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December 15, 2024 9:41 am
Published by Paula Haworth
ReadingLasses, an award winning Cafe/Bookshop (with its own Private Flat) an acknowledged focal point within Wigtown, Scotland’s National Book Town, home of the thriving Annual Wigtown Book Festival which attracts leading authors/speakers/actors etc.
For all its charm and delights this is a successful & profitable business of appeal to both the seasoned business owner or those seeking an opportunity to take a different direction ….all picturesquely set on Scotland’s South West/Solway Coast.
Often referred to as the Pink Bookshop/Café, the building is believed to date circa 1830's (to be confirmed from Title Deeds), formerly a private home, butchers and a solicitors, it started its new life as "Reading Lasses" in 1998 when Wigtown was awarded Scotland's National Book Town status, and it gradually established itself as a feminist bookshop with the café being introduced later.
The property is set amidst a Traditional Terrace of Stone Built properties, comprising a mix of privately owned homes with some commercial properties, overlooking the picturesque central town park with adjacent bowling green. Over 2 levels with an extended ground floor to the rear and large attached single storey outbuildings including “The Hut” …whilst on the upper level a Private Two Bedroom Flat serves as a very stylish & comfortable retreat out of hours.
The Café Bookshop area occupies the entire ground floor, entered via the main door front entrance onto a reception hall with a public wc located off, the main front facing building features a cosy "Snug" with seating whilst adjacent a separate seated lounge area known as the "Woman's Book Room".
Moving through from the front to the charming "Middle Café" which is a popular central area with multiple seating areas overlooked by a kitchen/bar/cake counter which serves as a very popular focal point (with the till area adjacent) - window views from here to the rear garden which features outdoor seating.
Moving rearwards from the Middle Café to the bright/contemporary styled Garden Café (GC) which has a large seated area serving visitors with a focal point Dowling multi-fuel Fire for chillier days whilst a cleverly screened kitchen area provides a convenient preparation area for delivering the menu selections for visitors, a 2nd public wc serves the Garden Café.
A rear door from the GC leads onto the outdoor seating and the pathway which stretches rearwards alongside the substantial newly refurbished outbuildings (noting that there is a right of way for adjacent private homeowners along the rear pathway to the rear lane as their gardens are located on the opposite side of the pathway).
The presentable & refurbished existing outbuildings are split into 3 main areas, developed to provide additional storage & occasional venues for external/seasonal events. Clearly they offer further potential (noting planning permission/use requirements for any alterations or change of use). Beyond the outbuildings are private gardens which provide a home grown produce area, private seating for the owner with the rearmost (area next to the stone boundary wall/lane) being lawned with mature trees and breathtaking glimpses of the splendid Solway Coast on the horizon.
An internal private door/staircase just off the Middle Café leads to the Private Flat which occupies the upper level. Tastefully presented apartments are featured, used by the owner, comprising a welcoming reception hall, most appealing lounge with views over the park/bowling green, charming "master" bedroom (No 2) to the rear with additional bedroom (No 2) to the front (currently a study - could be a separate kitchen, subject to any required planning etc) whilst a very stylish bathroom is situated off the reception hall.
The specification includes central heating (Oil) and double glazing. Mains water, electricity and drainage. ReadingLasses is currently licenced to serve alcohol.
Reading Lasses normally opens year round with the hours/days of opening usually 10am to 4pm 5 Days a week - Closed each Wednesday & Sunday. The income is divided between the very popular Café and the extensive bookshop/gift sales. The annual Wigtown Book Festival provides a very healthy uplift in income during the Autumn period whilst the most productive months for turnover will be Spring/Summer. The new owner may consider developing the business further, perhaps extending hours, developing bookshop sales or looking at more events, however the existing owner has successfully developed the business, originally with the emphasis on the Café with the bookshop sales developing/adding to the income stream. Turnover is financially very healthy providing profits/salary for the owner whilst providing for overheads/staff costs. The existing staff have been with the business for some time and are believed to be happy to remain within the business following its sale. The business is only being offered for sale due to the owner retiring (there may be an option for an informal "handover" period to allow the new owners to familiarise themselves with the property).
Summary - Multi Award Winning Café Bookshop with Outbuildings, located in Scotland's National Book Town, refurbished/developed/enhanced by its current Owner, successfully/profitably trading, 33 indoor covers plus up to 12 covers externally (weather permitting), currently licenced, existing staff happy to consider working with the new owner. Private 2 Bedroom Flat on upper level. A "Turnkey" business, ready to trade from Day 1 of New Owners purchase. Option to develop further (subject to any required planning permission etc).
The Owner will happily consider serious enquiries via their estate agent - Contact Graeme Lumsden, Director/Valuer of BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS - blackhay.co.uk
February 20, 2024 9:00 am
Published by Paula Haworth
* NEW to Market - Available to View Now * Seldom available within favoured Prestwick locale, convenient easy walking distance of the seafront/promenade, No 10 Douglas Avenue has been a much-loved family home over decades, with the opportunity now for a new owner to acquire their next home to take them through their future years, whether with family or not.
An attractively styled Traditional Semi Detached Villa externally, internally featuring 5 well proportioned/flexible apartments over 2 levels with the undeveloped attic perhaps beckoning further development potential, noting similar properties nearby and their individual attic developments (subject of course to acquiring planning permission etc).
Prestwick remains Ayrshire’s “property hotspot”, with its well established mixed main street shopping/restaurants/amenities, whilst the sweeping promenade/seafront is within walking distance or a short cycle/car journey. Traditional Homes remain ever popular, of broad appeal and valued locally by family, professionals and retired/semi retired clients whilst further afield they attract Glasgow based buyers/those relocating from South of the Border, seeking a change of lifestyle from city to seaside ...and a better work/life balance.
A very comfortable home to its family over many years. Internal viewing reveals a flexible layout of well proportioned accommodation comprising on ground floor, a welcoming reception hall with staircase to the side (with a useful “downstairs” wc adjacent) leading to the upper level, a most appealing formal bay windowed lounge to the front with equally spacious dining/family room directly behind – this could be a 4th bedroom, if required, whilst a separate “L-shaped Galley Style” kitchen wraps around partially to the rear with access onto the gardens from here. On the upper level a bay windowed “master” double bedroom (No 1) to the front enjoys attractive sea views on the skyline with the golf course just beyond the adjacent newer build properties, bedroom No 3 directly behind is again of spacious proportion, whilst the smaller bedroom No 2 is also situated to the front, the main bathroom is located off the upper hall to the rear.
The specification includes both gas central heating and double glazing. EPC – D. Neatly presented mature private gardens are located to the front & rear, whilst a private gated driveway provides off-street parking and leads to a detached garage positioned to the rear. On-street parking is also available nearby.
In our view, a rare opportunity to acquire a well proportioned desirable home which invites one to ponder …whether to switch the lounge to upstairs to enjoy those fantastic elevated views, use the existing lounge as a family/dining room and the remaining rooms serve as bedrooms over 2 levels …with the undeveloped attic tweaking one’s attention as to what it could be (subject to that planning permission of course).
No doubt this Charming Home will attract interest whether in its current format or for the potential that it offers… To view, please telephone BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS direct on 01292 283606. The Home Report is available to view here exclusively on our blackhay.co.uk website. If you wish to discuss your interest in this particular property - please get in touch with our Estate Agency Director/Valuer Graeme Lumsden on 01292 283606.
April 9, 2025 4:23 pm
Published by Paula Haworth
* NEW to Market - Available to View Now * A desirable Detached Bungalow occupying favoured corner position within sought after residential locale of similar style quality homes. Featuring 5/6 main apartments over 2 levels with scope for the successful purchaser to re-style to their own specification/budget. In addition a much valued private driveway/garage are provided.
A comfortable home to its owner over many years, who has maintained the property, it is fair to say that the successful purchaser will likely modernise the property internally however the competitive price allows scope for such works. Internal viewing reveals a flexible layout of accommodation comprising on ground floor, spacious reception hall, lounge to the front with box-shape bay window, separate kitchen to the rear (access via rear porch to garden), a useful study (with staircase to side leading to the upper level apartments), a dining room which could be utilised as an alternative 4th bedroom if required, bedroom (No 3), whilst the main bathroom is off the reception hall. On the upper level, two further double bedrooms (Nos 1 & 2) with No 1 having a useful en-suite.
The specification includes both gas central heating and double glazing. EPC – D. Neatly presented mature private gardens are located to the front, side & rear, whilst a private driveway provides off-street parking and leads to a detached timber garage to the rear. On-street parking is also available.
Prestwick remains Ayrshire’s “property hotspot”, with its well established mixed main street shopping/restaurants/amenities, whilst the sweeping promenade/seafront is within walking distance or a cycle/car journey. Bungalow Style Homes remain ever popular with this style attracting a broad range of potential buyers – family/retired/semi-retired clients/1st-time Buyers etc, whilst further afield Glasgow based buyers/those relocating from South of the Border continue to seek a change of lifestyle from city to seaside (...and a better work/life balance) with Prestwick fulfilling their desire of a home in a coastal town.
In our view, an excellent opportunity to acquire a desirable Detached Bungalow with real potential for those wishing to create their own Special Home. To view, please telephone BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS direct on 01292 283606. The Home Report, Video/360 Tour, Floorplan/Sizes are all available to view here exclusively on our blackhay.co.uk website. If you wish to discuss your interest in this particular property - please get in touch with our Estate Agency Director/Valuer Graeme Lumsden on 01292 283606.
February 23, 2023 4:22 pm
Published by Paula Haworth
* NEW to Market - Available to View Now * A rare opportunity within this particularly favoured locale to acquire a most desirable corner sited Detached Bungalow. Featuring 5 Main Apartments (all on-the-level) with an undeveloped attic offering further development potential, subject to required planning permission etc. Set amidst neatly presented/mature private gardens which wrap around the front/side to the rear.
The property has been a comfortable home to its current owners over many years however the successful purchaser will no doubt choose to modernise to their own style/budget, with the competitive price allowing scope to do so. Noting the Home Report Mortgage Valuation figure of £285,000 for the property as currently presented.
Access is via the main entrance porch to the front which is most welcoming (a useful wc situated off) with inner main door opening onto an L-shaped reception hall which provides access to the remaining apartments (the access hatch to the loft area is located within the hallway). A most appealing well proportioned lounge is situated to the front with feature glazing to the side & rear walls whilst a door to the rear leads to the separate dining room. The kitchen can be accessed from the hallway or dining room (noting it is “dated” in style). 3 bedrooms are provided – 2 to the front & 1 to the rear. The bathroom has been re-fitted with stylish modern fitments, featuring a large walk-in shower cubicle (rather than a bath).
The specification includes both gas central heating and double glazing. EPC – D. Private gardens are featured to the front/side & rear, a mixture of lawns and established shrubs/flowers together with paved pathways. To the side of the property (as pictured), a double garage block with double driveway (noting the neighbouring property on the opposite corner has their double garage block attached). On-street parking is also available, if required.
Ayr is located on the South West Coast of Scotland, its coastline location proves popular with locals & visitors alike. A wide array of local amenities are accessible whilst the A77/A79 provides links north or south. Public transport including regular train/bus services from Ayr are available whilst Prestwick Airport is within easy travelling distance. Ayrshire is famed for its Golf Courses, historical connection with “the Poet” Robert Burns and many worthy historical attractions …and of course its sweeping seafront.
In our view, an excellent opportunity to acquire a highly desirable Detached Bungalow which will be of particular interest to those clients seeking a home which they can re-style. To discuss your interest in this particular property please contact Graeme Lumsden, our Director/Valuer, who is handling this particular sale – 01292 283606. To secure a Viewing Appointment please contact BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS on 01292 283606. The Home Report is available to view exclusively on our blackhay.co.uk website.
February 14, 2019 11:54 am
Published by Paula Haworth
* NEW to Market - Full details to Follow - Available to View Now *
Highly sought after Detached Bungalow within desirable locale. Seldom available within the current Prestwick property market. Occupying favoured corner site/gardens. Added benefit of Detached Double Garage with Driveway. Excellent accommodation comprising 5 well proportioned Main Apartments over 2 levels. Reception Hall, Lounge & separate Dining Room (on ground floor), Kitchen, Bedroom No 1 & Bathroom (on ground floor), 2 further Bedrooms (Nos 2 & 3) on upper level together with additional WC, Gas CH, Double Glazing, EPC – D. Private Gardens to front/side & rear.
April 3, 2024 9:44 am
Published by Paula Haworth
* NEW to Market - Available to View Now * “ HILLVIEW ” – Enjoying elevated distant hill views from its favoured Gardenrose Path position on the “highside” of Maybole, this larger Detached Bungalow offers a fabulous opportunity for those clients seeking a “blank canvas” from which they can create their own special home.
It is fair to say that latterly the focus was on the function of the property rather than whether it was styled internally to whatever current “interior trend” was popular …however, there is clearly scope financially for the successful purchaser to re-style to their own specification/budget and no doubt increase the underlying value of the property.
Easily missed behind its conifer fronted boundary, the property is attractively set amidst mature gardens with the large driveway accommodating multiple cars whilst those that favour the fun/opportunity that a large garage provides for “tinkering” will absolutely appreciate the circa 33’ plus long garage with similar length annex adjacent …one can imagine the sheer happiness of having such a large area of sheltered workshop/storage space.
Internal viewing reveals the well proportioned/flexible 4 Main Apartment accommodation of the ground floor whilst a very substantial floored/lined attic area currently provides spectacular storage space with potential for further development, subject to any local authority required permissions etc.
In particular, the central main door to the front opens onto the entrance vestibule (with its useful double storage cupboards either side), from here onto the welcoming reception hall, a large box-bay windowed lounge to the front (with multi fuel stove fire – also partially linked to the heating system), also to the front on the opposite side is a separate box-bay windowed family/living (or dining) room with concealed stairway leading to the attic area, 2 double bedrooms are located to the rear with bedroom No 2 having a patio door opening onto a sun room area (noting that this is “tired” and needs attention), a modern style kitchen is located to the rear however one expects that this and the adjacent utility room will likely be modernised by the successful purchaser, the bathroom is situated to the side of the reception hall. On the upper level, the aforementioned attic area is very substantial and will no doubt create all sorts of “ideas” as to its potential.
The specification includes double glazing and a non-working system of gas central heating which is sold-as-seen (due to the boiler being uneconomical to repair, plus its location may be moved by the successful purchaser as part of any “modernisation” plans). EPC – E. The aforementioned tandem style double garage (lovingly built by the owner & with remote control door – note the internal timberwork construction detail …and it has an “inspection pit”) with adjoining annex are undoubtedly valuable additions whilst the expansive driveway offers excellent private/off-street parking. The gardens are mature with a mixture of lawned areas, well established “screening” and a feature timber deck area to the rear. On-street parking is also available.
Maybole has recently benefitted from the opening of the A77 Bypass which removed the heavy flow (at times) of traffic moving through the "town" centre. It is approx' 9 miles (15 - 20 mins) by car to Ayr. The A77 provides a convenient major road link north or south whilst the popular Galloway Forest/Dark Sky Park is approx' 10 miles away, the A75 from Girvan to Stranraer is approx' 13 miles away. This particular property benefits from elevated distant hill views whilst it is notably within a short walk of the mainline train station which enabls easy commuting via public transport, there is also a bus service.
In our view…Hillview is an outstanding opportunity to acquire a very desirable Detached Bungalow that “radiates” potential …a Character Home to its current owners …now awaiting its New Owners taking it forward & creating their own Special Home.
To discuss your interest in this particular property please contact Graeme Lumsden, our Director/Valuer, who is handling this particular sale – 01292 283606. To secure a Viewing Appointment please contact BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS on 01292 283606. The Home Report & Floorplan/Room Sizes are available to view here exclusively on our blackhay.co.uk website.
February 5, 2025 9:48 am
Published by Paula Haworth
Rarely available, semi-rural Detached Bungalow with substantial Detached Outbuilding, enjoying picturesque countryside views. This highly desirable property offers huge potential, noting that it requires complete renovation however the opportunities which both the Bungalow & Outbuilding offer will appeal to the buyer seeking a real opportunity to create a very special home. The Detached Outbuilding has immense appeal whether as a substantial garage or workshop (or indeed a combination thereof), perhaps further residential development beckons however this would be subject to acquiring planning permission etc.
The property sits just off a semi-rural road on the outskirts of Crosshouse/Knockentiber, Kilmarnock with mixed style country style properties dotted along the road. Access is via a central rough driveway with the Bungalow to the left and the Outbuilding ahead to the right. Set within its own lightly bounded garden grounds (there is/are no additional land/fields included) with the rear backing onto wonderful open countryside.
The photos/virtual tour provide a clear impression of the very basic internal condition of the property however the potential remains clear noting the Home Report Mortgage Value of £160,000 for the property in its current condition. The property is offered for sale “Sold as Seen” with no warranties/guarantees.
Internal viewing of the bungalow confirms on-the-level accommodation comprising, corridor style reception hall with main door entrance from the front elevation, rectangular shaped lounge to the front with separate kitchen off whilst there is also a small breakfasting room/study located off the kitchen (door from kitchen to garden), two bedrooms are provided together with the bathroom. An undeveloped attic area is available. Electric heating is provided. Double glazing is featured. EPC - F. We are advised that there is mains power & water whilst waste is via a septic tank (location to be confirmed) – details to be confirmed.
The substantial Detached Outbuilding is brick wall with pitched roof construction. A central garage style door provides access, opening onto an expansive concrete base, approx’ rectangular size measures 15’6” deep by 33’6” wide with a floor to inner ridge height of approx. 14’. As aforementioned …it offers a wide variety of uses, noting some development ideas may require planning permission from the local authority.
Graeme Lumsden, Director/Valuer of BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS comments…
“ Every picture tells a story …No 7 Greenhill Holding has lost its way over the years and now needs to be brought into the 21st century however its potential burns very brightly.
The enthusiastic Buyer certainly needs to consider the works required however the opportunity to secure this type of property in this semi-rural yet convenient location is exceptionally rare.
The finished project will hopefully exceed its potential and bring huge pleasure to the successful Buyer/s. Personally I would love to see the New No 7 and see if it measures up to how I imagine it could look …it’s a fabulous opportunity! “
To discuss your interest in this particular property please contact Graeme Lumsden, our Director/Valuer, who is handling this particular sale – 01292 283606. To secure a Viewing Appointment please contact BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS on 01292 283606. The Home Report, Floorplan & Virtual Tour are all available to view exclusively here on our blackhay.co.uk website.
April 11, 2025 10:24 am
Published by Paula Haworth
* NEW to Market - Available to View by Private Appointment * (The Home Report, Video/360 Tour are freely available to view exclusively by visiting our blackhay.co.uk website, together with any additional photographs)
A rare opportunity to acquire a sought after Modern Bungalow set amidst a short terrace of similar style homes, within the highly desirable Carrick Gardens "Retirement" development, conveniently within walking distance of Ayr Town Centre.
Of interest to retired/semi-retired purchasers seeking to downsize to "retirement" living, however rather than being in a flat they can enjoy the privacy of independent living within an easily maintained bungalow, set within an attractive/private landscaped development. The sheltered open-porch frontage provides a much appreciated small/sheltered area to sit outdoors and enjoy the sunnier days from its south facing aspect.
The property has been a very comfortable home to its owner over recent years, featuring attractively presented on-the-level accommodation, comprising reception hall, most appealing lounge with space for a small dining table & chairs, separate modern kitchen with integrated appliances (door onto rear pathway), double bedroom and stylish modern bathroom (bath replaced with walk-in shower cubicle).
The specification includes both electric heating and double glazing. EPC - E. The development is professionally managed with appointed factors, costs shared communally between the development owners (full details available upon request). Residents parking facilities are incorporated within the landscaped development.
Ayr is located on the South West Coast of Scotland, its coastline location proves popular with locals & visitors alike. A wide array of local amenities are accessible within walking distance of Carrick Gardens. The A77/A79 provides links north or south. Public transport includes buses and a regular train service from Ayr whilst Prestwick Airport is within easy travelling distance. Ayrshire is famed for its Golf Courses, historical connection with "the Poet" Robert Burns and many worthy historical attractions ...not forgetting the attraction of Ayr's sweeping promenade/seafront with its broad beach and wonderful views.
In our view... the sale of No 35 Carrick Gardens is undoubtedly a rare opportunity to acquire a desirable Bungalow Home within one of Ayr's most favoured "Retirement" Developments, appealing to clients who are not yet ready for "flat living" and still want to enjoy the "independence" of their own comfortable & more easily maintained/heated home.
To view, please telephone BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS - 01292 283606. The Home Report, Video Tour, Floorplan/Sizes are all available to view here exclusively on our blackhay.co.uk website. If you wish to discuss your interest in this particular property - please get in touch with our Estate Agency Director/Valuer Graeme Lumsden (one of Scotland's most experienced estate agents with 39 years in the property industry) - 01292 283606
January 18, 2023 12:10 pm
Published by Paula Haworth
* NEW to Market - Available to View Now * Seldom available within desirable modern residential development, this comfortable Modern Semi Detached Villa will be of broad appeal, featuring 4 Main Apartments over 2 levels with scope to extend the accommodation – subject to acquiring planning permission etc. The development nestles between Ayr/Prestwick, convenient for access to either, together with surrounding amenities, schooling and the popular Heathfield Retail Park.
The well proportioned accommodation comprises on ground floor, entrance hall, most appealing lounge with open-plan dining room to the rear – patio doors onto rear decking/larger rear garden, adjacent to the dining room is a separate kitchen, whilst on the upper level, two double bedrooms and stylish modern bathroom (bath replaced with shower cubicle).
The specification includes both gas central heating and double glazing. EPC – C. The property is set amidst good sized private gardens situated to the front and rear with space to enjoy the outdoors/gardening or provide an enclosed child-play area. A paved driveway provides private parking for several vehicles.
In our view… a rare opportunity to acquire an ever popular Modern Semi Villa within favoured development, internal viewing highly recommended. To discuss your interest in this particular property please contact Graeme Lumsden, our Director/Valuer, who is handling this particular sale – 01292 283606. To secure a Viewing Appointment please contact BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS on 01292 283606. The Home Report is available to view here exclusively on our blackhay.co.uk website.
August 1, 2021 10:34 am
Published by Paula Haworth
*NEW to Market - Available to View Now* A rare opportunity to acquire a Modern Flat within easily missed cul de sac development, a short walk from Prestwick’s thriving town centre. Of added appeal, this preferred Upper Flat within low-rise building enjoys splendid open views to the rear including distant sea views of Arran on the horizon. Of broad appeal, the property will particularly suit those seeking a competitively priced home which they can re-style to their own specification/budget.
The excellent accommodation comprises, reception hall with feature twin glazed doors opening onto a spacious lounge which enjoys attractive open views, separate kitchen (again enjoying attractive views) with space for small breakfasting table/chairs, 2 bedrooms (the “master” No 1 featured a small yet useful en-suite shower room) & bathroom. Both gas central heating & double glazing are featured. EPC – C. Attic storage is available. Residents off-street parking is incorporated within the communal landscaped development.
In our view… an excellent opportunity to acquire a desirable Modern Flat enjoying a genuinely favoured position/outlook …with real potential at a competitive price. To view, please telephone BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS direct on 01292 283606. The Home Report is available to view here exclusively on our blackhay.co.uk website. If you wish to discuss your interest in this particular property - please get in touch with our Estate Agency Director/Valuer Graeme Lumsden on 01292 283606.