Situated on the edge of Gatehead village a couple of miles from Kilmarnock, we booked it to attend a local wedding and have a look around the area.
We had booked The Cart Shed, one of three cottages on the property. It’s a tastefully executed conversion that blends modern amenities with the rustic style of the surroundings. Clean and fresh paintwork combined with pine wood gives that country kitchen feel and the upkeep has been so good you get a nearly new impression from the decor. It has all the facilities you’d expect of a self catering property that sleeps 6 in one king sized and two twin bedrooms. In fact I would say very well equipped, but it’s the extra touches that makes you feel right at home. The spacious lounge on the first floor has two large boxes of toys that filled my grandson with delight, plus there are books for all ages, DVDs and board games. The rooms have delightful little touches that make you feel this was put together as a labour of love. A jar of sweets in the lounge and delicious homemade biscuits left for us in the kitchen was the icing on the cake.
There’s ample parking right outside and just outside the entrance the kids can get to see the chickens, geese and a couple of donkeys. The cottage also has a small garden with a bench table and some chairs.
There are a couple of steps leading up to the front door and there are stairs leading to the first floor lounge and master bedroom, so anyone with mobility issues should check if this is suitable for their needs.
There is a 24 hour Tesco and Morrisons within 3 miles of the cottage, so no need to load your car up with supplies. There are some maps, leaflets and a folder provided by the owners to help you find your way around and discover local attractions.
Note: that the third cottage has only just been completed and at the time of writing doesn’t appear on the web site, so check with the owner to discover your full options.
Thoroughly recommended if you want somewhere to stay in the area.
“OLD ROME MEWS COTTAGES”:http://www.oldrome.co.uk/contact/