The Butler’s Quarters at Ardkinglas

Up over the ‘Rest and Be Thankful’ from Loch Lomond, this oasis reclines amidst the grand old trees of the Ardkinglas Estate. Ardkinglas House itself stands right on the shores of sinewy Loch Fyne offering sweeping views of the famous loch, while the Butler’s Quarters lies tucked away on the ground floor of the house.

The Grand Butler’s Quarters

Far from making you feel like being one of the house staff the Butler’s Quarters at Ardkinglas offer a cosy abode, as well as the chance to stay in your very own country house. Replete with period furnishings and a charmingly old world ambience the years peel back as the stress of modern living also abates on arrival at this self-catering accommodation with a difference. You also get free access to the grounds and the famous Ardkinglas Woodland Garden.

The Butler’s Quarters is the self-catering accommodation at Ardkinglas House. It consists of two bedrooms, one cosy double bedded one for couples and a second bedroom with a double and a single that works well for families. It is meant for a maximum of five, but we also managed to easily fit in a cot for our young daughter too so could have one more wee one. The decades peel back with original furnishings and décor throughout the quarters. The bedrooms themselves may not be modern, but they are certainly comfortable.

Fyne Food

Self-catering is the only option here. There is a cooker as well as a microwave. You also get the chance to go all retro with an old fashioned butter dish and original crockery. Within a ten minute drive is the world famous Loch Fyne Oyster Bar so it would be a shame not to indulge. Further to the south the Creggans Inn is under new ownership and is great for a pub lunch or something a bit grander for dinner.

The Butler’s Quarters have a TV (not a new fangled flat screen one of course) and some games and books for a quiet night in. There are no other facilities on site, but you can go on a guided tour around the house. There are also guided tours of the famous Ardkinglas Wooden Garden and the Woodland trails that spread their tentacles throughout the grounds and down towards the shores of Loch Fyne.

Ardkinglas Estate and Loch Fyne

The Ardkinglas Estate itself offers some great walking opportunities. We headed off up Glen Fyne, which is a great wild oasis laden with red deer and eagles. At the start of the glen walk is the Loch Fyne Brewery where you can sample some of the famous local ales. The Loch Fyne complex that houses the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar also has some shops and bits and bobs to explore. The nearest town is Inveraray, a 20 minute drive away, which boasts plenty of shops, a brace of great museums and a choice of places to eat and drink.

The Butler’s Quarters at Ardkinglas, Cairndow, Argyll, PA26 8BH. Tel: +44(0)1499-600261. www.ardkinglas.com/self-catering/butlers-quarters.html

InsiderScotland Rating

For Families 7/10

For a Romantic Break 6/10

InsiderScotland Rating 6/10