Guests say
Guests appreciate the historic charm and beautiful setting of East Lodge, with its proximity to Crathes Castle and estate grounds offering delightful walks. The property's cleanliness and the recent addition of Wi-Fi are praised, while the fenced garden is a hit with dog owners. Some guests mention the property could be cosier and suggest improvements to heating and maintenance.
The property is generally found to be clean and well-presented, with several guests noting its cleanliness. However, a few remarks about a damp smell and a dirty oven suggest room for improvement.
The location is highly praised for its beauty and convenience, with easy access to Aberdeen, the Cairngorms, and estate walks. The setting within Crathes Castle grounds is a highlight for many.
Comfort receives mixed reviews. While some guests find the lodge cosy and the beds comfortable, others mention draughts, a small bed, and the need for better heating and softer sofas.
Facilities are adequate but several guests suggest improvements. Issues with hot water, heating, and draught-proofing are noted, alongside minor maintenance concerns like lighting and appliance instructions.
While some guests mention the lack of a personal touch and welcome gifts, there are not enough references to consistently assess the thoughtfulness of the host. Therefore, a score cannot be provided.
About this property
Banchory 3.6 miles. East Lodge - Crathes Castle, a delightful ground-floor cottage found in the Crathes Castle estate part of the National Trust for Scotland. This is a superb base for exploring with family, friends and four-legged companions. The extensive castle grounds give multiple options for walking and there are excellent play areas too. The property is only a short drive from Banchory with restaurants, pubs, supermarkets, golf courses, walks beside the River Dee and a range of shops. The kitchen is slick and well appointed. The lounge/ dining area is a beautiful space to eat and relax in. There are two bedrooms, a double and a twin, which are comfortable, bright, tastefully decorated and have plenty of storage. If you fancy eating outside there is a picnic table for you to dine al fresco style. Spend a relaxing afternoon strolling around the Crathes Castle estate; dating back to 1323 when King Robert the Bruce yielded the lands of Leys to the Burnett family, there’s plenty of history to discover while meandering through the impressive gardens, home to yew hedges which were planted in 1702, and finding a unique range of wildlife around the 240 hectare estate via six marked trails, spotting buzzards, bats, roe deer and herons along the way. See the wonder of Crathes Castle from its interior, with this extravagant property home to intricate mazes, tall towers, ancient turrets and antique paintings, being sure to watch out for the trip steps, made to confuse running attackers! Take the little ones to the fun-filled Wild Wood Adventure Play. Other attractions in the area range from steam train rides next to the River Dee at the Royal Deeside Railway, to coastal resorts found further afield at Cove Bay, Portlethen and Stonehaven. Travel over to the city of Aberdeen for a vibrant day of cosmopolitan wonders, discovering the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, an Aberdeen Ghost Walk, plus vibrant bars and shopping experiences. Further afield you can find the spectacular Craigievar Castle, where you can find a wealth of history, armour and art immersed in the castle said to be the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Cinderella, while Leith Hall, Haddo House and Pitmedden Garden also lie just a short drive away. Create lasting memories at East Lodge - Crathes Castle.
Banchory is a quaint town nestled within Aberdeenshire with the River Dee flowing through, home to a plethora of shops, pubs, restaurants, a golf course, fishing at the river as well as famous attractions such as the Crathes Castle and the bustling city of Aberdeen. Other destinations nearby include the coastal resorts of Cove Bay, Portlethen and Stonehaven.
Accommodation
All ground floor.
Two bedrooms: 1 x double, 1 x twin.
Shower room with walk-in shower, basin and WC.
Kitchen.
Living/dining room
Electric heating.
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, washing machine, dishwasher and freezer.
TV.
WiFi.
Fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Off-road parking for 2 cars.
Enclosed garden with picnic table.
Two well-behaved pets welcome.
Sorry, no smoking.
Shop 2.5 miles, pub 2.7 miles.
Holiday guests have access to the estate grounds outside of the regular opening hours.
Access is via the front door which has a step, also at the rear door to the property.
The charging of electric vehicles is not permitted.
The opening times, visitor facilities and entry prices of all National Trust for Scotland properties and attractions can be viewed on their website http://www.nts.org.uk"
Reviews (39)
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Freida
They have recently fenced in an area of the garden which is completely dog proof, even in the dark we were quite happy for our Lab to spend time alone out there. With the beautiful grounds to walk, it was a wonderful place to spend a winter break.
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Anna
Lovely choice of subtle tartan theme to the soft furnishings making the most of this pretty cottage. Lovely welcoming touches - milk in fridge and fresh flowers. Kitchen pans very nice to use! Plenty of hot water and heating worked well. Fabulous location - I'll be back.
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Neil
Location is everything and with a 5 year old Wowzer who loves woodland walks we were in heaven. Beds comfy and firm, Wi-Fi excellent heating great. Kitchen will be upgraded soon .. not sure why as it was lovely. A Smart TV would have tipped 5 * instead of 4*