One thing that always delights me about Scotland is how, within a stone’s throw of most of our cities, you’re in some of the most beautiful countryside. It makes Scotland the perfect country for a rejuvenating staycation. For some reason, winter always has me craving staycations. Perhaps it’s the thought of cosying up in front of a fire, being surrounded by nature, or simply taking a breather when life gets too full-on. Recently, I discovered a farmhouse in the Kingdom of Fife that ticked all those boxes. Having grown up in Fife, I’ve often overlooked the area for a staycation, but my recent visit to Banchory Farm has reignited my love for it.
Just 40 minutes from Edinburgh, Banchory Farm is a working farm offering beautifully appointed self-catering accommodations, each with its own unique charm. As our car meandered along the country road through farmland dotted with sheep and Highland cows, the white exterior of our accommodation came into view. Being a lover of older properties, I gravitated towards staying in the original farmhouse, built back in 1794. The Grieves Farmhouse has been painstakingly restored to provide a stylish yet comfortable haven amidst the rolling countryside.
Unfortunately, we arrived on a day when the fourth storm of the season was rolling in. But stepping into the farmhouse was an instant retreat from the cold and grey outside. The large boot room welcomed us with its wooden bench, spacious sink, and charming farmhouse touches, giving a glimpse of the beautiful design to come.
To the left of the boot room is a generous, fully equipped kitchen. Combining traditional and modern elements, it’s a delightful space to spend time in. The soft salmon hues of the walls contrast beautifully with darker cabinets filled with everything you might need. A large antique cabinet holds crockery and cookware, and the double doors open onto an expansive garden. Although I couldn’t enjoy the garden this time, I imagine it’s the perfect spot to relax on sunnier days.
Through the hall is a very cosy lounge, where I spent most of my time during the stay. The forest green velvet sofa, paired with small chairs and a wicker table, created a space rich in texture and warmth. The darker walls enveloped you like a cashmere throw, and with the flickering log fire, it was the perfect spot to relax, play board games, and enjoy a hot chocolate. My only small gripe was the size and placement of the TV, but as most people visit to escape, it wasn’t a big deal.
Upstairs, the seagrass carpet leads to two beautifully appointed bedrooms. The main bedroom is exquisite and surprisingly spacious. Cosy cream walls are accented by stunning green-trimmed windows and doors, bringing hints of the outdoors inside. The pièce de résistance is the rolltop bath, perfectly positioned to let you soak while enjoying the countryside views. Although the room felt slightly chilly in the evening, the cosy bed draped in linens kept us snug, and we had the best sleep.
The second bedroom, though more pared back, was equally charming, with shuttered windows, a large comfortable bed, and plenty of storage. If I were being picky, I’d say the bedside lamps didn’t quite match the aesthetics of the rest of the house, but they were perfectly functional.
Another highlight was the grand bathroom, lavishly adorned with marble. The shower was larger than my bathroom at home, and Laura Thomas Co. products ensured we had everything needed for a relaxing experience. Touches of gold hardware added warmth to the space, and the little skirted light shades struck the perfect balance between traditional and modern. There’s also a small bathroom downstairs, just in case you’re staying with guests and they are taking too long in the amazing shower!
One pleasant surprise was the dedicated office space. With its green walls and old wooden desk, it was the perfect spot to work while listening to the wind howl outside. Even if you’re not working, it’s a great place to curl up with a good book.
Sometimes, properties like this can be so overdesigned that the original soul of the place is lost. But here, the house’s heart truly shines through. It feels as if you’re stepping into the lives of the generations who lived here before, with an undeniable warmth and love in every corner. I’d love to return in better weather to explore the surrounding countryside, knowing I could come back to such a welcoming and stylish home. It makes me smile to know this little gem exists in my home county of Fife, and I’m so happy to share it with you.
Photographs, styling and interiors by Ali Heath.
[PR Stay but all views are my own].
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