Sheltered by trees at the edge of a paddock in a Scottish hamlet, Heather is a stylish and dog-friendly shepherd’s hut where couples and solo travellers will feel transported far from everyday life. Joined by the flourishing forests and far-reaching views of the Lammermuir Hills, it’s an excellent spot for refreshing holidays filled with country walks as well as unhurried retreats spent relaxing beside the log burner. Beautifully curated in an understated Scandi-Scot style with natural textiles and a calming colour palette, it’s made all the better by the curved glass ceiling above the bed which is designed for stargazing on clear nights.
Climb the four steps up to the front door and enter the open-plan living space. The handcrafted kitchen is fitted with an induction hob and slow cooker, while the table and sitting area lies to the side with ample storage beneath the cushioned bench. This transforms into a double bed and makes the most of that beautiful stargazing window above, with another placed opposite to capture views of sunrise dawning across the hills. In the corner, the log burner with an unlimited supply of wood will keep you nice and cosy on cooler nights, while the heated towel rail in the bathroom will provide you with warm fluffy towels after your showers. True to the slow-living ethos, there’s no Wi-Fi or TV available, however mobile reception and 4G are generally good so you can keep in touch with the outside world as much or as little as you’d like.
The gently flowing Whiteadder Water lies just a few hundred metres away and is perfect for evening strolls along its banks before returning to your own quiet clearing, perhaps to light the fire pit and charcoal barbecue and decompress in the outside seating area. Should the nearby Hayloft be available, there’s also the option for guests to book the wellness suite and sauna as well as yoga classes, massages, and guided meditations directly with the owner.
On peaceful mornings, look forward to opening the double doors and heading out to roam the surrounding grounds and moors. You’re welcome to explore the wider grounds with easy access to the river and Community Orchard just a short stroll away, creating a dog-friendly route which is perfect for a leg-stretch. There’s also the option to rent stables and bring your horses along with you by separate arrangement with the owner, should you like to explore the trails on horseback. The small village of Cranshaws is situated just four miles from the border with East Lothian, where the pretty village of Gifford is home to excellent shops and cafés, while the capital city of Edinburgh lies about an hour away.
There are countless trails for hiking, cycling, and horse riding in this area, including two long-distance paths that cross the beautiful Lammermuir Hills – the historic Southern Upland Way and the Herring Road which runs all the way to the coastal town of Dunbar. Diverse wildlife thrives here, from roe deer and otters to ospreys and short-eared owls. Opportunities for water sports, wild swimming, and fishing are available at the nearby Whiteadder Reservoir, while a self-service cycle repair station at Longformacus Village Hall demonstrates how popular this area is for those exploring on two wheels – the Lammermuirs having been traversed in the Tour of Britain on several occasions.
With such an abundance of things to see and do both on your doorstep and in the South of Scotland at large, Heather is the ideal base for restful and active escapes alike. Browse available dates in the calendar and book your stay now.
ADDITIONAL ACCOMODATION
Heather Shepherd's Hut sits alongside Thyme Shepherd's Hut (sleeping 2), Rosemary Safari Tent (sleeping 4+1) and The Hayloft, Cranshaws (sleeping 2+2).
Getting availability
