Guests say
The Precinct House in Newton Stewart receives high praise for its unique charm, blending historical features with modern conveniences. Guests appreciate the well-equipped kitchen, cosy atmosphere, and thoughtful touches such as welcome packs. While most find the cottage comfortable and the location ideal for exploring, some mention the seating could be more comfortable and the village quieter.
Guests consistently note the property as very clean, with only one mention of high-level cleanliness being subpar. The overwhelming majority of reviews highlight the spotless condition, suggesting a high standard of cleanliness.
The location is generally praised for its proximity to Galloway National Park and historic Whithorn. However, some guests note the lack of local amenities such as pubs and restaurants, and occasional noise issues, leading to a slightly lower score.
While the property's bed and warmth are commended, several guests find the seating uncomfortable. The mixed feedback on comfort, particularly regarding the living room furniture, results in a moderate score.
The property is lauded for its excellent facilities, including a well-equipped kitchen and unexpected amenities like a dishwasher and washing machine. Some minor issues with maintenance are noted, but overall, the facilities are highly regarded.
Many reviews express gratitude for the thoughtful touches, such as welcome packs and prepared peat fires. While these gestures are greatly appreciated, it is important to note that such extras, though common, are not guaranteed for every stay.
About this property
This Georgian-style property can be found in the centre of the former Royal burgh of Whithorn in Dumfries and Galloway. The Precinct House is a National Trust for Scotland property in an excellent, central location for a couple or small family to discover the Machars, nearby coast and Galloway Forest Park. Enter the property to find it has been lovingly restored, whilst maintaining much of its character and history, with underfloor heating throughout helping to retain a cosy feel. The sitting room is complete with a bay window, woodburning stove and a choice of Georgian furniture to settle down onto. The lovely sun room has a glass ceiling and exposed stone walls, and provides a wonderful space to relax with a good back and enjoy some quiet time, while the kitchen/diner has attractive oak beams, a Belfast sink that looks out onto the sun room and a dining table to gather around to enjoy home-cooked meals. The shower room provides a place for you to get ready each morning, while upstairs are the two bedrooms, a single and a fantastic master bedroom with king-size four-poster bed. Outside there is roadside parking available, plus a rear enclosed garden with a patio and furniture, ideal for enjoying a morning coffee or an alfresco dinner. The Priory next door to the property once housed the relics of St Ninian, who died around 431AD, while Whithorn itself is an Outstanding Conservation Area and one of Scotland's oldest settlements, home to Scotland's first Christian church, built by St Ninian in 397 AD. Visit Whithorn Priory and follow the route taken by many medieval pilgrims who would visit St Ninian’s shrine, which can be found at the east end of the church, as well as carved stone displays and the Whithorn Story Visitor Centre and head to St Ninian's Cave on the coast, an isolated cave that was thought to be a hideaway for the saint. There are shops and pubs within a mile of the property, while the Galloway House Gardens botanical garden is within easy reach. Explore The Machars peninsula, packed with quaint villages, stunning coastal walks amidst rugged coastline, idyllic harbours and lovely sandy beaches. Head to Wigtown, the national book town of Scotland, filled with French-style architecture, quirky shops, bookshops and tearooms, holding many festivals throughout the year. Venture north towards the Galloway Forest Park, and enjoy scenic walking and cycling trails through the largest forest in the UK and Scotland's first Dark Sky Park, which also makes it one of the best places to stargaze in Europe. A fantastic, historical property well-placed for discovering 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 can be found on the Machars Peninsula in Dumfries and Galloway and is renowned for having the first recorded Christian church is Scotland, built by St Ninian around 397, the site of the Candida Casa, or White/Shining House, is now home to the parish church. The area of Whithorn is rich in history and is also home to a medieval priory and an archaeological site. The Machars and Rhins of Galloway are also home to spectacular gardens, a result of the Gulf Stream and mild climate. Logan Botanic Gardens, the Aldouran Wetland and the spectacular gardens of Castle Kennedy are all a must see. 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 single.
Ground-floor bathroom with walk-in shower, basin and WC.
Kitchen/diner.
Sitting room with woodburning stove.
Sun room
Oil fired central heating with underfloor heating and woodburning stove.
Electric oven and hob, microwave, radio, TV and WiFi.
Fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Cot and highchair available.
Free roadside parking.
Enclosed rear garden with a patio and furniture.
Sorry, no pets and no smoking.
Shop and pub within 0.1 miles.
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 (51)
-
Sue
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.
-
Tania
Clear arrival instructions and helpful host.
-
John
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.