Guests say
Barnacle Cottage in Sandyhills is praised for its cosy comfort, stunning location ideal for birdwatching and nature lovers, and a peaceful atmosphere. Guests appreciate the well-equipped kitchen, comfortable beds, and the added bonus of a woodburning stove. The presence of wildlife, including barnacle geese, enhances the experience. The cottage's garden is appreciated by both children and pets.
Most guests find the cottage clean and tidy, with only one mention of needing further cleaning upon arrival. The overall standard is high, but attention to detail could be improved.
The location is highly praised for its proximity to nature reserves, ideal for birdwatching and peaceful walks. The serene and beautiful surroundings contribute to a relaxing stay, although it is noted that amenities are a drive away.
Guests consistently describe the cottage as cosy, comfortable, and homely, with comfortable beds and a warm atmosphere. The only concern raised is the suitability of the shower over bath for older guests.
The cottage is well-equipped with WiFi, a selection of DVDs, and a woodburning stove. However, some guests mention that the WiFi had initial teething problems and that the bathroom heating could be improved.
While guests appreciate the provision of bird seed for the bird table, there are no consistent mentions of gifts or thoughtful touches that would warrant a score in this category. Therefore, the score is set to null.
About this property
Discover the breath-taking scenery, wildlife, culture and history of Dumfries & Galloway whilst staying in a cosy cottage located in the heart of RSPB Mersehead Nature Reserve.
Barnacle is a semi-detached traditional stone farm cottage with off-road parking. A log burner keeps the cottage warm and cosy throughout the winter months. The perfect family destination, RSPB Mersehead has a stunning beach and sand dunes just a short walk (1-mile) from the cottage, perfect for building sandcastles and driftwood lodges. In the large farmhouse garden, there is a playground with swings, slide, mud kitchen and badger tunnels providing hours of fun.
Located on the scenic northern shore of the Solway Estuary, the large skies and seascapes give a feeling of escape. RSPB Mersehead is an extensive wetland nature reserve internationally important for the population of wintering Svalbard Barnacle geese and wildfowl. In the spring, the evening air is alive with sound of displaying Lapwing and the distinctive chorus the UK's rarest amphibian, the Natterjack Toad. Tree sparrow and Yellowhammer come to feed from the cottage bird table. Watch for hunting Peregrines, Merlins, and Hen Harriers overhead.
A haven for wildlife, away from Mersehead there are an additional four rspb reserves to discover; Ken-Dee Marshes, Wood of Cree, Crook of Baldoon and at Scotland’s most southerly point, the Mull of Galloway. WWT Caerlaverock can be found just the other side of Dumfries and there are a number of Scottish Wildlife Trust and Local Nature Reserves to explore.
There are great rock pooling adventures to be found at nearby Rockcliffe or try crabbing from the quay at Kippford. In addition to the wonders of nature, a vast array of attractions will keep young families entertained for hours such as the Dino Park, Cream O Galloway, Mabie Farm Park and the Chocolate Factory. The Camera Obscura, installed in 1836, is on the top floor of the old windmill tower where you can see a fascinating panoramic view of Dumfries and the surrounding countryside.
Dumfries & Galloway is full of history waiting to be discovered. A wide moat, twin-towered gatehouse and lofty battlements make Caerlaverock Castle a medieval stronghold. Learn all about its turbulent history as a castle caught up in border conflicts. Unravel the tale of devotion behind Sweetheart Abbey’s evocative name. Follow in the footsteps of Robbie Burns as you trace the banks of the River Nith from the heart of Dumfries and don’t forget to visit Moat Brae where Peter Pan began. On a wet day, there is plenty of opportunity to explore indoors. Discover the remarkable story of HM Factory Gretna and the Solway Military Coast at The Devil’s Porridge Museum. Visit the home of runaway weddings at Gretna Green, now a 5-star visitor destination or explore the Aviation Museum.
For those looking for a fast-paced action holiday, rspb Mersehead is located just a short drive from two Forestry Commission 7-stanes mountain bike trails at Mabie Forest and Dalbeattie Forest. A little further afield are the trails in the Galloway Forest Park and the Ae Forest. The Galloway Activity Centre is situated on the banks of the stunning Loch Ken. A challenging links course, Southerness Golf Course is a Scottish Golf Championship Venue whilst Colvend Golf Course offers a parkland experience with panoramic views from the high cliffs.
rspb Mersehead is the perfect base from which to discover Scotland’s forgotten corner.
More information about rspb Mersehead Nature Reserve can be found at: https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/mersehead/
Postcode: DG2 8AH
Damage Deposit £150
EPC:E
Let weekly Saturday - Saturday. Short breaks are accepted between May & end of August if booked within 6 weeks of arrival, please call us to book a short break
For parties of 2 or less a £20 discount will be applied on weekly bookings. A discount of £50 will be applied when 2 consecutive weeks are booked regardless of party size. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer
Accommodation for 4 on one floor: Lounge/dining room; kitchen, bathroom with shower over bath; one double bedroom; one twin bedroom.
Services: * Electric heating (cost included) *Multi Fuel stove with fuel provided * Bed Linen and Towels included * Electric cooker & Microwave * Washing machine * Fridge/Freezer * TV with DVD * Wifi * Highchair and cot available on request * Enclosed garden with furniture * Parking * No Smoking * Dogs: Maximum 2 well behaved dogs with own bedding (Additional charges apply), not to be left on their own or allowed on furniture or beds.
Additional accommodation is available next door in Shelduck Cottage
Reviews (22)
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Confirmed Guest
A very nice cosy cottage and lovely quiet location. Everything you could possibly need in the kitchen, beds comfy and once the heating was turned up no need for the log burner to be lighted. The only criticism was the heating in the bathroom. The towel rail needs to be working - there is nothing worse than damp towels. The wall heater would only come on for 10-15 seconds at a time. Appreciated the bird seed as it was so good to see them come onto the bird table whilst having breakfast. RSPB centre just up the road and loved the circular walk round the reserve. Would recommend and would have given it 5 stars if the heating in the bathroom was working.
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Pam Rogerson
Wonderfull week immersed in gentle quiet landscape and seascape on a beautifully managed and looked after RSPB reserve. Great views from Barnacle cottage and easy walking around the reserve and to the bird hides. Saw snipe, hare, roe deer, kestrel and barnacle geese flying in + lots of other birds. Great bird feeder in front of the cottage. Barnacle cottage itself was very clean, well provided with everything one needed and was warm, comfortable and cosy. It didn’t bother me but the decor was a bit tired so the cottage would benefit from re-decoration and attention to the sitting room lighting. Otherwise all good and I will return.
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Confirmed Guest
Great cottage in a fab location. Recommended, particularly if you have a dog.