Skip to content

Grounds

Rooted in Magic

Transformative moments begin here

A seemingly endless supply of magic and wonder exists across our slice of coastal Scotland. Guests have access to secluded beaches, enchanting gardens, a glen that stretches for miles, waterfalls and lochs. Our idyllic grounds provide a magical setting for you to spend your days kayaking the coves, seal watching, and going on fishing expeditions.

You can find plenty of adventure on solid ground as well. With trails, hikes, archery and more, our estate is filled with countless opportunities for escapades and exploration. Want to go off-site for an afternoon? Trek on over to the Dunskey Golf Course and Portpatrick Harbour for a leisure day of golf and pub-hopping—both are just a twenty minute walk away.

Contact Us

Lochs

Get Lost in Nature

Boating along our picturesque upper and lower lochs is a great way to spend the afternoon. A haven for wildlife, be sure to watch for our two resident swans and their cygnets, who hatch in Spring. Grab your binoculars and a good wildflower book to bird watch and learn about your favourite flowers— the area surrounding the lochs are filled with growing primulas, gunnera and other water loving plants.

Fairy Glen

An All Ages Playground

Home to breathtaking cliffs, trails, and babbling brooks, the Fairy Glen is our most popular spot on the estate’s grounds, thanks to a large array of wildlife and wilderness found here. A great place for foraging, feel free to pick wild garlic, mushrooms, nettle and dandelions found alongside rolling pastures. Feel like taking a walk? Follow the glen to cross over a 200 year old stone bridge that overlooks a waterfall or pick up the coastal trail to the lighthouse for magnificent views of Ireland, the Isle of Man to the south and the Mull of Kintyre to the north.

Woodlands

Walk on the Wild Side

Surrounding the castle are magnificent beech woodlands. Planted sometime in the 18th century, this magical forest is home to both wild and manicured gardens, winding trails, and majestic trees. Fairy doors dot the entry into the woods, letting you know you’re about to find yourself on an enchanting adventure.

 

Beaches

Take Your Stay Seaside

A private path takes you from the castle down to two secluded beaches. Spend a day watching the seals, BBQ’ing and spelunking at Rocky Bay or, for a more adventurous outing, head to Sandy Bay for an afternoon of rock-climbing, kayaking, and exploring rock pools. North of the estate under Killantringan Lighthouse lies a third beach, Knock Bay. Visit at low tide for nearly a mile of sand. Just over the headland is the wreckage of Craigantlet, a container ship which ran aground on 26 February 1982.

Coastal Walks

A Rugged Coastline

Dunskey Estate extends for 2 miles from Portpatrick to Killantringan Lighthouse. Enjoy invigorating walks along stunning, unspoiled coastline with views of the Mull of Kintyre, the island of Ireland, the Isle of Man and northern England. Head south of Portpatrick to the ruins of old Dunskey Castle perched on a rocky outcrop, one hundred feet above the crashing waves. Be on the lookout for seals, Lion’s Mane jellyfish, basking sharks and a multitude of birdlife.

Book Your Stay

The Dunskey team is excited to introduce a new platform for lodge booking. If you have any questions or need assistance during the booking process, please email us at hello@dunskey.com.

*Dunskey Estate currently accepts a minimum three-night stay throughout the year, with flexible check-in and check-out dates. During Christmas and New Year 2023, we have a seven-night minimum stay, with check-in and check-out dates as Wednesday December 20th, Wednesday December 7th, and Wednesday January 3rd.

Explore all lodges