Chestnut Cottage

The Ayrshire coast and countryside offer serious appeal for walkers and cyclists. Chestnut Cottage sits within reach of the River Ayr walk and the Ayrshire Coastal Path, while Ayr itself—five miles away—has restaurants, shops and bars. Royal Troon and Turnberry golf courses are nearby, as are Culzean Castle, Crossraguel Abbey and Burns Cottage. Glasgow is 30 minutes' drive; Edinburgh an hour. The property stands on a working farm on a hillside in a quiet setting, though you will need your own transport.

The cottage accommodates eight across four bedrooms, each with an en-suite shower room; there is also a separate bathroom with a roll-top bath. Downstairs, the living space includes a kitchen with a range cooker and dishwasher, a games room with table football and a Nintendo Wii, and French doors opening to a garden with a private hot tub and patio. The essentials—heating, electricity, wifi and bed linen—are covered. A utility room has a washing machine and tumble dryer; private parking takes four cars and a bike store is available.

The place works for families and groups of friends. No smoking throughout.