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4 Guests
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2 Bedrooms
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1 Bathroom
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Pets Yes
Features
- Off road parking
- Ground floor accommodation
- Ground floor bedroom
- Garden / Patio
- Cot available
- Highchair available
- Washing machine
- Dishwasher
- Broadband / WiFi
Reviews & Ratings
39 Customer Reviews
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"2nd time we have stayed at Middle cottage."
And again it did not disappoint. It is a beautiful, thoughtfully maintained cottage. The location is perfect and the surroundings are idyllic. Being sited on Scottish National Trust land it is well maintained and the staff are so friendly and helpful around the site. A perfect location for exploring Fife. Would highly recommend.
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"The Hill of Tarvit is a stunning NTS property with beautiful grounds."
The middle cottage is lovely and very comfortable. Everything 5 star!
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"We had problems with the electrical heating system and additional electrical heaters which we had to use as the ambient weather was cold for this time of year."
The electrical storage heaters were complicated to use and there were no instructions which we could find. The additional electrical heaters malfunctioned and tripped the RCD which happened during day hours and we were fortunate to receive an immediate visit from an NTS Officer to deal with the problem. The cottage was idyllic and very well furnished and upgraded apart from a ridiculously large central pouffe in the sitting room. The Mansion House , gardens , golf course and walks are magnificent. It was a superb location for our Cocker Spaniel!
Many thanks for your feedback and good to read that the team at Tarvit sorted out the heating for you. We do have emergency contact numbers in all our Welcome Folders in case you have an issue during your stay. Property Owner
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"Storage heater system is non intuitive and impossible to regulate and control."
No handle for grill pan in kitchen, and no spare bin bags. Apart from these issues, the cottage is well appointed and maintained although new furniture this year in the lounge is less comfortable than last year. (Can’t get your legs under the dining table, sofa too big and dressed with too many cushions, and not clear as to the purpose of the very large pouffe which restricted access around the room) Otherwise wonderful accommodation and we have already booked for next year.
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"We loved the cottage."
It has everything you need and is located near lots of other places to visit. Rooms are spacious, and the garden and patio are a bonus. The grounds are well manicured. The only negative , is the car parking space is outside the garden on a grass verge, which was very muddy, as was path up to the cottage. So you got muddy going in and out of car and house. Easily rectified replacing some grass with decorative stones. But we loved our stay, mud and all !
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"The heating is on some sort of lock, and was inadequate when we needed it."
The emergency contact failed, and has still failed to respond. There is no wifi. The garden gate is hanging off its hinges, so needs to be propped up with a brick. There is currently building works next door, and it would have been useful to know that in advance.
Thank you for your feedback and are sorry that you had a few issues. We have checked with the property managers who have confirmed that there are also several portable oil heaters in the property as well as the open fire for guests who want to boost the heating. We are sorry that you couldn't get an answer to the first number in the welcome folder, there is a 2nd number also listed. You will be pleased to read that we have a new garden gate on order. Hill of Tarvit is a working estate, and we do have tractors on the estate but there is no building work going on. Property Owner
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"Lovely cosy home from home with an abundance of beautiful well kept walks at your door."
The NTS does a great job of this estate and the team are 5 star. Also on your door step is an array of birds to watch with your cuppa!! I would highly recommend Hill of Tarvit.
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"Wonderful cottage in a wonderful setting"
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"Quiet, relatively private location on the Hill of Tarvit estate, great value for the size and location, very clean and well furnished, except kitchen could use more items, especially a cafetiere or filtered coffee machine."
Perfect for golfers that want to play the historic Kingarook 9-hole course on the estate where you use old hickory clubs (I think you you have to book well-ahead of time). Also great for dog walking on the estate and nearby paths.
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"Perfect for us and a dog."
Loved the garden produce, the young gardener is a delight. We so hope to come again and maybe stay longer next time.
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"Delightful cottage."
Comfortable and superbly equipped kitchen . Wonderful setting. All good. Best holiday cottage ever! Owls, starry skies and silence! Thank
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"Middle cottage is a perfect get away from it all place."
It is a well appointed well equipped and well maintained cottage. It's a beautiful period stone cottage set in a beautiful garden. Easy to access and walks from the door. The fully enclosed garden was perfect for our two greyhounds. It was so peaceful with varied wildlife. The free access to the National Trust Property it stands in the grounds of was an amazing extra. The NTS who maintain the site were so friendly and helpful. We loved every minute of it- so much so we have already booked again to return next year!
Thank you so much for the lovely review, we are so glad you enjoyed yourself and we look forward to welcoming you back to Hill of Tarvit. Property Owner
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"The cottage was lovely."
We enjoy to stay there. We hope, we come back onetime. The surrounding Hill of Travid is very nice. We love the parc/ garden. Thank you.
Vielen Dank fuer Ihre netten Worte. Es hat us sehr gefreut Sie hier zu haben. Hoffentlich sehen wir uns bald wieder. Property Owner
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"The large shrub outside the kitchen window could be cut back as it made that area of the kitchen very dark."
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"The Cottage was very comfortable and roomy and an ideal location in Fife for the surrounding towns and coastline."
The garden was well kept and fenced off perfect for our 10 month old pup. The cottage was a little tired in places and could do with a little TLC for the cost of a week, especially around the kitchen area, which lacked hygiene behind the cooker in particular. The beds were comfortable and we got a good nights sleep as it was quiet and pitch dark, the only issue was the noise from the ground maintenance staff that were on site, one morning they started as early as 6.00am which is not conducive to a relaxed break, but that was the only real issue, early morning noise, Overall very enjoyable.
Many thanks for your feedback. We have scheduled a refurbishment of this cottage for Autumn into Winter 2023. We apologise for the early morning disturbance. Property Owner
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"Middle Cottage is in an idyllic spot and Hill of Tarvit is a lovely place to be situated."
However, the Covid excuse of no arrivals before 5pm and visitors must clear out by 9.30am in order to ensure the rental is properly clean, really is no longer viable. For an increased price, the rental is really only for six and a half days and our cottage had certainly not been thoroughly cleaned prior to our arrival. Furthermore, if there had been four of us staying – as Middle Cottage accommodates – there were not enough wine glasses (two of one size and one of another), only three large glasses, no matching sets of cutlery. The flowers and plants around the cottage have been allowed to grow so much that the cottage is quite dark inside. We have visited in summer before and not felt (as we did this time) the need to put on the lights during the day. All in all, lovely location and comfy cottage but desperately in need of TLC.
Many thanks for your feedback and we will certainly discuss it with the property team. we will check the kitchen inventory. The check in and check out times are set to allow the team to service all four properties at Hill of Tarvit, if we receive a special request for an earlier check in then we try our upmost to have the cottage ready for the earlier time. Property Owner
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"The property was simply perfect for us and our little dog ."
a home from home with all you could imagine that you would want or need provided. lovely and clean and warm and welcoming .high quality internal decor, including furnishings bedding etc . nts staff member arrived with fresh milk on our arrival and a little welcome pack for us and treats for our dog were very much appreciated. a kind and thoughtful touch . we loved our holiday and will highly recommend it to everyone we speak to when considering a break in scotland . the house / mansion ,gardens ,grounds ,hickory golf and most of all the staff were all AMAZING and so friendly ! thank you for a wonderful break .
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"A lovely, peaceful cottage, warm and comfortable, in beautiful grounds."
Can highly recommend and would love to return sometime.
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"Problem with storage heaters not working but staff had made a big effort to make sure we had enough plug in heaters and wood for fire."
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"Cottage well equipped in lovely grounds, which are great dog walking."
Very convenient for St Andrews and Fife coast.
Many thanks for your positive comments and we would love to welcome you back at Hill of Tarvit. Property Owner
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"A lovely stay at middle cottage,the only negative was the heating system didn't all work ,however the problem was rectified just the day before our departure."
All in all a welcome break.we will definitely return soon. Chris and Sue Bean with Megan the dog
Many thanks for your feedback. We are sorry to read that the heating failed during your stay and we are sorry that it was sorted the day before you left. We do look forward to welcoming you back and good to read that this hasn't put you off staying at Middle Cottage. Property Owner
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"A lovely, relaxing place to stay."
The National Trust staff are very friendly, extremely helpful and make an already fantastic place a really wonderful experience. The House, grounds and walks are exceptional.
Many thanks for your very positive feedback and we will make sure it is passed onto our team at Hill Of Tarvit. Property Owner
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"A cosy cottage with a sheltered and pretty enclosed garden - beautifully peaceful - with lovely walks on your door step and lots of wild life too - owls, badgers, bats, thrushes and wood pigeons to name but a few."
Thank you very much for your comments. We are very lucky to have National Trust cottages in such lovely rural locations, with castles and woodlands in the vicinity. You could possibly see otters from one of our cottages at Balmacara. Property Owner
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"Quaint cottage, very peaceful and has everything you need."
Nice welcome pack and this included chews for the dog. Garden enclosed and bird watching from the garden is great. Good area for chilling out and great for dog walking. Near to Cuper a nice town and a short drive from St Andrews . A good little find.
Thank you very much for the kind words about Middle Cottage at Hill Of Tarvit. Great to read you enjoyed your holiday there and we hope to welcome you back to Middle Cottage or one of the other NTS properties. Property Owner
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"Absolutely smashing stay at the Tarvit Mansion compound."
Lovely place and wonderful people there. We surely will be back!
Thank you so much for your positive review and we hope to welcome you back to Hill of Tarvit or one of the other National Trust for Scotland cottages. Property Owner
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"Disappointed that the house was closed most of our stay."
This year the Mansion House is open at the weekends so is available on Saturday and Sundays. The grounds and gardens are open every day. Property Owner
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"This was doggy heaven for our two dogs."
Walks galore, fab game of ball in the sunny large garden. The most friendly and helpful people are on the estate. Lovely homely cottage what’s not to like.
Thank you for your kind comments. We very much enjoyed having you as our guests and hope to see you again in the near future. Property Owner
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"Middle cottage was very well presented and very clean."
It's position in the grounds of the hill of Tarvet mansion was excellent with access to walks and ornamental gardens on your doorstep. The cottage with open fire was warm and comfortable with all the equipment you need for a great holiday. The large enclosed garden was also perfect for our energetic black lab. The dog treats there on arrival also went down well. We are already looking at dates in the cottage for next year.
Many thanks for your kind words and we look forward to welcoming you back. Property Owner
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"Lovely cottage with large rooms and quite garden."
Garden would benefit from patio area for the table and chairs because the garden is very sheltered the grass stays wet until mid day. Lovely walks around the estate. Bathroom would benefit with a blind and second window in kitchen needs blind to keep heat in. Centrally located for touring Fife.
Thank you for your comments. We are planning a patio but because of the popularity of the cottage we are not able to do it before the Autumn so that we don't disturb our guests. Property Owner
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"We had a wonderful stay at middle cottage."
The cottage was spotless and very well equipped. The garden and surrounding area is beautiful. We would be put off booking again due to the late check in of 5pm and very early check out of 0930. Our only other small point to note was it would have been nice to have a few logs supplied for the fire on arrival.
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"A wonderful and beautiful place for a holiday getaway."
Even though it a heritage cottage but full with modern amenities. However, the signage indicating the location should be a little bit more significant, especially for late evening arrivals. Nonetheless, it was a satisfying short break. Thank you!
Many thanks for your kind comments about your stay. Property Owner
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"The cottage was lovely."
Was extremely quiet so ideal if you want a break from hectic everyday life. We even opened the curtains one morning to see three beautiful deer very close to the garden fence. Very clean, everything you need, nice and warm (we did notice that extra heaters had been put in both bedrooms and the lounge, we assume because of previous feedback regarding the cottage not being warm enough). Unfortunately, because you cannot access the cottage until 5pm it was extremely dark and the outside lights were not working properly which made unloading our belongings difficult as the garden path to the door is quite long. Towards the end of our stay the lights appeared to work intermittently. During our stay, unlucky for us Storm Arwen hit! We had bought some logs and lit the fire beforehand so when the power cut at 6pm we did have some heat at least, and the gardener had kindly left firewood for us too. However, there was absolutely no light. You understandably cannot have candles in the cottage for insurance reasons, but the torch that had been left didn't work. I managed to speak to Mark who was listed in the welcome pack as an emergency contact and he very kindly arranged for a torch to be brought to us. The other big problem was, because the wind was so strong that night it was blowing back down the chimney and causing smoke and ash to fill the room which then triggered the smoke alarms in all the rooms. At one point it took 30 minutes (with the alarms continually going), to clear the room and we had to open all the doors to let the smoke disperse but of course this also meant all the heat escaped and all this in almost complete darkness. After the third time this happened we ended up having to let the fire die out and went to bed to keep warm. Other than Arwen we did enjoy our stay.
Hello, We are glad you enjoyed your stay even though it was interrupted by Storm Arwen. It sounds as though you had quite an adventure on the Friday night. Did you know that Arwen was 3 times worse than the Beast from the East and some areas of North East Scotland still do not have any power as we write this? We are working on getting the sensor for the outside light fixed. The part is on order, and hopefully will be fitted very soon. This should then solve the problem of there not being enough light to walk up the path. The Team at Hill of Tarvit Property Owner
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"Lovely cottage in wonderful location."
Well appointed property, all you could possibly need is provided. Well furnished with some nice pieces, blankets for the evening chill are in the bottom drawer of the big wardrobe (we found them as we were packing to go). Spotlessly clean. Safe and spacious garden for the dogs, deer in the orchard behind the cottage each evening and lots of owls and hooting through the night. Friendly staff and volunteers working on the estate. Lovely views and local walks, would definitely recommend this cottage.
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"We had a wonderful stay at middle cottage It was comfortable and relaxing, had ..."
We had a wonderful stay at middle cottage It was comfortable and relaxing, had everything you may need no lightning outside so bring a torch, there is one provided but just in case The garden was brilliant for our dogs, we will definitely come back
Hello, We are so glad that you enjoyed your stay with us at Middle Cottage and we will happily welcome you and your dogs again in the future. The Team at Hill of Tarvit Property Owner
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"Lovely cottage, we weren't allowed in until 5pm which is later than anywhere else I have been."
Premises were really dark and there was no outside light available. Cot for baby was lovely but highchair wasn't clean and straps were filthy. Heating available wasn't adequate enough for colder weather and we ended up buying multiple bags of logs to burn. Sykes time for departure was 9.30 but owners manual said 9 am. Again, very early and because of times of arrival and departure I would be reluctant to revisit this property.
Thank you so much for your feedback about our property Middle Cottage. The check in and check out times were adjusted when we came out of lockdown after guidance was given by the Scottish Govt and the Selfcatering Assoc. This allows time for the property to be properly aired before the staff go in to clean. We understand that at this time of year it is dark when you arrive for 5 pm and will do our best to adjust the sensor for the outside light, so that it comes on as early as possible. Even though our change-over company clean and sanitise the high chair and the straps vigorously, sadly the ingrained stains make it look unclean. We have new high chairs for all properties are on order. We provide oil filled radiators for extra warmth, but as you have pointed out that this wasn't enough, we will from now on provide logs for the fire. Property Owner
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"This was such a beautiful cottage and amazing location on grounds of Hill of Tarvit."
The house well worth visiting too. Mins from Cupar by car and 20 min walk to Ceres, lovely wee village with local spar & lovely wee heritage center and cafe. 20-30 drive to all the beautiful coastal villages, lovely walks. Ideal location to see East Fife. Oh and make sure you visit Secret Bunker too. Great for families and doggies Thank you for brill holiday cottage
It is great to read that you enjoyed your stay and enjoyed this part of Scotland. Property Owner
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"Beautiful idealic cottage, big secure garden in magnificent grounds."
Clean and homely with special touches, and added bonus of dog treats on arrival . Value for money perfect
Thank you for your kind words Property Owner
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"Lovely well equipped cottage with everything we needed for the week, even some dog treats upon arrival."
grounds are kept beautifully and a great place to walk our dog. lots of places to visit a short drive away.
Thank you very much for your kind words and glad you enjoyed your stay in the area. Property Owner
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"The cottage was lovely, and the garden great for the dogs."
The only negative, even with all the heaters on the cottage was still cold.
Glad to read you enjoyed the cottage and garden. We will look into more responsive heaters. Property Owner
Summary
- All ground floor
- Two bedrooms: 1x double, 1x twin
- Shower room with shower, basin, heated towel rail and WC
- Kitchen
- Living/dining room.
- Electric heating
- Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, small freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, radio
- TV and DVD player
- WiFi
- Power inc. in rent
- Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
- Travel cot and highchair available
- Off-road parking for 2 cars
- Enclosed private garden with table and chairs
- Two well-behaved dogs welcome
- Sorry, no smoking
- Shop and pub 1.6 miles
- The open fire is ornamental, cannot be used
- Holiday guests have access to the estate grounds outside of the regular opening hours
- The double bed is zip and link and can be made into two singles beds on request prior to arrival
- The opening times, visitor facilities and entry prices of all National Trust for Scotland properties and attractions can be viewed on their website here
The property
Offering a serene escape on the grounds of the National Trust for Scotland’s Hill of Tarvit Mansion, is Middle Cottage.
This single-storey cottage boasts homely charm and is ideal for a family or group of four to enjoy this incredible location.
With roses climbing the stonework exterior and a picturesque enclosed garden surrounding, Middle Cottage is a picture-perfect retreat, found in Cupar in Scotland's Fife region.
Enter this Georgian cottage to discover a charming living/dining room, where you can unwind after a busy day of activities.
Take a seat on the modern sofa or one of the contemporary chairs and watch a family favourite DVD, or simply enjoy the company of your loved ones.
Step into the pretty kitchen to find charming shaker-style units, flaunting rich green hues, home to all you need for a self-catered stay, as well as the added conveniences of a washing machine and a dishwasher.
When you're ready to retire for the night, choose from one of the two delightful twin bedrooms, complete with ample storage for all your belongings and served by the fully renovated shower room, boasting a heated rail to keep your towel toasty.
Feel refreshed after a morning shower before enjoying breakfast out in your own private enclosed garden, afterwards embarking on the day's adventures amidst your wondrous scenery.
Discover a home from home at Middle Cottage in Scotland.
This property can be booked with Refs. 1060389, 1060391, 1060392, together sleeping up to 18 guests.
EPC Rating: Band E
Short-term Holiday Let Licence No: FI-00070-F
Hill Of Tarvit Mansion Cottages
Resting just outside of Cupar in the region of Fife is Hill of Tarvit Mansion. Owned by the National Trust for Scotland and one of Scotland's finest Edwardian mansion houses, it offers an exceptional stay like no other. Originally built in the 17th century and later remodelled in 1906, it is now home to four beautiful properties awaiting your arrival for your Scottish adventure. The main mansion house boasts lavish furnishings, a Chinese porcelain collection and paintings by acclaimed artists, making this a truly unique choice for your Scottish escape. Staying within these stunning grounds offers guests access to explore all of the beautiful gardens, woodland, open heath and parkland, perfect for morning walks and picturesque afternoon strolls. Delve into the history of Hill of Tarvit with a traditional game of croquet on the lawn, or delight in one of the property's popular attractions, the original 9-hole hickory club golf course (charges apply), restored so you and your loved ones can enjoy the game as it was played in Edwardian times! Just ten miles from St Andrews, you can soak up the esteemed heritage of Scotland's oldest university and visit the world's most famous golf course, while the St Andrews Aquarium is a must-visit to see the black tip reef shark, seals and penguins, not forgetting to take a scenic stroll along West Sands Beach, before you find one of the many wonderful restaurants or cafés. More wondrous coastline awaits at East Neuk of Fife, with quaint harbours, pristine beaches and plenty of eateries offering freshly caught seafood on the menu, while another National Trust for Scotland property, Falkland Palace & Garden, rests within easy reach and is home to an impressive formal garden, awe-inspiring Renaissance architecture, and one of Britain’s oldest tennis courts, wonderfully placed next door to the Lomond Hills Regional Park. Kellie Castle & Gardens (NTS) is also just a scenic car journey away, here you can roam amidst the Arts & Crafts garden, observe one of the oldest ornamental plaster ceilings in Scotland in the library, and visit the sculpture studio of Hew Lorimer in the stables! Embark on your next adventure around Scotland from the enchanting Hill of Tarvit Mansion Cottages.
About the location
CUPAR, FIFE
St Andrews 9.7 miles; Kirkcaldy 17.8 miles
Enveloped by rolling hills, positioned alongside the babbling River Eden, in the historic county of Fife, is the picturesque town of Cupar. It retains much of its medieval character including a number of historic buildings; the Hill of Tarvit, an Edwardian mansion being well worth the visit. Owned by the National Trust for Scotland since 1949, the house contains an impressive collection of 18th-century Chippendale and French furniture, as well as Chinese porcelain and lovely Dutch paintings. The Scottish Deer Centre nearby covers over 55 acres of greenery, with 13 species of deer from around the world, Fife's only wolf pack, otters and other rare Scottish breeds. The park is simply beautiful and makes a superb day out with guided tours, woodland walks, nose-to-nose sessions and birds of prey demonstrations, along with so much more! The town offers a bustling hub of shops, pubs and eateries as well as an interesting mix of old and modern buildings. There is an excellent Golf Museum, aquarium, cathedral and a beautiful botanical garden. The Fife Coastal Path also beckons with so much to discover along its 117 miles of dramatic scenery. You can start at the Forth of Tay and journey on a wonderful walking experience to the Forth of Firth in the south. Pass through small fishing villages, across award-winning beaches and rugged cliffs on an adventure you won't forget in a hurry. Further afield you also have the town of Kirkcaldy and the riverside city of Perth. Choose Cupar as a base for your next holiday in Scotland, for a much-deserved break.
The National Trust for Scotland do not permit BBQ's on their properties - due to fire risk.
This property offers the following short breaks:
- Winter
- Off-season
- Last minute
- Christmas