Dunskey Estate - Fern Forest House
Dumfries and Galloway
View on Google MapsPhoto: J B
Waterfalls and lochs dot the grounds of Dunskey Estate, a 2000-acre private property near Stranraer where walking trails wind through woodland and seasonal flower displays. The estate's own gardens shift through the year—bluebells, snowdrops and daffodils in spring, rhododendrons in summer, hydrangeas in autumn—giving plenty of reason to step outside. Fern Forest House, originally built as the head gardener's residence, sits at the heart of this landscape and sleeps six across three bedrooms, each with its own bathroom.
The house combines period character with modern essentials. A wood-burning fireplace anchors the sitting room; the kitchen is fully equipped for cooking and opens onto views of the maze and historic stables. Bedrooms include two king-size doubles on the first floor and two singles on the second. Heating, electricity, Wi-Fi, bed linen and towels are included, and initial logs for the fire are provided. Outside, a garden with seating, a barbecue and fire pit face the trees; parking fits three cars and a bike store is available. The property is non-smoking and one well-behaved pet is welcome.
The nearest town is Stranraer, with its harbour and outdoor pursuits. The house works well for families or groups wanting space to spread out, with enough room indoors for gathering and enough grounds to explore without needing to leave the estate.
Sleeps & rooms
What's on offer
Check-in & check-out
Arrive after 16:00 Depart before 10:00
🚭 No smoking, please
What guests say
Highly recommend this place. We stayed 4 nights in the Wrens Lodge, it was beautifully decorated and so peaceful. The meals we ordered tasted delicious. This is a beautiful part of the world.
a month ago · via Google
Wow!! What a truly beautiful place! We have recently spent four nights in paradise in the most charming accommodation imaginable. We thoroughly enjoyed exploring Dumfries and Galloway, but every day we found ourselves eager to return to one of the most stunning places we have ever stayed anywhere in the world. The Selkie’s Haven was exceptional in every way, both inside and out. The craftsmanship and attention to detail were absolutely second to none. Even on the slightly chillier evenings, sitting outside was an absolute delight, especially watching the seals bobbing about in the secluded bay each morning. The hilltop walk to Portpatrick was equally breathtaking — every aspect of our stay exceeded expectations. Communication and customer service were outstanding throughout. The welcome hamper was without question the best we have ever received — everything was delicious, thoughtful, and very much appreciated. The staff were exceptional: always available if needed, yet wonderfully respectful of our privacy and peace. Dunskey Estate itself is simply magical. Every area blends seamlessly into the next, each one more beautiful than the last. The woodland walks were among the loveliest we have ever experienced, filled with wildflowers and an almost enchanted atmosphere. The small loch and large loch were both stunning, while the walled gardens and maze added even more charm and character to an already unforgettable setting. Although it is a long journey from home for us, every mile was more than worth it. We often avoid returning to places so that the memories remain special — however, this is one place we genuinely hope to revisit. We could not fault a single thing and cannot recommend staying here highly enough. Thank you to everyone involved — you are a true credit to this extraordinary place. It has been an absolute privilege to stay here!
3 months ago · via Google
How do you even begin to describe the place that made all your wildest dreams come true? From the very first time we met Anne, Ali, and the entire team at Dunskey, we just knew it was the right place. We had been dreading the wedding planning process, but we kept coming back to Dunskey, it simply felt like home. Everything about the experience was magical. Every detail is so thoughtfully considered from the early planning stages, to travel logistics for guests coming from all over the world, to the endless support the team provides throughout. The itinerary they created was truly a dream come to life. Anything you can imagine, they can make happen — from the most beautiful wedding ceremony, to the most amazing food you’ll ever have, to a sunset beach walk, to a fire-fest BBQ, to late-night dance parties in the rave cave. Even spontaneous moments, like local musicians joining in or after-hours karaoke, felt effortlessly perfect. You’re always cared for, always surrounded by joy. It’s almost an understatement when people say this is the best experience of their lives — because it really is. When else do you get to bring together your favorite people in one of the most breathtaking and special places in the world, with a team that makes every moment unforgettable? We can’t recommend Dunskey enough and honestly, we’re a little jealous of anyone who still has their celebration here ahead of them.
9 months ago · via Google
We have just had the most amazing three day stay at Dunskey, staying in the newly renovated Selkies Haven. This wasn't our first stay in the area or on the estate, but this was the most perfect accommodation ever!!! We holed up with supplies and barely left. The sunset from the bath tub above the house was amazing! Sitting on the sofa at the front of the house, listening to the sea and watching the seal in the bay was beyond relaxing. The weather was good to us and the sea still warm enough for a dip even at the end of September. We took the dogs with us who very much enjoyed their stay too and the secure garden. Staff were on hand if needed and responded very quickly to an Internet query, but other than that were not intrusive. We were shown around when we arrived by Ali, who was very helpful and obligingly lent us some binoculars to seal watch with. We wanted to stay longer, but alas someone else was booked in, we will certainly be back to stay in this tiny but perfect house. ❤️
11 months ago · via Google
Guests mention this estate offers beautiful accommodations, stunning grounds with trails and gardens, and exceptional food, including dishes like venison wellington and lobster dumplings. They also highlight the personalized experience, with staff making every detail effortless and creating a welcoming, home-like atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the attentive and friendly staff, who are always available and provide excellent service.
Summary via Google