Guests say
The Pend, a historical cottage in Newton Stewart, is praised for its atmospheric charm, cleanliness, and thoughtful touches like a welcome pack. Guests enjoy the property's warmth, comfort, and unique period features, though some mention the bathroom facilities and kitchen could be improved. The location is appreciated for its convenience and the area's tranquility.
The property is consistently described as clean and well-presented, with several reviews highlighting its exceptional cleanliness. One negative review mentioned mould, but this seems to be an isolated view.
The location is generally well-regarded, with guests appreciating the convenience of local amenities and parking. The peacefulness of the area and its proximity to attractions are also noted.
Many guests find the property comfortable, warm, and cosy, with a historic charm. However, some guests mention issues with furniture comfort and a noisy heating system in the main bedroom.
The property's facilities receive mixed reviews. Guests are pleasantly surprised by the presence of a dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer. However, there are several comments about the need for improvements in the bathroom and kitchen, and the lack of modern conveniences like brighter lighting.
Guests frequently mention the welcome pack and other thoughtful extras, which contribute positively to their experience. It should be noted that such gifts, while appreciated, are not guaranteed for every stay.
About this property
This lovingly restored gatehouse to the Priory at Whithorn, can be found in the centre of the former Royal Burgh of Whithorn in Dumfries and Galloway. The Pend is a remarkable listed building, and a National Trust for Scotland property in a central location for discovering The Machars and the Galloway Forest Park. Offering traditional accommodation for four guests, this property is ideal for a couple, small family or group wanting to explore this fascinating region of Scotland. This property exudes history and rests next door to The Priory, which once housed the relics of St Ninian, who died in 431 AD. Parking is available on a neighbouring driveway and as you enter the property, you will discover a living/dining room, the first of two reception rooms, with a large exposed stone feature fireplace, housing a woodbrning stove, with cosy furniture careful placed in front, stunning dark wooden beams on the ceiling and a dining table, where the whole group can gather to enjoy a meal, prepared in the compact but well-equipped kitchen. There is a family bathroom with a bath and hand held shower, where you can get ready for each day, while upstairs are two bedrooms; a twin room with back-to-back beds, maximising the space in the room, as well as a stunning king-size, four-poster double bedroom, complete with stunning 17th century windows that open out onto the street. There is a second sitting room on this floor, with exposed wooden flooring, ornate furniture and a TV you can enjoy watching. Outside is a rear, enclosed courtyard with furniture, where you can enjoy an alfresco breakfast or morning coffee, before heading into the town centre, where a selection of shops and pubs can be found less than a mile away. Whithorn is an Outstanding Conservation Area and one of Scotland's oldest settlements, home to Scotland's first Christian church, built in 397 AD by St Ninian, whose shrine can be visited at Whithorn Priory, following in the footsteps of many medieval pilgrims. Here you will find a visitors centre and stunning carved stone displays, while along the coast, you can see the isolated cave of St Ninian's Cave, thought to be a hideaway for the saint. Explore The Machars peninsula and discover quaint villages, rugged coastline, idyllic harbours and lovely sandy beaches. Head to Scotland's national book town, Wigtown to find French-style architecture, quirky shops, bookshops and tearooms and venture north towards the Galloway Forest Park to enjoy scenic walking and cycling trails through the largest forest in the UK and Scotland's first Dark Sky Park. An incredible, historic property to base your next getaway to 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 is renowned for having the first recorded Christian church is Scotland, built in 397 by St Ninian. The area of Whithorn is rich in history and is also home to a medieval priory and an archaeological site. Whithorn is situated on the Machars Peninsula in Dumfries and Galloway, home to spectacular gardens. 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.
Accommodation
2 bedrooms: 1 x king-size double, 1 x twin.
Ground-floor bathroom with bath, hand-held shower, basin, heated towel rail and WC.
Kitchen.
Living/dining room with woodburning stove.
First-floor sitting room
Oil fired central heating with underfloor heating and woodburning stove.
Electric oven and hob, microwave, TV and WiFi.
Fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Cot and highchair available.
Parking on neighbouring driveway.
Enclosed rear courtyard with furniture.
Sorry, no pets and no smoking.
Shop and pub within 0.1 miles.
Note: Master bedroom accessed by an additional set of stairs.
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
Reviews (24)
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Gail
However, we found the cottage to be too dark for our liking and struggled on the stairs and to read. The cottage had a quietness about it that made it comfortable but for us we found the furniture rather uncomfortable although we understand that it is all in keeping with the history of the building. It was a good base for a couple of nights but we would prefer something brighter with more comfortable sofas to stay longer.
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Stephanie
I will definitely come back for visits in the future.
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Sophie
Bathroom was cold was the only problem. Kitchen is small but effort made to make it work and great pub nearby. Great value and would go again.