Whilst the term bothy may evoke images of simple, spartan living, a quick peek through the moss green front door of Shepherd's Bothy will confirm that this quirky rural bolthole exudes understated luxury.
The meticulously executed renovation includes sleek polished concrete floors and exposed stone and tulipwood walls alongside bold paint colours by Craig & Rose, William Morris wallpaper, Philippe Starck light fittings and bespoke light sculptures.
The full-height open-plan living area features local Chippendale-school Windsor chairs, artisanal hemlock log side tables, a hand-crafted Oak kitchen and quality appliances including an AGA oven. A fabulous welcome pack of local goodies awaits guests on arrival.
In the bedroom, a sumptuous Harrison Spinks bed is dressed with hypoallergenic vegan down duvets and pillows from the Fine Bedding Company along with high-quality cotton bed linen and towels. The bathroom has a powerful shower, heated mirror, underfloor heating and Heritage fittings. Guests are provided with vegan Moo & Yoo guest amenities.
Superfast broadband is delivered throughout the Steading via a direct dedicated fibre BT connection to ensure an excellent signal in every room.
In addition to the private terrace accessed from the living area with seating for two, guests have shared use of the wider grounds with others staying at The Steading, including a paddock which is ideal for outdoor activities such as games of rounders, picnics or a restorative yoga session taking in the view of nearby Traprain Law.
A woodland area comes complete with wooden follies – hand-crafted shelters which can be used as wildlife watching hides, playhouses or picnic shelters – plus plenty of boardwalks and bridges to explore. Make sure to keep a lookout for the resident wildlife, including hares, badgers, owls, and bats. The wider estate includes a wildflower meadow dissected by Papana Water and a further 18 acres of ancient woodland, perfect for walking.
Home to more than 30 pieces of art, and a varied programme of exhibitions and events, you’ll find the Richard Demarco Gallery housed within the main steading building. Next door, Eve’s Court café and wine bar showcases the finest quality local food from the region’s producers, making it the perfect spot for a morning cup of coffee, an indulgent meal, or a glass of wine or two.
Papple, within the old Whittingehame Estate, is an excellent base for exploring the local area. The outstanding local countryside and renowned coastline have much to offer keen walkers, runners, riders, cyclists and water sports enthusiasts. There are world-class golf courses on the doorstep, an array of museums, pretty villages and ancient churches to explore. Central Edinburgh is a 45-minute drive or a 17-minute train journey from East Linton station (4 miles from Papple Steading).
For larger groups, all five properties at Papple Steading can booked together (sleeping up to 25) - Papple Farmhouse sleeping 8, Grieve’s Cottage sleeping 8, Shepherd’s Bothy and Ploughman’s Bothy both sleeping 2, and The Granary Art Apartment sleeping 5 - the perfect base for large family get-togethers or groups of friends who would love a getaway without compromising on space.
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