Dreaming of your next autumn staycation? Well, you're in luck, as this charming pink castle in Ayrshire, Scotland, is just perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Plucked straight from a fairy tale, The Pink Castle lay dormant for years and fell into ruins before being renovated to a high standard in 2013. Thanks to the hard work of owners, it has been thoughtfully decorated with local stone, stained-glass windows, charming wooden beams, exposed stone walls, eye-catching wallpaper and cosy soft furnishings.
Combining traditional and modern features may seem like a challenging blend to perfect, but the owners have done so wonderfully. You'll find bedrooms tucked into the spacious turrets (there is enough space to sleep eight guests), while the cosy ground floor has been revamped with underfloor heating and a wood burner to provide warmth after a busy day exploring the area.
But that's not all: other highlights include the well-equipped kitchen, stone spiral staircase, luxurious sauna and a circular seating area with porthole windows — the perfect spot for watching local birds chattering from nearby trees.
"More and more people are looking for somewhere different to stay, the more unusual the better, and the Pink Castle certainly ticks lots of boxes - where else will you find sheep on the roof?" says Jemima Kirkwood from Cottages and Castles.
"We love even more that the whole castle celebrates local craftsmanship as it was resurrected with the help of Scottish architects, builders, upholsterers, painters and stone masons. In a day where sustainability and 'home grown' is important, this castle represents support to its local community. It is a holiday home like no other and will add a touch of magic to anyone's stay."
Set in the lovely town of Largs, guests will be able to enjoy a game of tennis on the estate, a visit to the Firth of Clyde waterside and a stroll along the traditional sandy seafront, which is just three miles away (don't forget your coat).
Tempted to book your stay? The Pink Castle is available to rent via Cottages & Castles. For more information on prices and booking details, head over to their website.
Take a peek around...
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Emma Bridgewater releases 2023 Christmas collection – and it's lovely
Festive stockings
One tradition you're never too old for is putting out your Christmas stocking. This beautifully sewn patchwork stocking, featuring an embroidered letter patch, is perfect for holding lots of presents on the big day.
Must-have cushion
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Colourful plates
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Looking for a Christmas present sack? Sometimes a stocking just isn't big enough for all those pressies, which is why this green and red festive sack is perfect to snap up whilst you can.
Mince pies plate
Mince pies are a staple during the holidays. Serve up a delicious stack at your next Christmas party on this charming plate. It's also available in a larger version for £25.
Mulled wine ready
There's nothing like a comforting cup of mulled wine to warm guests on a cold day. Serve up this cosy Christmas classic in EB's large enamel cooking pot.
Christmas decorations
Want to spruce up the branches of your Christmas tree? As part of the new 2023 range, you'll find gorgeous felt figurines hanging from string.
Seasonal classics
Tis the season to be jolly, so serve drinks in these charming Love and Peace mugs. Each design features a pair of love birds, sprigs of holly and small hearts.
Fairy lights design
From plates to napkins, twinkling fairy lights are the inspiration for Emma Bridgewater's brand new 2023 design.
"Fashions in decorating may come and go but fairy lights go on forever. They just ARE Christmas; simple and perfect, pretty and kind of friendly. So, get out your fairy lights, drape them carefully all over the tree, plug them in and – hurrah," say the team at Emma Bridgewater.
Pretty tableware
Whether you're searching for stocking fillers or want to refresh your kitchen cabinets ahead of the holidays, the brand new collection has something for everyone. There are plates and bowls in a whole host of sizes, ideal for serving mince pies, Christmas cake and yule log.
Christmas mugs
Have yourself a holly, jolly Christmas with these charming Emma Bridgewater mugs. Buy for yourself or gift to a loved one.
