Fantastic for families, this converted stone coach house is found in the sleepy hamlet of Kingston
Just three miles from North Berwick’s three sandy beaches, the small hamlet of Kingston, is brilliantly-placed to explore the castles, legendary links golf courses, attractive resort towns and renowned restaurants — led by Tom Kitchin’s The Bonnie Badger pub-restaurant in Gullane — that pepper East Lothian’s fantastic coastline.
If you can tear yourself away from the coast and head south, meanwhile, you’ll find a Concorde to inspect at the outdoor National Museum of Flight or one of Scotland’s oldest stone fortresses in the shape of Hailes Castle.
After fun-filled days out, exploring, enjoying bucket and spade days on the beach, or nibbling your way through local fare after a round of golf, The Coach House is a wonderful base to return to: it’s gently stylish, yet never at the expense of cosy comfort.
That’s especially true of the sitting room, which features two sofas, an armchair and an enormous wood basket filled with logs (these are supplied) to fuel the warming wood-burning stove. Full of natural light, which is accentuated by a cool, gridded porthole-shaped mirror, it’s a relaxing spot to relax with a book, or to watch a spot of TV. Similarly bright and cheerful is the open-plan kitchen and dining space. One half of this is given over to a six-person table beside French doors; opposite are platinum-blue cabinets topped by chunky counters.
All three bedrooms can be set up as super-kings or twin beds: handy should a multiple couples or multigenerational family be staying. Each has a TV, plus wooden shelving units that have been upcycled from former pallets; they also feature thick wool blankets – perfect for when the temperature drops - patterned blinds and textured block-printed linen and velvet cushions, which add a sumptuous, tactile edge. The third bedroom usually contains two twin beds, but these can be linked up to form a third super-king bed if preferred. Every sleeping quarter features soft, soothing colours and views over the rear garden. There are two stylish bathrooms; one has a walk-in shower, and the other has a shower over its soaking tub.
Equally ideal for families is the garden: enclosed by stone walls, it includes a large lawn where children or your dog can run about. To one side, there is also a flagstone patio (which can be accessed from the kitchen via French windows) where al fresco meals — a holiday must — can be enjoyed. For those looking for a little more sport to earn their supper, the owner’s tennis court lies close by and can be used by prior arrangement.
GROUND FLOOR
Access into the main hallway.
Bedroom one (one step up) with zip and link beds which can be converted to a 6' super king or 3' twin beds, in-built side tables, chest of drawers, hanging rail, wall-mounted TV with Sky Q box.
Bedroom two (one step up) with 3' twin beds which can convert to a super king. dressing table, hanging rail, wall-mounted TV with Sky Q box.
Bedroom three with zip and link beds which can be converted to a 6' super king or 3' twin beds, in-built side tables, chair, chest of drawers, hanging rail, wall-mounted TV with Sky Q box.
Sitting room with three-seater sofa, two-seater sofa, armchair, wood burning stove, Smart TV.
Kitchen with dining table seating six, electric oven, induction hob, large fridge/freezer (3 drawer freezer), microwave, dishwasher. Large sliding door which leads to the rear enclosed garden.
Family bathroom with bath and shower over, WC and basin.
Utility/boot room with washing machine, separate dryer, sink, bench seat, hanging rail. This leads to:
Bathroom with shower, heated towel rail, basin and WC.
OUTSIDE
There is a large courtyard to the front of the property which is not enclosed. Side lawned garden. Patio and lawned garden to the rear of the property which is enclosed. A barbecue is not provided.
PARKING
Parking for three-four cars in the courtyard directly to the front of the property.
BABIES & CHILDREN
Babies and children are welcome. A travel cot and high chair can be provided on request.
DOGS
One dog is welcome at an additional charge of £25.00. A further dog may be considered on request. Dogs should be contained to the utility/boot room until clean and dry (an outside tap is available). Dogs are not permitted on the furniture or in the bedrooms. The rear garden is enclosed by a wall and gate. This directly bounds onto farmland with livestock and horses, therefore dogs should be closely supervised around the area.
GUEST AMENITIES
Bed linen and towels are provided, along with hand soaps and shower/bath wash. The duvets and pillows are feather but hypo-allergenic options can be made available on request. A hairdryer is provided in each of the three bedrooms.
WI-FI & MOBILE COVERAGE
Wi-Fi is available (download speed approximately 6MB). Mobile reception is variable. EE is very good but more limited on Vodafone.
HEATING
Gas central heating throughout the property which is thermostatically controlled. There is a wood burning stove in the sitting room (logs supplied).
GUEST PRIVACY
The cottage is detached and is not overlooked.
TENNIS COURT
Guests are welcome to use the owner’s tennis court on request, but should bring their own racquets and balls.