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11 Sept 2024

Cosy cottages

Written by Lucy Paul
A living room full of furniture. The walls are coloured duck egg blue and there is a fireplace with a log burning stove next to a window.
Cosy up by the fire at Port Donnel Cottage, Rockcliffe near Dalbeattie
Enjoy a shared seasonal moment with loved ones. With gorgeous choices of winter walks, warm, cosy accommodation, and stunning settings, a Trust cottage is the perfect choice for your winter getaway.

Fancy strolling through a winter wonderland before snuggling up by the fire? Experience a delightful stay in one of our lovely holiday cottages equipped with wood burners.

We've put together a list below to make your search for the ideal snug retreat for your winter escape easier. You can also read reviews from supporters who have enjoyed a stay with us.

Highlands & Islands

Craggan Cottage, Balmacara

  • Sleeps four
  • Shop 1.7 miles, pub 1.9 miles

Check availability and book now

This beautiful whitewashed cottage stands on the north shore of Loch Alsh. It’s ideal for a group of four who’d like to explore the mystical Isle of Skye and the rural Scottish Highlands. Canine companions are also welcome.

A living room with an arm chair, window, side tables with table lamps and a fireplace.
Craggan Cottage
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“My dream cottage; I’d rent it every other month if it wasn’t so far from home!”
Alison
August 2023

Ferry Cottage, Balmacara

  • Sleeps four
  • Shop 1.7 miles, pub 1.8 miles

Check availability and book now

Find a welcoming getaway at Ferry Cottage, a former waiting room for passengers travelling by sailing boat and steamer from Balmacara.

A living room with a grey sofa against the back wall with lilac cushions and a fireplace to the right with a fire burning and a surround of teal tiles.
Ferry Cottage
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“A warm cosy cottage in a beautiful position by the water side.”
James
May 2022

Garden House, Brodie Castle & Estate

  • Sleeps six
  • Shop 3.2 miles, pub 0.7 miles

Check availability and book now

This cosy garden cottage is set in the grounds of Brodie Castle & Estate on the outskirts of Forres in Moray. It’s an idyllic, pet-friendly setting for a family getaway set amongst rich history, enjoying easy access to 16th-century Brodie Castle, the Playful Garden, which explores the Brodie family’s history, and the beaches of Findhorn and Nairn.

An old stone house surrounded by a fence.
Garden House
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“The attention to detail in the styling and design of the interior was evident and made our stay all the more enjoyable. Would recommend and definitely plan to return in future.”
Peter
January 2024

Cormack Lodge, Brodie Castle & Estate

  • Sleeps two
  • Shop 3.2 miles, pub 0.7 miles

Check availability and book now

Nestled within the grounds of Brodie Castle & Estate, Cormack Lodge is an idyllic retreat for two to experience a holiday in Scotland.

A salmon-pink walled cottage with white eaves and front door stands beside woodland. A small wooden picket fence surrounds the cottage.
Cormack Lodge
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“Really good value. Lovely and private, and really nice dog walks straight from the door.”
Lucy
January 2024

Beaton’s Croft, Skye

  • Sleeps two
  • Shop 6 miles, pub 4.5 miles

Check availability and book now

This secluded thatched croft house, Beaton’s Croft, dates back to the 19th century and achieved A-listing for its historical importance.

A thatched croft house stands surrounded by lawn on a sunny day.
Beaton's Croft
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“It is well equipped, cosy and comfortable, everything you need after a day out exploring the island. We loved it so much we’ve already booked another stay in a couple of weeks time!”
Janice
January 2024

Lydia Cottage, Cromarty

  • Sleeps two
  • Shop 0.2 miles, pub 0.1 miles

Check availability and book now

This traditional detached cottage, built around 1911 on the site of the historic fire station, is found on a quiet residential street in the charming coastal town of Cromarty. It’s the perfect base for discovering the sandy beaches, seaside villages and bottlenose dolphins in this beautiful area of Scotland.

A living room with a gold coloured sofa to the left and a fabric coffee table in the middle of the room with a chair to the right and a TV and cabinet sitting slightly to the right of the window on the left wall, A fireplace with a mirror above it sits in the focal point of the room.
Lydia Cottage
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“We would definitely stay there again. Beautiful décor and felt very welcoming and cosy.”
Tracy
April 2024

Paye House, Cromarty

  • Sleeps six
  • Shop 0.2 miles, pub 0.1 miles

Check availability and book now

Paye House is steeped in history. Originally owned by the keeper of the County Gaol, it has also served as a general store, doctors’ surgery, and depot for antique toys throughout its life.

An orange-red two-storey house stands on the corner plot of a street and narrow cobbled lane. It has a green front door.
Paye House
Quote
“A lovely cottage with everything you need and so perfectly placed for everything in Cromarty. Can’t wait to return next year.”
Paul
May 2024

Glen Cottage, Torridon

  • Sleeps six
  • Shop 2.6 miles, pub 3.4 miles

Check availability and book now

Discover the tranquillity of Glen Cottage, nestled in the midst of natural beauty. The property is set against a breathtaking backdrop of rugged sandstone peaks, sloping hills, and hulking Munros. The local wildlife further enhances the serenity of this truly exceptional gem.

A white cottage with green painted windows and door sits at the back of a lawn with mountains in the background, trees either side and blue sky with wispy clouds above.
Glen Cottage
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“The house is just lovely, and one of the nicest I have stayed in (anywhere in the world).”
Lucy
April 2024

Stalkers Cottage, Torridon

  • Sleeps four
  • Shop 1.1 miles, pub 0.5 miles

Check availability and book now

Stalker’s Cottage, a ground-floor holiday home at the foot of Torridon, is a rambler’s delight. It is enveloped by the dramatic setting of rocky sandstone hills, rugged peaks and far-reaching Munros.

A white ground-floor cottage with a gate to the side sits on the a path with trees to the front and mountains in the distance.
Stalkers Cottage
Quote
“We really, really enjoyed it! Our dog loved the enclosed garden. One only has to step out the door, to enjoy a walk to the shore of Loch Torridon, and take the path to the village. There are breathtaking views from all windows.”
Christina
December 2024

North East

Beechgrove Cottage, Pitmedden Garden

  • Sleeps four
  • Shop 0.6 miles, pub 0.7 miles

Check availability and book now

Nestled within the beautiful wooded grounds of Pitmedden Garden, Beechgrove Cottage offers four guests a ground-floor base from which to enjoy the delights of Aberdeenshire.

A large living room with a sofa, armchairs, rug, coffee table window to the rear and fireplace to the right.
Beechgrove Cottage
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“Loads to see and visit in local area. Cottage really comfortable and clean and warm. New carpets and nicely furnished. Comfortable beds. Hard to fault given it was such great value for money. Would thoroughly recommend.”
John
April 2024

North Wing, Pitmedden Garden

  • Sleeps seven
  • Shop 0.8 miles, pub 0.7 miles

Check availability and book now

Resting at the heart of Pitmedden Garden is North Wing, a beautiful section of the large manor house that lies within these scenic grounds.

A dining table set for ten guests in a dining room with a large log burner.
North Wing
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“We had an absolutely wonderful stay in North Wing. It was amazing to have the beautiful gardens to wander in whenever we felt like it — especially in the snow! The house is lovely, very grand, and appropriately furnished with antiques, interesting pictures, and books. We were very cosy, and the wood-burning stove was a bonus.”
Jane
March 2023

Courtyard Cottage, Drum Castle, Garden & Estate

  • Sleeps two
  • Shop 2.4 miles, pub 3.3 miles

Check availability and book now

Courtyard Cottage is a first-floor apartment located within Drum Castle’s historic courtyard. Steeped in 700 years of history, this property was once home to the Irvine family, and its rich history is evidenced in its antique artefacts and décor.

A bedroom with a brass bedframe double bed, green feature wall, antique furniture and window to the rear.
Courtyard Cottage
Quote
“The staff are very friendly and welcoming. This was our third time staying here, and it won’t be the last!”
Alan
January 2024

Holly Leaf Cottage, Drum Castle, Garden & Estate

  • Sleeps two
  • Shop 2.4 miles, pub 3.2 miles

Check availability and book now

Holly Leaf Cottage is a stunning property offering superb holiday accommodation for a tranquil escape in Aberdeenshire. It welcomes two guests and is ideal for a couple or friends sharing.

A quirky stone building with a tall chimney and a turret.
Holly Leaf Cottage
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“Absolutely perfect, can't wait to go back, had a great holiday over Christmas and New year, very homely and cosy.”
Lisa
December 2023

Edinburgh & East

Branklyn Cottage, Branklyn Garden

  • Sleeps four
  • Shop 0.8 miles, pub 0.5 miles

Check availability and book now

Branklyn Cottage is part of a beautiful Arts & Crafts house within the enchanting and highly acclaimed Branklyn Garden, which guests can access outside of opening hours. This property is in a truly delightful location for all-year-round visits.

Two green velvet armchairs are in front of a large window and facing a wood-burning stove in a lounge in a holiday cottage.
Branklyn Cottage
Quote
“A lovely, quiet holiday in a cottage with style and everything you could need. The property is comfortable, well equipped, clean and cosy, there is a log burner in the living room so settling in for the night in front of a glowing fire just tops things off!”
Caroline
March 2022

East Cottage, Hill of Tarvit Mansion

  • Sleeps five
  • Shop and pub 1.6 miles

Check availability and book now

A charming single-storey cottage on the grounds of Hill of Tarvit Mansion, East Cottage is the perfect choice for a tranquil family holiday to the region of Fife. Originally built for the estate workers and gardeners, this Edwardian dwelling is set within its own enclosed garden near to the estate’s original stable block.

A living room with purple sofas, a large coffee table, a side table, a window, a table lamp and a wood-burning stove.
East Cottage
Quote
“When arriving at the cottage we were really surprised at how lovely the cottage and the grounds were, that we decided to stay another 2 weeks and would of stayed longer had the cottage been available.”
Nicholas
May 2023

West Cottage, Hill of Tarvit Mansion

  • Sleeps five
  • Shop and pub 1.6 miles

Check availability and book now

Originally built as a home for the estate workers who maintained Hill of Tarvit Mansion, West Cottage today provides a welcoming retreat for five guests in Cupar, Fife.

The living room of a cottage with a sofa to the left, a fabric coffee table in the middle of the room and a chair underneath a window to the right. A fireplace with a glowing fire is the focal point of the room.
West Cottage
Quote
“A gem of a cottage. Comfortable and set in the most beautiful countryside. Perfect for an autumn holiday nestled among trees and woodland. Can’t recommend highly enough and a fantastic location to visit Falkland, East of Neuk and the wonderful Kellie Castle.”
Yvonne
November 2022

South & West

Ardlochan Lodge, Culzean Castle & Country Park

  • Sleeps four
  • Shop 3.7 miles, pub 3.8 miles

Check availability and book now

Enjoy an escape to the Ayrshire coast at Ardlochan Lodge, which is surrounded by the beauty of Culzean Castle & Country Park on the outskirts of the charming town of Maybole in Ayrshire.

A living room with two beige sofas, side table and side lights, a coffee table, TV in the corner, clock on the wall and a wood burning stove.
Ardlochan Lodge
Quote
“Our cosy cottage set in the grounds of the gorgeous Culzean Castle. Two minutes walk to the beach - the dogs loved it. We'll be back.....soon, I hope!”
Moira
June 2024

North Segganwell, Culzean Castle & Country Park

  • Sleeps two
  • Shop 3.7 miles, pub 3.8 miles

Check availability and book now

Once home to the estate workers of Culzean Castle, including William Kirkland, a shepherd who lived here with his wife and four children, North Segganwell now offers a beautiful beachfront base from which to explore this beautiful part of Scotland.

A living room with grey sofas, a huge rug and a window with a fire roaring in the wood burning stove.
North Segganwell
Quote
“Absolutely magical place. Our aim was to unwind and rest, which the location and cottage was perfect for. Access to the castle grounds, dolphin coastal walk and swan pond was a treat. The beach was amazing as was the view well worth the 127 steps down to the snug warm cottage.”
Samantha
March 2023

South Segganwell, Culzean Castle & Country Park

  • Sleeps two
  • Shop 3.7 miles, pub 3.8 miles

Check availability and book now

Resting on the Ayrshire coast’s idyllic shores, you will find this inviting all-ground-floor cottage, South Segganwell.

A long, single-storey white cottage with a grey tiled roof stands above a sandy beach.
South Segganwell
Quote
“The cottage is well maintained and well equipped and in such a beautiful spot. Always lovely and cosy.”
Maureen
January 2024

Garden House, Culzean Castle & Country Park

  • Sleeps six
  • Shop 5.1 miles, pub 5.3 miles

Check availability and book now

Nestled within the grounds of the grand Culzean Castle & Country Park Estate near the popular town of Maybole is this three-bedroom traditional detached cottage, Garden House.

A two storey stone house, with a parking area in front and a grass garden at the side.
Garden House
Quote
“You couldn't ask for a better setting, you could spend all of your holiday on the estate.”
Kiaran
August 2023

Clocktower, Culzean Castle & Country Park

  • Sleeps six
  • Shop 5.1 miles, pub 5.3 miles

Check availability and book now

The Clocktower enjoys an exceptional courtyard setting with an outlook towards the estate’s original clocktower, Culzean Castle, and the sea. It is a perfect spot to enjoy all that the grand estate offers.

A large living room with grey sofas, a coffee table on a rug, TV on a stand, a window in the corner and a wood burning stove on the left wall.
Clocktower
Quote
“The adventure playground is amazing, house was so close to the beach, castle just across the courtyard and super private garden too. All the staff were really friendly and helpful, made us feel so welcome”
Ann
March 2024

Port Donnel Cottage, Rockcliffe

  • Sleeps five
  • Shop 1.6 miles, pub 0.1 miles

Check availability and book now

A secluded, whitewashed cottage resting on the Urr estuary’s shores in Rockcliffe’s coastal hamlet, Port Donnel Cottage offers a group of five a beautiful base for a seaside escape to Scotland.

A living room full of furniture. The walls are coloured duck egg blue and there is a fireplace with a log burning stove next to a window.
Port Donnel Cottage
Quote
“Very clean with good quality facilities. Perfect location for a peaceful break. Wonderful views and very private without being isolated. Will definitely return.”
Carol
October 2023

Gate Lodge, Threave Garden

  • Sleeps five
  • Shop 1.6 miles, pub 1.5 miles

Check availability and book now

A 19th-century sandstone lodge guarding the entrance of Threave Garden, Gate Lodge offers a traditional holiday home for a group of five seeking a scenic base in Scotland.

A living room with a sofa and an arm chair, a large purple rug with a coffee table on top, a TV in the far corner, a window at the back wall and a fireplace with a roaring fire in the centre of the main wall. Various items adorn the walls from pictures to mirrors.
Gate Lodge
Quote
“Good location for visiting the surrounding area and the walks around the estate are well worth doing.”
Alfred
May 2024

Plan your holiday

Explore

Featured Places

Looking towards Culzean Castle, with the Fountain Court garden in the foreground.
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Culzean Castle

Robert Adam’s cliff-top masterpiece rises above a world of woods, beaches, secret follies and play parks

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Daffodils in front of Brodie Castle in springtime
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Brodie Castle & Estate

Magnificent turreted castle with a Playful Garden and amazing springtime daffodil displays

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A view of a garden, filled with colourful flower beds and lush green shrubs and trees. On the lawn area, some patio tables and chairs are set out for tearoom visitors.
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Branklyn Garden

This enchanting hillside garden is a place of pilgrimage for plant lovers.

Perthshire
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Threave Garden & Nature Reserve

A garden for all seasons and a haven for wildlife, with an osprey platform and bat reserve

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The sea at Rockcliffe seen at dusk, with the moon in the sky. Rocks run into the still, almost purple-blue water.
Place

Rockcliffe

See nature in all its glory along the trails of one of Scotland’s prettiest stretches of coastline

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A meadow beside the sea on a sunny day, with the sun twinkling on the blue water. Tall yellow flowers grow in the foreground.
Place

Balmacara Estate

With Skye on the horizon, explore the rich natural and cultural heritage of Highland crofting amid memorable landscapes and stunning wildlife.

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A view from a mountain top, looking across to other very high mountains in the range.
Place

Torridon

Majestic mountain paradise for hikers, climbers, geologists and nature lovers

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A bird's eye view of the great garden at Pitmedden. A large lawn is split into sections, with manicured hedges and trees surrounding designed beds of flowers and plants.
Place

Pitmedden Garden

Re-created Scottish Renaissance walled garden with vibrant floral designs and Museum of Farming Life

Aberdeen City & Shire

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