This spacious, detached country house is located in the Glenkens, the wildest and largest glen in Dumfries & Galloway, set in a landscape shaped by glaciers with rocky ridges and glacial deposits. The area has remained relatively unspoilt, and a wide variety of fantastic wildlife abounds within the spectacular landscape which ranges from mountains and moorland, woodland and forest, punctuated by burns, river, lochs and farmland.
Cumnock Knowes provides a perfect retreat in which to relax and unwind. It is situated in the Galloway Dark Sky Park, which is world renowned for its clear skies, and is one of the best stargazing sites as well as the first Dark Sky Park in the UK.
Dumfries and Galloway is an area hugely popular with walkers and mountain bikers, and the 7Stanes cycling trail at Dalbeattie is within easy reach.
Warmed by the Gulf Stream, the area is home to many beautiful gardens, including the National Trust’s Threave Gardens. Whilst in a delightful rural location, the property is an ideal base from which to explore the many little villages and towns in Dumfries and Galloway. Discover the delightful villages of Kippford, Rockcliffe and Sandyhills right on the coast. Castle Douglas, known as the ‘Food Town’ is a short drive away, renowned for its niche shopping and family-run food outlets. Kirkcudbright, known as ‘the artists’ town’, attracts visitors throughout the year who are drawn in by the harbour, the historic high street and the diverse range of annual events and visitor attractions. The popular programme of summer festivities culminates with the spectacular Tattoo, an event not to be missed.
A short drive will take you into Ayrshire, home to the Ayrshire Coastal Path, a 100-mile long coastal walk with one of the finest panoramic coastlines in the British Isles. Crowned with a superb backdrop of the ever-changing profile of the mountains of Arran across the Firth of Clyde, this coastline is steeped in history and teeming with wildlife, including red squirrels, deer, otters and seals; it is also a haven for bird watchers.
Inland, there are gardens and castles to visit and activities such as riding, racing and golf to enjoy. The many golf courses include the world famous Turnberry course which is close at hand, and which also has a fantastic spa and outdoor centre. Culzean Castle (owned by the National Trust for Scotland) is spectacular, and is Ayrshire’s most popular tourist attraction.
Day trips to Ireland can be taken from Cairnryan, while Glasgow, Stirling and Edinburgh are also easily reached for a day out, as is Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, with ferry links to the islands of Arran, Bute and Cumbrae all within easy reach. Cumnock Knowes can accommodate 12 guests in a spacious yet cosy atmosphere.
In conjunction with our other property, we are able to offer a complete package of accommodation and activities to suit young and old and catering for all levels of mobility. Our neighbouring 3 bedroom cottage can accommodate 6 guests so we are now able to accept parties of up to 18 guests. ( driving is required between the properties ) or the cottage can be booked alone if required.
* Hot Tub* We have 2 hot tubs available for guests but please note that these are not included in the house rental and are booked and paid for separately. Our hot tubs are for 8 people each and are situated in our all weather covered area complete with seating and relaxation area. rental prices are per individual tub and are payable over and above the house rental price and will be collected at the property.
Please note - The Hot Tub is subject to weather, minimum temperature and other use conditions.
Guest access
The house offers secure free parking for several cars with a private road accessing the property.
We usually have a meet and greet for guests however on occasions, we may leave the key in a key safe box for self check in. We will advise prior to arrival.
An open fire is available in the lounge. Firewood is not supplied however if you let us know either before on on arrival, we can arrange to have some available for purchase.
The BBQ is a charcoal one as with the fire, charcoal is not supplied. Please let us know if you would like us to supply some and we can have some available for purchase.
Please get in touch with us to book and arrange the hot tubs, logs and any other activity or should you require any further information.
Cumnock Knowes can accommodate 12 guests in a spacious yet cosy atmosphere.
Set within 50 acres, Cumnock Knowes is a perfect getaway for those who enjoy the country and all of the activities this can bring.
In conjunction with our other property, Carminnows Estate, we are able to offer a complete package of accommodation and activities to suit young and old and catering for all levels of mobility.
We are able to offer – Accommodation on a self-catering, or assisted board basis with our own dedicated cook to look after all guests. Packed lunches and all meals can be prepared as required.
Trout fishing on our own river stretch and professional fly tuition if required
Trout fishing on our own stocked lochan and again with or without tuition
Deer stalking, accompanied by a professional stalker to give you the best possible experience.
DSC Level 1 and 2 training with professional stalkers and tutors. DSC level 2 accompanied stalks and witness.
Land to Larder – an experience in stalking from the land through the full process of hunting, butchery and processing with the end result being delicious fresh venison and game.
Safe handling of firearms, gun familiarity and range shooting
Clay pigeon shooting, Archery, rough shooting, walked up shooting, duck flighting at our various flight ponds.
For our guests who like a more gentle activity, we also provide – accompanied quad bike tours and sightseeing of the estate. Accompanied Deer and wildlife photography stalks both day and night. Access to over 800 acres of some of the most beautiful countryside in southern Scotland for general walks and sightseeing.
Fly tying classes and Spey casting tuition. Gentle Yoga classes for all ages.
we would be delighted for anyone to get in touch with us directly should they require any further information.
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We look forward to welcoming you to Cumnock Knowes.
