Altyre Estates
Location: near Forres, Moray
The Altyre Estate, situated near Forres in the north-east of Scotland offers a wide variety of activities to all visitors. As the ancient seat of the Cumming Clan, the Estate is still managed by its descendents today.
Altyre boasts spectacular scenery, set in natural woodland, the estate provides many opportunities for outdoor activities. For those looking for a chance to escape and relax outdoors, Altyre Estate provides the perfect country retreat to get away from it all.
Deep forest, woodland and rolling hills abound on this estate making it home to an array of fascinating flora and fauna. Animal lovers and nature enthusiasts can enjoy exploring these natural habitats by following one of many trails.
The estate need not be explored on foot. Visitors can choose one of many trekking routes and enjoy the estate on horseback or take in stunning views during an exhilarating cycle ride. A range of field sports are also offered by the estate.
For further information please contact the Estate Office on 01309 672265
Ardkinglas Estate
Location: Argyll
Dating back to the 1900's, Ardkinglas Estate was built and designed by the renowned Scottish Architect Sir Robert Lorimer. Located in Argyll at the head of Loch Fyne the estate is in prime location for a variety of activities and pursuits.
The mansion house, set in a designed landscape and with its original interiors still intact exudes history. The Estate, also known as "The Hunting Ground of Champions" due to the 6 Champion Trees which grow in the woodland gardens, which are open all year round. There are many walks and trails to follow on a visit to the estate, including a walk through these historic gardens as they follow the tumbling River Kinglass. Beautiful greenery and plants and an abundance of wildlife, including the rare red squirrels also inhabit the gardens. Tours of the house gardens themselves are held in conjunction with tours of the Mansion House.
There are a variety of sporting activities on offer at the estate. For those after a challenge the Famous Munro's are close by and there are a many cycle trails and roads to suit all capabilities and ages. If Shooting is an interest, the estate has 6 weeks of let stalking.
The self-catering accommodation in the Butlers Quarters, which can sleep up to 5 people, is the perfect place to relax and take a peaceful break.
The estate is also available for small conferences and meetings. With a Licence for Civil Ceremonies and a spectacular site for a Reception, Ardkinglas Estate is the perfect place for the Special Day.
For further Enquires contact Jean Maskell on 01499 600261 or visit the website at www.ardkinglas.com.
Argyll Estates
Location: Inverary
There
is a magnificent history surrounding Argyll Estates which has been home
to the Argyll family for centuries. The family are direct descendents
of the Clan Campbell and arrived in Argyll in the early 13th century to
take charge of the King’s lands. The Campbells stayed in a castle
beside Loch Awe until the 1400s when Duncan Campbell moved to Inveraray
and took the title of Lord Argyll.
Inveraray Castle is a unique work of architecture incorporating Baroque, Palladian and Gothic styles. Today, visitors can spend time admiring the fine surroundings of the castle and learning about the past and present role of the Argyll family in Scotland’s rich and varied history. Local gifts, books and other goodies can be found in the Tartan Turret gift shop. Those seeking refreshment can go to the Castle tea room before further enjoying what the estate has to offer.
For those who are looking for a sporting break, Argyll Estates offers a variety of field sports. Fishing opportunities are available on the Aray and Shira rivers, whilst sea fishing is available on nearby Loch Fyne. Those wishing to explore the idyllic landscapes on foot are well catered for and visitors are encouraged to use the woodlands trails through the forests. Exploring the outdoors need not have to be done on foot. Close to Inveraray Castle, is Argyll Riding Dalchenna, a four star riding centre which offers treks over a range of terrain for all levels.
For further information about Argyll Estates, please contact the Estate Office or visit www.inveraray-castle.com
Atholl Estates
Location: Perthshire
Located
in Perthshire, Atholl Estates is one of Scotland’s best known Highland
Estates with history dating back to the 13th century. As a gateway to
the Highlands, the Estate was extremely important in past centuries. Nowadays,
the area is a great base from which to explore all parts of Scotland.
Undoubtedly the most famous visitor attraction is Blair Castle, the ancient seat of the Earls and Duke’s of Atholl. The first private house to open to the public in Scotland, the Castle offers extensive and exquisite displays of tapestries, china, art and armoury. The grounds include an 18th century walled garden, extensive parkland, deerpark, picnic area and children’s playground. It is an ideal location for weddings and functions.
The Estate offers a range of sporting and leisure activities including pony trekking at the Blair Castle Trekking Centre which has been in operation since the 1950s. There is also a range of trails for walkers and cyclists at all levels with support, information and guided excursions available through the Estate’s Ranger Service.
A range of country sports such as deer stalking, grouse shooting and fishing are also available across the Estate. Two annual events take place every year, the Atholl Gathering and Parade at the end of May and the Blair Castle Horse Trials and Country Fair at the end of August. The horse trials is Scotland’s only three star three day event.
Holiday lodges and a caravan site are available for those wishing to extend their visit to Atholl Estates.
For more information please contact the Estate office on 01796 481355 or visit www.atholl-estates.co.uk
Buccleuch Estates - Bowhill
Location: South of Scotland
Located
in three areas throughout Scotland, the Buccleuch Estates offer an exciting
range of indoor and outdoor activities for all ages.
Surrounded by beautiful countryside, Bowhill is at the centre of an estate which covers some 46,000 acres. Standing amidst beautiful scenery and surrounded by mixed woodland and farmland, it is the perfect place to visit for a break away from it all. Whether it be a day trip, or as part of a longer stay in the borders, visitors to Bowhill will be guaranteed an unforgettable time.
Bowhill House dates back to 1812, and contains extensive collections of remarkable artefacts. Open for visits throughout July, and by appointment throughout the year, this House is well worth a visit. One of the treasures on this Estate is the Bowhill Theatre in the Forest. The charming 70 seat theatre in Bowhill Courtyard presents a wide variety of plays from traditional Scottish themes to modern pieces of drama.
The grounds of Bowhill offer some magnificent walks and waymarked trails suitable for all ages and abilities. Stride over beautiful rolling countryside, explore enchanting woodlands or amble on the banks of the Ettrick and Yarrow rivers - wherever you go, let the beauty of the borders be your backdrop.
Bowhill is a fisher’s paradise. Whether you are a keen angler or a beginner, the Rivers Ettrick and Yarrow running through the estate, and the nearby Tweed, will mean that you’ll be spoiled for choice.
For further information please contact the Visitor Services on 01750 22204 or visit www.buccleuch.com
Dalhousie Estates
Location: Brechin, Angus
Dating back to the 13th century, Brechin Castle has been the home of the Dalhousie family since the 17th Century. Dalhousie Estate is located in Angus, an area rich in Scottish heritage and central to Scottish history and is renowned for its culture and history, with wonderful walking and wildlife set amongst some of Scotland's most beautiful countryside.
A visit to Dalhousie Estates can offer so much, whatever it is you're looking for. And no visit would be complete without a relaxing stay in our luxurious accommodation. With self-catering cottages situated in Glenesk, you can enjoy views into the moorlands and of the Grampian Mountains. Corporate, sporting and golfing parties can enjoy a warm welcome at Dalhousie or Invermark Lodges. And for those looking for something a bit more special, formal accommodation is available with Lord and Lady Dalhousie in Brechin Castle.
If you're looking for sport, Angus is home to a number of fine golf courses – notably Scottish Open Course, Carnoustie and Letham Grange Golf Course, with the Grampian mountains as a backdrop. And Dalhousie can offer so much to those looking to shoot. From pheasant and grouse to deer and salmon fishing available, a stay at Dalhousie can help you get away from it all in some of Scotland's most spectacular countryside.
For those looking to explore the 55,000 acres on foot, there are a number of wonderful upland and lowland walking routes throughout the Estate. Walkers will encounter a wide diversity of Scottish wildlife- from birds of prey and game birds to the herds of red deer who roam the estate.
Angus is a perfect place to get away from it all, and is open 365 days a year. With 55,000 acres, Dalhousie Estate has something to offer everyone- from sporting adventures, to fine cuisine and walking routes. With the Grampians on your doorstep, what better place to stay?
Buccleuch Estates - Dalkeith
Location: Dalkeith, outskirts of Edinburgh
Located
in East Lothian, Dalkeith Estate is easily accessible from Edinburgh by
car or by bus and is the perfect place to take the family for a day out.
More commonly known as Dalkeith Country Park, the Estate provides a range
walks and trails suitable for all ages and abilities.
The landscape of the Country Park dates back to the beginning of the eighteenth century and over the years has become a natural habitat containing extensive woodland.
This habitat houses some fabulous flora and fauna, allowing visitors to experience nature at its best. Countryside Rangers at the Visitor Centre are also on hand to provide information to those who wish to learn more about this special environment and find out about guided walks, talks and other activities. There are numerous trails for walkers which are also suitable for bikes and there is also a large adventure playground for children. The Park’s café is a welcome stop for those seeking refreshment.
For further information please contact the Visitor Services on 0131 654 1666 or visit www.dalkeithcountrypark.com
Dunecht Estates
Location: North East of Scotland
Dunecht Estates, located in the North East of Scotland is made up of seven estates covering 53, 000 acres and Dunnottar Castle Estate is home to an ancient cliff top fortress that has played a significant role in Scottish history.
Dunnottar Castle was the home of the Earls Marischal of Scotland whose role it was to oversee all ceremonial activities in the Scottish Court. These duties included looking after the Scottish Crown Jewels, known as the ‘Honours of Scotland’. Famously in the 17th Century, a small garrison of 70 men held out against the might of Cromwell’s army for eight months to save the Honours from destruction.
William Wallace burnt down the original wooden 13th century Castle that was under English occupation at the time, and the proceeding stone construction, although seemingly impregnable, suffered a battering from Cromwell’s army and never recovered its former glory.
The last Earl Marischal was convicted of treason for his part in the Jacobite uprising of 1715 and his Estates including Dunnottar Castle were seized by the government. The buildings were neglected until 1925 when the 1st Viscountess Cowdray embarked on a systematic process of repair. Visitors today can see the ongoing restoration of a dramatic and evocative Castle and imagine it as in times past. Dunnottar Castle is open all year round.
Dunecht welcomes visitors to explore further afield and offers a range of country sports and scenic walks. The Estates manage two beats on the River Dee, Scotland’s premier spring salmon River. Rods are let by the week or by the day with tuition provided by arrangement. Other field sports activities include grouse, partridge, and pheasant shooting and roe stalking.
For further information please contact the Estate Office on 01330 860223
Grosvenor Estates - Reay Forest
Location: Sutherland
The
Reay Forest Estate in Sutherland extends over some 120,000 acres, and
is set amongst spectacular scenery, with the whole of the Laxford area
including Lochs Stack and More framed by the majestic peaks of Stack,
Arkle and Foinaven. It provides one of the most dramatic canvasses in
the Highlands. The area has been long associated with the Clan Mackay.
The estate has exclusive salmon and sea trout fishing on the River Laxford. Additionally boats are available on Lochs Stack and More for salmon, sea trout and brown trout, and there are also some very good hill lochs for brown trout.
The estate has a spectacular deer forest split into 6 beats each of some 20,000 acres, each beat with its own stalker and walking ghillie. Some beats are accessed by boat or pony and give a unique start and end to the day.
For further information please contact the Estate Office on 01971 500221.
Invercauld Estate
Location: Braemar, Aberdeenshire
Situated in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, Invercauld covers
over 110,000 acres extending through Deeside and Perthshire. The
Estate enjoys a wide variety of magnificent scenery from remote mountain
lochs, to extensive forestry and verdant pastures. Whether you
are looking for sport, wildlife or to simply escape from city life, Invercauld
is the perfect location to enjoy Scotland's countryside.
Home to the Farquharson family since 1632, the family's association with the region dates back to before the 1400s.
The Estate offers a wide variety of outdoor pursuits. Salmon fishing on the world famous River Dee is one of the most popular pastimes and it's no wonder that it's a premier choice for anyone looking to learn or master the sport. Invercauld can offer the fisherman a truly unforgettable experience and can supply the services of a ghillie if required. The Estate is also home to a number of hill lochs, where fishing for wild brown trout takes place in stunning and peaceful locations, which are well worth the effort in getting there. Loch Beannie, in Glenshee also offers a small boat and there can be fewer more tranquil places to fish on.
Wildlife is in abundance on Invercauld and the most fantastic place to visit with a pair of binoculars or camera. There is always a chance to enjoy the presence of wild animals or birds. We are home to eagles, peregrines, ospreys, buzzards and many smaller species, for example, ring ouzel, dotterel and snow bunting. Visitors can also see squirrels, otters, pine martin, foxes, and red and roe deer. We have on offer some excellent deer stalking, both red and roe. We can also offer pheasant and partridge shooting, as well as grouse, ptarmigan and mountain hare.
Walking and cycling are well catered for too, with everything from a short low level walk through the forests and valleys to a breath-taking Munro. There is a well serviced car park at the Keiloch, just east of Braemar.
Nearby Braemar is home to the highest 18-hole golf course in the UK and for skiers, Glenshee offers the largest ski area in Scotland.
On the Estate there are two very well appointed holiday houses, which can be let out weekly or for shorter stays if there is availability. They are both situated in the heart of the Estate and supply the visitor with the perfect base for a relaxing and peaceful break in beautiful surroundings.
Please visit our website www.invercauld.org for further information.
Buccleuch Estates - Langholm
Location: Dumfriesshire
Langholm
in Dumfriesshire is known as "The Muckle Toon" and is set in an area characterised
by beautiful river valleys between green, rolling hills making it perfect
for walking and fishing.
Walking is made easy in Langholm with a wonderful network of 12 way marked routes suitable for all ages and abilities. For those wishing to learn about the ancient history of the area, the Eskdale Prehistoric Trail should not be missed. Illustrated interpretive panels, finger posts and a trail leaflet, link several outstanding prehistoric sites and places of archaeological interest. All sites are well signed and range from 3,500 year-old stone circles to Iron Age hill forts.
Langholm's rivers provide a remarkable variety of fishing, from racing runs full of enticing pockets of deeper water, to deep slow moving pools overhung by sandstone cliffs. The Border Esk is well known for its run of sea trout, and for its salmon run during the second half of the season. Both the Esk and Liddle flow through picturesque countryside typical of the Border area and much of the bankside is wooded with indigenous hardwoods.
The Langholm Common Riding marks a tradition that dates back nearly 250 years to inspect the delineation of the boundaries of the Lands of Langholm. The event, which takes place on the last Friday of July, includes a colourful procession starting at 5am with a flute band and ending with a party at 9.30pm in front of the town hall. Artists and musicians flock to the area in August for the Langholm & Eskdale Music & Arts Festival which showcases traditional arts and Scottish folk music.
For further information please contact Visitor Services on 01387 380202
Lothian Estates
Location: Scottish Borders
Lothian
Estates is located in the Scottish Borders and dates back to the first
half of the fourteenth century when the Kerr family settled in the area.
Ownership of the Estate fell to the Lothian family at the beginning of the 18th century and the family continues to run a working estate today encompassing a range of businesses including farming, forestry and tourism.
A popular first stop is the Harestanes Countryside Visitor centre where visitors can obtain a range of information about wildlife, trails, organised walks and events. The Centre also houses wicker weaving, tile and leather workshops and local products can be purchased on site.
Monteviot House, situated on the banks of the River Teviot, is set in magnificent grounds. Impressive horticulture abounds in the extensive gardens including a rose garden and water garden.
Ferniehirst Castle is also worth a visit. As the ancient seat of the Kerr clan, it is steeped in a rich and often bloody history as battles were waged between the Scots and the English.
Lothian Estates also offers a range of field sports including salmon and trout fishing on the River Teviot.
For further information please contact the Estate Office on 01835 862 201 or visit www.lothest.co.uk
Mansfield Estates - Scone Palace
Location: Perthshire
Located
in rural Perthshire, the Estate at Scone offers a wealth of activities
and a history that is hard to rival.
Home to the Earls of Mansfield, Scone Palace is the site of the ancient crowning ceremonies of the Kings of Scotland. Home to a fine collection of objets d'art, Steeped in mystery and centuries of tradition, the Kingdom of Scone was created in the Ninth Century by Kenneth MacAlpin and from this date intrigue and conflict were no strangers to this magnificent place.
Whether you are an historical buff, a connoisseur of fine arts, or even just someone who loves a story, this centre of Scottish history is not to be missed!
The Palace grounds are stunning and incorporate over 100 acres of Parkland which includes Perthshire's only maze. A number of events are held on the Estate throughout the year from the Game Conservancy Scottish Fair, Caledonia Horse Trials to outdoor theatre productions and garden plant sales.
Mansfield Estates is also home to some of the finest salmon fishing in the country. Why not book a day on the River Tay and try your hand at landing wild salmon. Field sport enthusiasts will also discover a range of traditional pursuits in which to participate.
For further information please contact the Estate Office on 01738 552308 or visit www.scone-palace.co.uk
Buccleuch Estates - Queensberry
Location: Dumfries & Galloway
Queensberry
Estate is set amidst an outstanding landscape that covers 120, 000 acres
of rolling hills, farmland and woodlands. The Dukes of Buccleuch and Queensberry have
carefully maintained this environment over the centuries and today, the
Estate’s natural beauty remains unspoilt.
Drumlanrig Castle lies at the centre of the Estate and was built towards the end of the 17th century on the ancient stronghold of the Douglas clan. The Castle is one of the first examples of its kind in Scottish architecture and boasts impressive features both inside and out. Tours of the castle take place daily from May to August and visitors will also see one of the finest art collections in the UK including Rembrant, Holbein and Gainsborough.
The Stableyard houses a range of art & craft workshops including sculpture, painting, jewellery and soap making. Visitors can watch the craftspeople at work and have the opportunity to purchase unique local products.
Outdoors, visitors are spoilt for choice by the range of activities. There are numerous waymarked walks and cycle trails throughout the Estate and many activities for those who enjoy traditional field sports such as fishing, grouse shooting and deer stalking. Children are well catered for and can enjoy an adventure playground and learn more about wildlife at the Birds of Prey Experience. If you’re not sure where to start, head for the Visitor Centre and pick up a map. A dedicated and experienced ranger service is also on hand to provide information about everything the Estate has to offer.
For further information please contact the Visitor Services on 01848 331555 or visit www.buccleuch.com
Roxburghe Estates
Location: Scottish Borders
For
an unforgettable day out in the ancient capital of Scotland, Roxburghe
Estate offers something for everyone - from fishing on the River Tweed
to walking to some of the most beautiful hills in Scotland, not to mention
the chance of a round of golf on the Championship course.
A visit to Floors Castle should not be missed. This remarkable fairy-tale building, home to the Dukes of Roxburghe since 1721 contains a rich history and houses fine works of art, timeless tapestries and a beautiful collection of antiques. Outside, the Castle’s extensive grounds offer the chance to relax in walled gardens and wander a variety of woodland trails. Visitors can also participate in a wide variety of sporting and leisure pursuits including archery, quad biking and clay pigeon shooting.
The site of Roxburgh Castle is an ancient capital of Scotland. Recently excavated, this symbol of our national heritage remains steeped in intrigue. Visitors can explore the settlements in the surrounding hills and imagine what life was like in Scotland hundreds of years ago.
The luxurious four star Roxburghe Hotel is a great base from which to explore the estate and is ideally located for golf enthusiasts adjacent to a championship course.
Whether you are in search of a day following the thread of Scottish history through the Borders, a round of golf, or even a walk in the woods, a trip to Roxburghe estate has it all.
For further information about Roxburghe Estate please contact the Estate Office on 01573 223333 or visit www.floorscastle.com or www.roxburghe.net
Seafield & Strathspey Estates
Location: Cullen, Moray Firth & Strathspey, Spey Valley
The Seafield estates are located in two areas in the north of Scotland: the lowland Banffshire area around Cullen on the Moray Firth, and at Strathspey, in the upper reaches of the Spey valley. Both Estates have significant history and continue to take an important role in their respective communities today.
The family name of the Earl of Seafield is Ogilvie-Grant. The Ogilvie family belongs to Cullen and district, and the Grant clan to Strathspey.
Banffshire has been the home of the Ogilvies since 1440 when they moved from the parish of Glamis in Angus. Until about 1511, when the family moved to The Castle of Cullen House, Findlater Castle had been the family residence, and the ruins can be seen on the rugged coast between Cullen and Sandend.
Strathspey has been Clan Grant territory since the thirteenth century and the crucial link came in 1735 when Sir Ludovick Grant of Grant married Lady Margaret Ogilivie, the daughter of the second Earl of Seafield. Their son Sir James Grant of Grant, 'the good Sir James' was responsible in 1766 for founding Grantown-on-Spey.
The Estates offer spectacular and varied countryside that can be explored on foot or by bicycle. For field sport enthusiasts a wide range of activities can be taken.
For further information please contact the Estate Office on 01542 840777 or visit www.seafield-estate.co.uk
