COWDEN FARMHOUSE
When the only neighbours are a herd of Icelandic Horses, you know it's going to be an interesting place! Cowden Farmhouse lies in a uniquely peaceful and private setting, in the heart of our own farmland on the east coast of Scotland. Whilst it's location has the feeling of 'getting away from it all', the many award winning eateries, a great beach, one of Scotland's most photographed castles, the UK's most northerly lido and the many other attractions of Stonehaven are just 7 miles away.
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The 1.8 acres of beautifully designed mature gardens offer a combination of lawns, woodland areas and decking, surrounded by gorgeous beech hedges - home to a multitude of birds. There is also a lovely walk, accessed from the front lawn - ideal for children or dogs to have a run around! The outdoor spaces are generously equipped with swings, outdoor games, hammocks, comfortable seating, a summer house, a Weber gas bbq, and a very popular firepit. (Marshmallows and metal skewers provided!) Introduced in 2022, our Hare-Trail Treasure Hunt has proved to immensely popular. A great opportunity for every member of your group to get involved, explore the grounds around Cowden, and find the treasure!
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The interior of Cowden Farmhouse has been designed for fun - not just for the kids, but for adults as well. As a designer and maker of unique creations, Liz has furnished the house with humour, colour and ingenuity. A table lamp crafted out of a combine-harvester air filter, a crystal chandalier fashioned from a bicycle wheel, intricate feather lamp shades and mirrors, and skilfully decoupaged furniture. Whilst admiring the works of art, guests might also enjoy seeking out the 13 golden hares which are hiding throughout the house! In a world of neutrally decorated holiday cottages, Cowden Farmhouse stands out as entertaining and quirky, whilst maintaining a high level of comfort and meticulous cleanliness.
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We've put a lot of thought into equipping the house with everything our guests could need, from a boot jack, torch and umbrella in the front porch, to an insulated picnic bag and freezer blocks for picnics. The kitchen has all the appliances you'd require to whip up a five course meal, (you're on holiday - why would you?!) and we provide all of the sundry items from washing powder to olive oil. The only shopping you'll need to do is for your food and drink!
GALLERY
Sitting in a commanding position with far reaching views.
A double sink, double range & large fridge/freezer for catering on a large scale!
The central sitting area is open to the kitchen and sun lounge.
Food preparation can be a social affair in this open plan area.
As many eggs as you wish.
Incredible views from the dining table & comfy seats.
Once part of an old farm bike - now an intricate crystal chandalier.
In it's previous life this was our combine harvester's air filter!
Live plants add a touch of homeliness - with a touch of humour!
OUR ROOMS
The heart of the house is a communal sitting area with a log burning stove, open to the well equipped, traditional farm kitchen. The sun lounge also forms part of this space, & is home to a large dining table & spectacular views, and leads directly out onto to some decking - the perfect sun trap for morning coffee and evening drinks!
Also on the ground floor is a large bathroom, (roll top bath) the Master bedroom, (king sized bed) a single bedroom and a lounge - furnished with 3 sofas and a television with dvd player. The lounge is a great place for everybody to relax in the evening, with it's wonderful log burning stove, opulent colours, rich textures, and phenomonal art pieces - it's a real talking point! Accessed from the lounge is a further versatile room which has a quality leather king size sofa bed, allowing it to be used as additional sleeping quarters, or extra social space.
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Upstairs there are 2 bedrooms ( 1 King and 1 twin) and a shower room. Quality, comortable beds, feather duvets and luxurious bed linen ensure a sound, comfortable night, and the wonderful views from the bedroom windows are quite special.
EATING IN / EATING OUT
South Aberdeenshire is renowned for it's wealth of top quality food and drink. From freshly caught seafood, to prime beef, fresh vegetables, soft fruits, and a drink to round off the day, it's all available from several excellent farm shops nearby, and can be brought home to cook on the large kitchen range, or barbecued out on the decking.
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But, if it's cook's night off, we're lucky to have a multi award winning fish and chip shop, and also a multi award winning Indian restaurant and take away, within easy reach. There are also a great selection of restaurants in Stonehaven, Royal Deeside and Aberdeen.
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THINGS TO DO
Some of our guests barely leave Cowden Farmhouse - finding the peace and relaxation provides everything they're looking for in a holiday, but others find it to be the perfect base for getting 'out and about' to see all the area has to offer. It's ideally placed for easy access to superb beaches and into the countryside - for gentle walks or cycling, and for the more adventurous guests there are great hill walks and challenging mountain bike trails within easy reach.Depending on the time of the year, shooting and fishing is widely available in the area, and can be arranged.
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Just 7 miles away from Cowden Farmhouse is Stonehaven - a lovely seaside town with a picturesque harbour - offering a great choice of pubs and restaurants. Stonehaven is home to the famous Dunnottar Castle - a partly ruined medieval fortress, located out on a spectacular rocky headland. It's an impressive sight, and well worth a visit. If you fancy the perspective of viewing it from the sea, Stonehaven has two fantastic options - 'Stonehaven Shellfish Boat Trips' operates a variety of boat trips around our local coastline, or for the really adventurous explorer, 'Stonehaven Paddleboarding' run fantastic sessions allowing you to go right into the caves, coves, and waterfalls.
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The town's other great attraction is the Olympic sized, heated sea water, outdoor swimming pool. It's sheltered sun terraces, on-site cafe and midnight swim sessions are great fun the whole family. Adjacent to the outdoor pool is an indoor leisure centre, with another swimming pool, badminton courts and fitness rooms.
Aberdeen and Dundee are both easy to get to, and have numerous attractions from museums and galleries to ice rinks and bowling - there truly is something for everyone!
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