The unspoiled grounds of Ellisland where Burns wrote the world famous Auld Lang Syne is open for holiday stays for the first time. Auld Acquaintance cottage, in the grounds of the farm on the banks of the Nith, offers the only opportunity to holiday at one of the national poet’s homes. Auld Acquaintance Cottage was originally built for a farm worker in the mid 20th century. 

Funding

Thanks to support from South of Scotland Enterprise, our cottage has been completely remodelled to ensure it is in keeping with the traditional 18th century buildings. Seed funding to obtain the initial permissions was given by Museum Galleries Scotland Small Grants Fund. The £230,000 refurbishment also made the building more environmentally friendly. This was done with external insulation and an air source heat pump reducing its previous carbon footprint by around 90%.

Joan McAlpine

“Auld Acquaintance Cottage offers a unique chance to immerse yourself in one of the places which inspired Burns. It’s so romantic and will allow guests to see nature through the poet’s eyes. 

“While Burns and his family endured hardship at Ellisland, this cottage allows guests to experience the traditional surroundings and atmosphere, but with modern comfort.”

 “All the profits from the cottage will be used to support the charity as we work to preserve the buildings and the museum collection, and in the longer term deliver a plan to turn the site into an international cultural attraction and education hub.”

About the Auld Acquaintance Cottage

 The luxury holiday accommodation includes an open plan kitchen dining area, an ensuite double bedroom and a single room. Residents can enjoy dinner looking over the River Nith, experiencing the views which attracted Burns himself to the location. The property can sleep three people and an optional 1 more using a sofa bed and welcomes dogs.

• Interior touches include a wood burning stove manufactured by Dowling in Wigtownshire.
• Hand carved furniture from Phil Crennell near Dalbeattie are also on display in the cottage.
• Antiques were sourced by 20 Castle Street, Dumfries.
• Blinds were made by Country Fabrics, Dumfries.
• Garden Furniture was made by EcoBenchez in New Luce.
• The lead contractor was Lewis Murray of Ecclefechan with contract administration carried out by McGowan Miller.
• Internal decoration was done by Alex Dill of Thornhill.
• Plans for the remodelling were drawn up by Dumfries and Galloway based architectural consultant, David Lamb.

More information about Auld Acquaintance Cottage, including how to book, can be found by clicking the button below.