and milk provided. A pretty little garden. Central village location, parking easy. Comfortable beds. Quiet and peaceful. Interesting and historic area. We really enjoyed our break, would recommend.

An amazing cottage ideally situated for exploring the local area.

A beautiful, characterful house, which made a perfect base for our holiday.

Simply lovely.

A well maintained and equipped town house in a lovely part of the country.

Only one small issue was that the arm chair in the front room was really uncomfortable.

Lovely cottage.

The restoration makes it an attractive and unusual choice, and it fits really well with the area, which is so rich in history. A bonus is that all mod cons are cleverly concealed behind the period furniture and fittings. Lots to do in the area, a warm welcome from the people at the Whithorn Trust.

Ecxellent period propderty yet with all mod cons.

The underfloor heating kept us snug and warm and a real fire for added comfort. A superb location ith lots of intetresting places nearby, highly recommended.

What a fantastic place.

We loved the space and the furnishings. It had every thing we needed.

A stunning cosy period property with antique furniture and replica gas/oil lamps with a working peat fire.

This was easily the best property I've stayed in and I wouldn't hesitate to return or recommend to friends.

Lived up to the photos, full of character, warm and welcoming atmosphere, everything you need.

Only ?s were rather 'firm' seating, and unclear re waste disposal( recycling etc) but would definitely go back. Lovely position in the middle of town, and plenty of information about the town and surrounding area. Well worth a visit.

We had a very enjoyable and comfortable stay.

The Precinct House is a little jewel, one of the best cottages we have ever stayed in.

My family and I had a wonderful experience.

It was as listed, clean, and we had everything to make our holiday special. I will happily recommend this cosy cottage. There are a lot of nice places around, the local people are very friendly, and the food is amazing. I will recommend to everyone to go and eat locally, especially to try: Railway Inn Pub food; Central Cafe's fish and chips; and Steam Packet Inn food.

The Precinct House is an extremely pleasant cottage located in a very scenic part of Scotland.

The cottage offers more amenities than listed on the website such as a washing-machine and a dishwasher. It is very warm and has a very well-equipped kitchen. The bed in the main bedroom is exceptionally comfortable. All in all we had a wonderful stay in a delightful little snug.

A fantastic cottage.

So warm during the cold weather. We had long walks each day in an area new to us. It was stunning. Will return!

Lovely stay.

Only gripe was the very uncomfortable seating

Nice cottage in a very quiet location, it closely matches the description online.

Would stay at this type of cottage again but unfortunately not in that location which was pretty dead in November. Also there was some misinformation: you listed a nearby pub, there isn’t one. You listed a nearby cafe, it’s open 4 days a week for just 4 hours. You listed many household items we should take with us, but they were provided at the cottage. In short the cottage was fine but the some of the advice quite misleading. I’d strongly recommend that the person writing the Sykes entry actually stay at the cottage for a few days. All that notwithstanding the area was beautiful, the people we met were friendly, the weather was lovely (in November!!!) and we had a great break.

We were back to this beautiful house and majestic Scotland and we really enjoyed our stay.

You go back in time, you are surrounded by great, well thought decor and you feel it's yours for the week you stay. Homely, fire place, flower, biscuits, variety of coffee, tea. Thank you Julia

This excellent old cottage is beautifully presented with a wealth of contemporary furniture as well as a four-poster bed.

The kitchen is equipped with all necessary items for a comfortable stay. We greatly enjoyed our week in this interesting area, full of fascinating historical places - and some good pubs!

A lovely old house with period character and modern facilities.

The wifi worked well and we accessed the TV via that on a computer rather than trying the televisions. Hot weather so the secluded garden was well used.

The cottage was very good in every way.

A very beautiful period house with Georgian decor yet modern facilities including underfloor heating.

Perhaps the most beautiful building we have stayed in and so convenient for access to many of the areas attractions. My only gripe is that there were 3 of us but only two comfortable seats for evening relaxing the settee was fine and looked the part but the wing chair definitely needs re-upholstering. But this is nitpicking and we would definitely reccommend the place with 5 stars.

Lovely quirky little cottage, very peaceful location enjoyed my time there.

This is one of the nicest places I have stayed.

The house is cosy and comfortable and full of character and perfectly equipped for a stay of any length. This is our third stay and we hope to be back again!

Exceeded expectations.

I was concerned when I went to bed. The mattress was VERY firm, but it provided me with the best sleep I've had in months (ruptured disc in my neck). I will be ordering a similar one, now that I have returned home. That said, I will agree with those who have mentioned the lounge furniture. Restuffing the seat cushions would not come amiss. The villagers were warm and welcoming and the proximity to so many areas of interest and beauty ensures a return visit.

The property is very good ,however there are evidence of damp in main bedroom ,there isn’t any heating upstairs radiators not working ,and sockets are in areas that don’t support needs .

The beds are supper comfy but a thicker duvet in the cooler season may be better however there were blankets provided in an ottoman in bedroom . The underfloor heating downstairs very good but the radiator in bathroom doesn’t work so towels still damp when needed next . The T V didn’t work . The settee and chair are very firm although they are in keeping with the furnishing in the room they are not very comfortable. Everything else is beautiful ,quirky and inviting when you arrive . There was fresh milk and beverage for you when arrived . Kitchen very well equipped . The actual area was disappointing as we were just out of season and everything was shut and even travelling to other areas which is a while away it was bleak. Also the mood of residents and business staff were not welcoming just sad . This is a place I won’t be going to again as it’s facility’s are very limited . This is just my opinion .

Brilliant place.

The house has been renovated really well and feels quite special to stay in. It was warm and comfortable and we had a great time. There are some good walks and places to see locally and the Railway pub does some good value meals and has some nice local beers.

Lovely home feel like a small castle

Utterly gorgeous cottage.

Wonderful village. Lovely people.

The cottage was lovely, location quiet and filled with lovely walks and nature.

The cottage was clean and well equipped, warm and we loved the open fire (thank you for the milk and welcome tray) The bed was comfy, the shower was lovely, the only issue we had was the sofa and the chair were both uncomfortable.

MY friend and I had a lovely holiday in Precint House.

In fact I have already recommended it to some friends. My only issue would be the second bedroom regarding the height of the bed. I totally understand it is in keeping with everything else in the house. However may I suggest a small stepping stool for getting in and out. I will admit that this is a bit selfish because I used that bed (which was really comfortable and wonderful duvet). However I have some physical health issues, now I managed to ve careful getting in and out of bed. However in one night in the middle of the night I dropped my pillow accidentally on to the floor leaned down to thr floor to pick it up without thinking and of course I couldn't push myself back up so tried to slide onto the floor and we'll it didn't work and I bashed my forehead. Thankfully apart from a bump and headaches was fine. Please do not not take this as a complaint but just A suggestion. Whithorn was such a friendly place to be and you never had very far to travel to different places in thr surrounding area. Loved thr Musem and Roundhouse. From thr moment we opened thr front door we were just overjoyed and were grateful for thr lovely flowers reas and biscuits that awaited us. Thank you for providing such a special holiday home. Angie Shannon. Ps WE were of course really sad to have to leave on Thursday morning due to illness in my friends family

Quaint little cottage in middle of Whithorn.

Unique features in oldie worldie cottage but needs some updates. Sofa and main chair in front room requires re-upholstering as they cause back pain and are generally uncomfortable, we’re also convinced we were getting bitten by some form of insect whilst on sofa. Main bedroom needs electrical point near a main mirror for hair drying etc. Property quite dark even with all blinds / curtains open. Had to keep lights on in certain rooms. On the plus side, very central for exploring this part of Scotland. Accommodation has pretty much all the facilities you need for a comfortable stay. The Railway Pub (5 minute walk away), is a nice place to have your evening meals if you can’t be bothered to cook with the ample cooking equipment in the kitchen. Just needs a few little tweaks to make this a 5 star property instead of a 4.

Superbly converted Georgian house with everything in place.

Beng right in the centre of Whithorn makes it ideal for the Priory, the Whithorn Story etc. Very comfortable four-poster bed. Inevitably it's somewhat dark for reading.

A well equipped house with everything you need for a holiday.

We were very happy with the property very clean well equipped with everything we needed.

Everything you need in an historic building.

Including fridge & a freezer not mentioned in listing and not shown in photos. Sofa is needing replaced soon but still OK. Sleeps 3 upstairs but take note toilet and shower is downstairs.

Satisfied returning residents.

We were very pleased with the cottage which excelled our expectations.

It was superbly equipped and it was delightful to find the conveniences of a dishwasher and washing machine tucked behind period features. It is in a wonderful location for a quiet and relaxing break.

Adorable cosy cottage.

We loved our stay in Whithorn and in this cottage. Highly to recommend.

Lovely cottage, really quirky it was like stepping back in time but with all the modern day comforts.

Location is great for visiting the Galloway national park which is absolutely stunning.

We had a lovely fortnight at The Precinct House in September 21.

Amazing history in the area and the museum is an absolute must. This is a lovely cottage and we enjoyed our stay however, I do think you need to update the sofa and chair. They look wonderful in the photos but really are not very comfortable or practical. We stayed 2wks and it really tainted our stay in the end as they were so uncomfortable. Other than this, it's a lovely place to stay. Would I recommend? Absolutely, I would!

Absolutely stunning house we really enjoyed our stay I was nervous coming away with a six week old but baby Angus loved it too my dad has a house in Whithorn so we are frequent visitors we would definitely stay here again just gorgeous thankyou

Lovely, individual house, extremely cosy, comfortable and well appointed.

Really enjoyed our stay.

Such an interesting place.

Stepping back in time but with all the mod cons carefully hidden. Warm and comfortable.

This is a truly unique property that combines sympathetic, period, high quality refurbishment with excellent (concealed) modern facilities.

It is surprisingly spacious for a couple or for a couple plus one, and warm. It is well placed for the shops within historic Whithorn and an ideal base for exploring the Machars. Highly recommended.

A lovely traditional cottage, we really loved the rooms and the location.

A stunning cottage in a cheerful and friendly village.

Lots to do close by. The cottage was very clean and all steps had been taken to make it COVID safe. I would highly recommend.

Excellent facilities, loved the underfloor heating.

Like stepping back in time to our childhoods (we are both OAPs)… Managed a few walks between showers and wind. St Ninian’s cave especially memorable. We hope to come back in the future, hopefully when the museum and local attractions are open again… Jane Grieve

The welcome pack provided, was greatly appreciated.

The information folder on the accommodation and the local bus timetable, was accurate and very useful. The warmth and ambience of Precinct House, added to the enjoyment of our holiday. A greatful thank you to the caretaker and the National Trust, for this property and preservation of an excellent place of heritage.

Because of your booking mistake my daughter had to leave a day early so lm out 110 pounds its,was extremely stressful especially as l sent her away to for a break after loosing her baby.

..l will not use or recommend your site again and wish for a refund...as l tried to phone it took me 40 minutes to get through...

The property not only looked beautiful it was also very well equipped.

And what a privilege to be able to park in front of the front door! There was just one glitch on arrival. The heating did not appear to be working, nor did the lights in the kitchen. We immediately called the owner who, just as immediately, came to the rescue. She and my husband checked the fusebox and corrected the problem.The lack of underfloor heating seemed to be due to a well-meaning person turning the thermostat too low.

A beautifully appointed cottage in the centre of a great community.

There were fresh flowers and a welcome tray for arrival, with little luxuries like coffee bags and grounds too, and a peat fire all made up - very thoughtful. The style and furnishings in the cottage are really something special - we loved it. The only things to change are in the listing - we didn't know that there was a DVD player, plus a washer/dryer available in the cottage! Unexpected bonuses.

Great cottage, great setting.

Loved every minute of our stay. Couldn't fault it.

A beautifully maintained characterful cottage.

Well equipped and spotlessly clean. We enjoyed staying in Whithorn and loved the surrounding area: great coastal walks, interesting history and good places to eat.

This cottage is so unique and quirky.

Loved it. All mod cons and the cleanest most welcoming accommodation. The staff who look after it should be warmly thanked. They do a brilliant role. Cafe next door do fab baking too. Would we come back ….you bet we would.

The property was as listed but did not mention that there was a dishwasher and washing machine/- both a bonus.

Some lovely beaches and scenic drives on quiet roads. The sunshine was another bonus.

Really well appointed holiday let and although it is in a small village and there is no garden as such there is a pleasant yard with plants and a pergola to sit in good weather.

Whithorn sadly lacks a pub or a restaurant but does have a good fish and chip shop and it also sells home made ice cream, situated just a few doors away. The surrounding area is beautiful and careful research indicates some nice places to eat. A highlight was the stylish Cafe Melba at Bladnoch Distillery on the outskirts of Wigtown. The Crafty Distillery at Newton Stewart is also worth a visit. The Pheasant at Sorbie is very good and much better than the overrated Steam Packet Inn at Isle of Whithorn where the waiting staff were rather unwelcoming and the food did not live to to its description, although it is beautifully situated.

All mod cons within a beautifully restored Georgian setting.

A lovely peaceful hideaway on the Machar peninsular. There was plenty to see and do and the weather was beautiful.

Quaint and warm property.

Bed comfy. Kitchen and shower-room fine. One reasonably comfortable armchair, but chaise-longue very low and difficult to get up from. All other chairs wooden and not comfy at all. With the exception of the sun-room when the sun did shine, I found it very dark with no decent lights making it difficult to read/do crossword.

The cottage was quaint and cosy had a fabulous time loved the open fire and four poster bed will definitely be back