Built between 1754 and 1759 for the 5th Earl of Dumfries, and with a unique collection of Chippendale furniture, the House has been described as an 18th century time-capsule since the principal rooms and their contents have remained virtually unchanged for 250 years.
In June 2007, HRH The Prince of Wales, under his title as the Great Steward of Scotland, headed a consortium of charities and heritage bodies to purchase this unique house, its contents and adjoining land, in order to keep this historical jewel intact and accessible to the public.
However, the House is only the beginning. HRH The Prince Charles has also set in motion several exciting projects that will not only reinvigorate the surrounding area, but will also create a lasting and creative legacy for many years to come.
The Coach House café is open 7 days from 10am to 4pm, holding bistro evenings on Fridays and Saturdays. Sunday lunches are served in the renovated stable block which also provides the ideal venue for conferences, meetings or lectures.
The Sawmill is currently being converted into a centre for traditional skills by Hope Homes Scotland. Other projects include the conversion of the laundry house and the establishment of a cook school.
The woodland walks within the 2000 acre estate include magical beech avenues, an 18th century ‘haha’, the 17th century doocot and magnificent sequoias overlooking the 1760’s Adam bridge. The Lugar Water has been home to otters for many years, if you’re quiet and still, maybe you’ll see them.
At the north end of the estate you’ll find our wonderful Nature Play Area, with outdoor class room, labyrinth and ‘cob’ hut. It provides an extensive and safe place for children of all ages to enjoy the benefits of being outside. To the west of the play area, on the site of a 1940’s British Army camp, now stands the Morrisons Farm at Dumfries House. This 900 acre farm was set up in partnership between Dumfries House and Morrisons supermarket.