East Ayrshire Council

We selected the [listingCount] homes worth renting in this location

Book a stay in one of the best homes in [destination]

If escaping to nature is your idea of the perfect break, then look no further. Located in east-central Scotland, Fife is only a forty-minute drive from Edinburgh and an hour to Glasgow, but far enough away to feel secluded. Drive out if you’re looking to explore the cities, but we can’t promise you that you’d want to leave this home once you’ve settled in. Surrounded by trees and green slopes, this place is bright and modern, but still oozing with the potential for optimal comfort. Light the wood-burning stove, claim your spot on the plush sofa and let it envelop you as you let go of all the tension you’ve been holding onto. The egg chair is the perfect spot for bookworms, but you’d better be quick on calling dibs because we can guarantee everyone would be eager to have a go. Even though this home is the epitome of relaxation inside, you’re going to want to brave the nippy Scottish air to go outside – it’ll be worth it, trust us. Head out with a bottle of prosecco and slip into the hot tub – just when you think you couldn’t be more relaxed. 

If you have to leave, stay connected to nature by visiting the Lochore Meadows, or stroll through the Townhill Wood where you’ll encounter century-old trees. Cleish Castle is an eleven-minute drive away, with Locleven Castle being just a couple of minutes more. Head to the local golf course, eight-minutes from here, to play a round or two, or take to the loch for waterboarding. In between, pop in at Genaro’s Fish Bar or The Village Inn for a bite to eat.

Rest for the Soul

Built in 1714, this historic home makes the perfect setting for a magical stay in Scotland. You’ll be serenaded by an abundance of charm and character as well as a range of luxurious features. From the sauna, hot tub and fire pit, to the cosy rooms and indulgent roll top bath, every detail has been considered to inspire optimum relaxation. There’s also plenty to explore in the surroundings with a beautiful wildflower meadow and hiking trails within easy reach. It’s also just a thirty-minute drive into the heart of Edinburgh.


Garden of Tranquillity

This splendidly restored Victorian house will whisk you away to another era. Designed by a prominent 19th-century Scottish architect, this place retains its original charm. We were stunned by the ornate plasterwork, massive fireplaces and antique furnishings. Wake up to a view of the shimmering waters of Loch Long and The River Clyde. Peek through the telescope in the lounge and see if you can spot the isle of Arran in the distance. Every care has been taken to make the place as kid-friendly as possible – from ensuring the sockets and fireplaces are covered to providing high-chairs and cribs. Your little ones will also find plenty of books, toys and a games console. You can sip a cuppa undistrubed, while the kids play make-believe in the grand rooms and sprawling garden. If you can tear yourself away, miles of stunning natural trails await you in nearby Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. In the evening, stoke the logs in the fireplace, pour yourself a glass of fine Scotch whisky and make the most of your waterside abode.

Fire and Water

This magnificent turreted manor house boasts a prime position on the shores of the spectacular West Loch Tarbert. With vast grounds, access to a private pebble beach, and breath-taking views across the water, it's a great choice for a peaceful group getaway. The 19th-century property has plenty of space for socialising and relaxing. And while you’ll enjoy the tranquillity of your secluded spot, the pretty village of Tarbert, with its pubs, eateries and working harbour, is just a fifteen-minute drive away.

Loch View Manor House

This stunning estate sits amid 450 acres of beautiful parkland and boasts glorious views of the Trossachs. It’s in the heart of Scotland, less than an hour from Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Perth, and a fifteen-minute walk to the village of Kippen. You’ll be perfectly placed to explore the Great Outdoors, with excellent hiking and golfing nearby, and garden games to play. We love the orangery, the perfect spot for languid breakfasts after late nights of whisky tasting in the games room. When you need to unwind, you can chill out in the hot tub or curl up in the library with a book. This is an excellent choice for a family retreat or a catch-up with friends – you’ll never want to leave. 

The Ancient Yew

This period home is a great choice for those wanting a peaceful base from which to explore Edinburgh. Located in the leafy suburb of Eskbank, you’ll find a country park and riverside walks within strolling distance, yet you’re only a thirty-minute drive from the city centre. Or if you want to leave the car at home, just jump on a bus or train. The home itself has plenty to offer a family or group of friends. There’s a games room to keep the kids amused, a sun room to relax in, and a private garden for warmer days.

The Garden's Outlook

Set within 400 acres of Scottish countryside near the west coast town of Largs, this house is the kind of place where the outside world quickly melts away. Sink into the hot tub while rolling hills stretch to the horizon, or warm up beside the wood-burning stove after a day in the fresh air. Inside, the games room with a pool table brings fun to family gatherings, while the bedrooms make it easy to switch off and relax. Fully enclosed grounds mean dogs run free.

Copper and Heather

Offering stunning sea views across Loch Ryan near Kirkcolm in southwest Scotland, this garden cottage is the perfect country and coastal retreat to get away from it all and immerse yourself in beautiful, pristine nature. The home is part of the 18th-century Corsewall Estate surrounded by twenty acres of woodland and gardens – all for you to enjoy. From snowdrops, daffodils and bluebells in the winter and spring to a riot of colourful rhododendrons and azaleas in summer, you’ll be instantly struck by the vibrancy of your locale with countless walking and cycling routes around them to explore. Inside your home, a picturesque living room is arranged around a wood-burning fireplace, ideal for curling up with a glass of wine and some board games. The sunny kitchen, meanwhile, is all set to get mornings off to a hearty start over breakfast or afternoons snacks courtesy of the homemade brownies, milk, bread, jam, butter, tea and coffee provided. We love the country bedrooms with their floral touches and large windows proffering views across the gardens and towards the Loch, while the en-suite tubs invite long, luxurious baths after a day in the great outdoors. With a private garden equipped with a barbecue and croquet set, you can spend lazy afternoons having fun in the sun, or head to the nearby woods where a campfire beckons ghost stories over toasted marshmallows under a blanket of stars – your host even provides a tent and roll mats should you wish to snooze amidst the trees (all you need is your sleeping bag).  Factor in the estate’s dedicated play areas that offer a zip-wire, a climbing frame, swings, and a trampoline and there’s more than enough fun for the whole family. Boat Bank Beach is also a short walk down the estate’s drive and Lady Bay – a shell collector’s dream – is a ten-minute drive away.  Further afield, the charming fishing village of Portpatrick is also only twenty minutes away by car. 

Gaelic Stone

If it's good enough for Mary Queen Of Scots, then it's good enough for us. The iconic figure often stayed at this grand castle, taking advantage of the rural location and beautiful surroundings. Now, you can follow in her footsteps.

Feel like royalty in every room of this awe-inspiring building, each inch infused with historical significance. Rustic yet comfortable, the castle maintains its regal atmosphere whilst adding a layer of intimacy that puts you instantly at ease.

There are multiple rooms to discover, from the huge dining space to the cosy corners with chairs by the fire. The best part? You have the entirety all to yourself. After the host provides a tour and snippets of the history, you can explore each quaint crevice at your own leisure. Indulging in a royal feast in the dining room is a particular highlight. 

Such is the grandeur of the castle, we can understand why you'd never want to leave. But if you did want to stretch your legs, take a stroll along the beautiful River Tweed, leading to the charming town of Peebles. Here, you'll find welcoming pubs, a fascinating museum and premium restaurants.

Scots & Queens

Dating back to 1703, this former millhouse building has the charming appearance of a traditional country house, while the modern interiors and luxurious home comforts create an endlessly relaxing stay for large groups of friends or extended families looking to explore Edinburgh. Using the original raw materials of stone and wood to echo its heritage, and yet keeping things sleek and sophisticated with plenty of contemporary touches, the ground-floor sunroom is perhaps the best example of this beautifully balanced home. With glass on three sides of the room, you can enjoy the stunning garden view as natural light pours into this cosy hideaway. Pour yourself a wee dram from the characterful bar room with furniture, paintings and art objects hand-picked by the host herself, and head out and explore over 3.5 acres of the private gardens. Gather the troops for an alfresco lunch on the sun-dappled patio or for the ultimate R&R take a gentle soak in the swim spa hot tub – our favourite spot to sip bubbly. This can be the perfect place to fit in your morning exercise too – partake in an outdoor pilates class around the spa. In fact, whether you're looking to book a fitness session, an art class or a guided tour around Edinburgh Castle (less than a half-hour drive away), your host kindly takes care of everything, so you can enjoy a well-deserved break. 

Sunshine on The Esk

Looking for a practical base to explore central Scotland? This modern apartment in the village of Cambusbarron offers just that. Set within a historic mill conversion – once the largest in Scotland – it makes a striking first impression. Inside, the modern interiors might feel a little characterless for some, but they’re bright, spotless, and designed for easy living. When you’re ready to explore, the village shops, cafes, and a pub are within a five-minute walk, while ample private parking makes day trips a breeze. Take your pick from Stirling Castle, Gillies Hill, the Trossachs or further afield to Edinburgh – you’re well placed for all the must-see sights.

The Glittering Stone

Located in the prestigious Kings Park area of Stirling and occupying the entire ground floor of a sandstone period villa, this smart apartment is ticking all our boxes. A great option for friends or family sharing, the generous Victorian-era proportions of the bedrooms really show here, and there’s heaps of space to spill out in the free-flowing living and dining set-up, which leads outside onto a private patio with leafy green views. Location-wise, there’s plenty to explore on foot in and around Striling – starting with the mighty castle. Here to explore other central Scotland hotspots? Gillies Hill, the Trossachs and Edinburgh are all an easy drive away.

Book a stay in one of the best homes in East Ayrshire Council.

We selected the 390 homes worth renting in this location

Who's coming along?

Home spotlights in East Ayrshire Council

REST FOR
THE SOUL

GARDEN OF
TRANQUILLITY

FIRE AND
WATER

We've selected the top 3% homes in East Ayrshire Council.

Most popular homes in East Ayrshire Council.

Loch View
Manor House

The Ancient
Yew

The Garden's
Outlook

Copper and
Heather

Gaelic
Stone

Scots &
Queens

Sunshine on
The Esk

The Glittering
Stone

Loch View
Manor House

The Ancient
Yew

The Garden's
Outlook

Copper and
Heather

Gaelic
Stone

Scots &
Queens

Sunshine on
The Esk

The Glittering
Stone

Sweet
Morning

Check rates and availability for East Ayrshire Council.

Book with Plum Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Book a stay in one of the best homes in East Ayrshire Council.

We selected the 390 homes worth renting in this location

Home spotlights in East Ayrshire Council

REST FORTHE SOUL

GARDEN OFTRANQUILLITY

FIRE ANDWATER

We've selected the top 3% homes in East Ayrshire Council.

Most popular homes in East Ayrshire Council.

Loch ViewManor House

The AncientYew

The Garden'sOutlook

Copper andHeather

GaelicStone

Scots &Queens

Sunshine onThe Esk

The GlitteringStone

Loch ViewManor House

The AncientYew

The Garden'sOutlook

Copper andHeather

GaelicStone

Scots &Queens

Sunshine onThe Esk

The GlitteringStone

SweetMorning

Check rates and availability for East Ayrshire Council.

Book with Plum Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see the best in East Ayrshire Council?

REST FOR
THE SOUL

GARDEN OF
TRANQUILLITY

FIRE AND
WATER

Loch View
Manor House

The Ancient
Yew

The Garden's
Outlook

Copper and
Heather

Gaelic
Stone

Scots &
Queens

Sunshine on
The Esk

The Glittering
Stone

Loch View
Manor House

The Ancient
Yew

The Garden's
Outlook

Copper and
Heather

Gaelic
Stone

Scots &
Queens

Sunshine on
The Esk

The Glittering
Stone

Sweet
Morning