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November 9, 2022 11:00 am
Published by Paula Haworth
“Loudonstone” – A rare opportunity to acquire a Modern Style Detached Villa within highly desirable Alloway residential locale comprising mixed style higher worth/quality homes. This particular property has been a comfortable family home to its owner who has maintained the property, albeit the competitive price allows scope for the successful purchaser to re-style/modernise to their own specification/budget.
Enjoying a most attractive setting amidst larger mature private gardens offering much valued privacy, with scope/space to extend the footprint of the property or develop the attached double garage (subject to required planning consent etc). An added feature is the “horseshoe” shaped private driveway which provides dual access/exit.
The accommodation is well proportioned, laid out over 2 levels, comprising on ground floor, welcoming reception hall with useful cloakroom/wc off, spacious lounge with twin doors to rear leading onto a separate dining room (can also be accessed from the kitchen) with door from here onto delightful rear gardens, a breakfasting style kitchen (older style), bedroom No 1 (which could be an additional public room, if required). On the upper level, a spacious upper hallway provides access onto 4 further bedrooms and a family sized bathroom (with bath & separate shower) – noting that 3 bedrooms are of spacious double size (No 5 particularly so, also featuring a door onto the elevated terrace over the double garage) whilst bedroom No 3 is of single size.
The specification includes both gas central heating & double glazing. EPC – D. A substantial attached double garage with remote controlled doors provides secure parking/storage with an internal door linking to the rear garden. As aforementioned, the garage does offer further development potential. The horseshoe shaped driveway provides generous private parking whilst on-street parking is also available, if required. The gardens provide valued privacy, are of larger size, a combination of lawn/paving/mature shrubs & flowers with evergreen screening on the boundaries. A delightful summer house invites one outdoors on better days whilst a large timber shed provides storage for garden equipment etc.
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.
Graeme Lumsden, Director/Valuer of BLACK HAY Estate Agents comments…
“Some things don’t change, even after my 35 Years as an Estate Agent …a property’s location defines to a very large extent its desirability.
Cairn Crescent is undoubtedly a highly desirable location …add in its detached style, flexible 7 main apartments, substantial private gardens, horseshoe driveway, scope to develop …all of these highlight that the successful purchaser will secure the opportunity to create their own Special Home in one of Ayr’s most desirable locations”
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 Floorplan/Room Sizes are available to view on our blackhay.co.uk website.
July 30, 2018 11:37 am
Published by Paula Haworth
TREVONA - enjoying favoured Cambusdoon Drive address, one of Alloway's most highly regarded residential locales, where one can appreciate individually styled homes from their wider "Avenue" setting.
This desirable home will perhaps be of particular appeal to the client seeking a Detached Bungalow style home which combines flexibility of use in terms of the accommodation, presently featured over two levels, & the option to entertain using its well-proportioned apartments - a substantial Reception Hall, Lounge & Dining Room being particular highlights which capture one's attention.
Trevona has been a much loved home for its present owner however it would now benefit from modernisation, hence the competitive price allowing scope for the successful purchaser to re-spec' to their own style/budget. Some buyers may be attracted with Trevona's development potential, as seen with some nearby homes/gardens which have been extensively redeveloped - subject to the required planning permission etc.
The property retains considerable character & charm with a welcoming/comfortable feel from its well-proportioned accommodation which comprises - ground floor, reception hall, lounge, dining room, kitchen, 2 bedrooms, main bathroom (shower room adj'), utility area, sun/garden room. Whilst on upper level, 2 very spacious bedrooms (Nos 3 & 4) which offer flexibility of use (one could envisage an upper living/family room enjoying picturesque garden views) whilst a central upper bathroom serves these bedrooms.
The current specification includes gas central heating whilst glazing is predominately older style single, some secondary glazing. An attached double garage (with integral access) sits beyond the circular private driveway. The private gardens are well established with Trevona centrally positioned on the plot to enjoy a sizable area both to the front & rear.
Graeme Lumsden, Director/Valuer of BLACK HAY Estate Agents comments - "Celebrating my 30 Years within the estate agency industry I still take great joy from marketing a home which has clearly been much loved & enjoyed by its owner.
Trevona ticks many of the boxes for those more demanding buyers who are searching for a quality home in this particular price range… however it also offers the successful purchaser the opportunity perhaps to add their particular character into Trevona and take it forward through the next several decades, whether by re-styling or redeveloping.
Whatever the New Owner chooses to do they will appreciate that they begin with what has clearly been a quality home in one of Alloway/Ayr's most highly regarded locales."
May 11, 2023 12:35 pm
Published by Paula Haworth
* NEW to Market - Available to View Now * The Dhorlin, Prestwick - A fabulous opportunity to acquire a substantial Traditional Detached Cottage Style Bungalow featuring superb 7/8 Main Apartment accommodation. This desirable home is deceptive externally, the front elevation of subtle "Cottage Style". Internal viewing reveals a professionally extended home with well proportioned apartments throughout whilst the very substantial extended breakfasting kitchen/dining/family area to the rear is a spectacular focal point. In addition, the formal bay windowed lounge is now open-plan to the rear (with the former 5th bedroom), making a striking public room of very substantial proportion.
The property enjoys a favoured setting on the "seafront" side of Prestwick Main Street with Montgomerie Road being just off Links Road where one can stroll past Prestwick Golf Club to the sweeping promenade/seafront. Parking for the property is "on-street" however the current owners instantly appreciated the quality/size of The Dhorlin and were laser focused on where they intended living rather than parking their car.
The most appealing accommodation is entered via the welcoming reception hall where one can visibly appreciate the length through to the open-plan extended family area. From the hallway, access onto the remaining ground floor apartments whilst a discretely positioned staircase provides access to the upper level. A useful small understair utility together with a stylish separate "downstairs" shower room/wc are located off the reception hall. The aforementioned formal lounge extends substantially in length as it now incorporates the former 5th bedroom however this could be returned to two separate apartments (by the successful purchaser) if a separate 5th bedroom was required. Two spacious double bedrooms are featured (Nos 1 & 2, to the front & rear respectively) with No 2 currently being used as a "craft/hobby room".
As one moves through to the rear extension, the hugely appealing open-plan breakfasting kitchen/dining/living room features extensive windowing including full width bi-fold doors which open or closed provide a striking focal point as the subtle mixed colour slate floor extends from within to the elevated external sun terrace which overlooks the still larger sized gardens. The kitchen is fitted with very stylish high quality floor/wall cabinets, integrated appliances and a centrepiece breakfasting island whilst both the dining & living room areas are on an L-shape adjacent - this layout encouraging family gatherings or entertaining with friends. On the upper level, 2 further double bedrooms are provided (Nos 3 & 4) whilst a stylish central bathroom serves this level.
The specification includes both gas central heating and double glazing. EPC - D. Neatly presented private gardens are provided to the front & rear, the front easily maintained with a gated pathway to the side leading to the rear - the rear of larger size, mainly lawned with stone boundary walls, useful outbuildings provide valued external storage. The elevated sun terrace projects from the rear extension whilst a further paved patio area is situated to the side, adjacent to the side entrance/exit door.
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. Public transport includes bus & train. Prestwick Airport is nearby whilst the property is also convenient for access to the A77/A78. Of broad appeal, valued locally by family buyers in particular, together with couples & retired/semi-retired clients, whilst further afield of interest to 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.
Graeme Lumsden, BLACK HAY Estate Agency Director/Valuer comments... " Even after 36 Years in the estate agency industry I know that I am blessed to do the job that I do ...helping home sellers & buyers on their property journey through their lives.
The added bonus is also visiting/valuing & indeed selling all sorts of different styles/values of home ...including some very Special Homes which instantly catch my attention, indeed it can be hard not to imagine myself buying/living in a particular home.
The Dhorlin is one such home, a spectacular home, yet for me it's the magical combination of the subtle traditional exterior which conceals the spectacular contemporary interior, one which can accommodate couples or families and offers sought after flexibility ...one that you won't want to leave when you come home ...a Special Home that the successful purchaser should be over the moon to own! "
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 will be available to view exclusively on our blackhay.co.uk website.
September 5, 2022 11:00 am
Published by Paula Haworth
A rare opportunity… Enjoying secluded location within most admired yet easily missed Mansewell Road, a short walk from Prestwick’s sweeping seafront/promenade – “Anchor Cottage” is a charming 7 Main Apartment Character Home of Semi Detached Chalet Villa style, interestingly with a deceptive & most appealing cottage style exterior. Its attractive sandstone facade overlooks picturesque sloping lawned gardens which serve as the main front entrance, however the much valued (easily missed) private driveway to the rear is the regular entrance for the current owners as its expansive hardstanding parking area easily accommodates several vehicles whilst the detached garage provides secure parking/storage.
Internal viewing reveals a delightful home of immense character & charm, larger proportioned main apartments are featured complemented by eye-catching higher ceilings with fine decorative plasterwork detailing whilst the front facing apartments enjoy splendid mature garden views with elevated views from the upper apartments (bedrooms) including glimpses of Arran on the horizon.
Substantial traditional homes in Prestwick remain rare to the market and are particularly valued by family buyers and Glasgow based buyers seeking a change of lifestyle from city to seaside. Rarely available of this proportion Anchor Cottage is clearly a much loved & comfortable home for its current owners. The substantial apartments easily accommodating a growing family, or equally suited to those wishing more space in which to relax/entertain. The dual level accommodation layout offers flexibility – currently utilised as 3 Public/4 Bedrooms.
In particular, the accommodation on the ground floor comprises, welcoming reception hall with fabulous period spiral staircase wrapping around a substantial centre post (reputed to have been part of ship’s mast, although unconfirmed) displaying wonderful aged timber finish, an impressive formal bay windowed lounge, separate dining room with access from here onto a stylish/recently refitted “Galley Style” kitchen with integrated appliances and a semi-open utility area at the far end, a 3rd public room currently serves as a family/living room (alternative bedroom No 5, if required), bedroom No 1 is also located on the ground floor together with a charming period bathroom nestling under the staircase whilst a useful “Wet Room” is located just beyond the kitchen. Rising up the wonderful staircase, passing the half-level window alcove, one reaches the upper hallway which provides access to 3 bedrooms - the centre bedroom (No 3) of large single proportion, flanked either side by 2 spacious double bedrooms (Nos 2 & 4) – all the upper bedrooms enjoying wonderful elevated garden views and glimpses across adjacent homes to the horizon which features the partial outline of the Isle of Arran (on clear days).
Both gas central heating & double glazing are featured. EPC – D. The larger sized gardens to the front & rear are a valued additional feature of the property, well established providing privacy and welcome outdoor space in which to relax on the best of days – the front garden a picturesque foreground to the property whilst the rear generally tarmacadam to provide extensive private parking and ease of maintenance. An easily missed driveway to the rear/side leads a short distance to a private gated entrance onto the rear gardens/garage etc. A delightful “Summer House” has served as a private/comfortable “Hobby Room”, this offering flexibility of use. On-street parking is also available nearby.
Prestwick remains very popular with its thriving town centre and coastal location. With Glasgow approx’ 30 miles away Prestwick properties are particularly popular with Glasgow based buyers relocating (knowing the value of these style of homes in Glasgow!) …those commuting to Glasgow either by car (the A77 easily accessible from Prestwick) or by the popular train/bus service from Prestwick to Glasgow …and of course local buyers seeking a larger family proportioned home within easy walking distance of the seafront.
Graeme Lumsden, Director/Valuer of BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS comments… “ The new owner of Anchor Cottage will be blessed to own this very special home – one which features a wonderful staircase at its heart …character & charm, substantial apartments, a wonderful yet secluded location …just some of the reasons why this is a wonderful opportunity for the successful purchaser to become part of the history of Anchor Cottage. ”
To view, please telephone BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS direct 01292 283606 - blackhay.co.uk 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 direct 01292 283606 - blackhay.co.uk
May 28, 2019 10:52 am
Published by Paula Haworth
"GREENLEAS" - No 3 Ewenfield Gardens, Ayr – A superbly presented Detached Chalet Style Villa, discreetly positioned at cul de sac end, within highly regarded residential locale of mixed style quality homes.
Deceptive externally, this elegant home features well proportioned accommodation of 6 Main Apartments over 2 levels, available as 2 public, 4 bedrooms or as presently used – 3 public rooms & 3 bedrooms located on the main & upper levels respectively.
Internal viewing reveals a tastefully presented home which has been continually maintained by its present owners, complemented by a modern specification.
In particular the accommodation comprises on ground floor, most impressive reception hall with “downstairs” wc/cloakroom off, elegant formal lounge, striking dining room, stylish integrated kitchen with semi-open plan dining area adjacent & useful utility room off, family/tv room (or 4th bedroom if required). The staircase rises to the upper level from the reception hall, off which 3 bedrooms are located – the "master” bedroom suite being most appealing with stylish en-suite & dressing room off, 2 further bedrooms (both of spacious double proportion) and a most appealing family bathroom.
Gas central heating, double glazing and a security system are featured. EPC – D. A private gated monobloc driveway provides off-street parking. Colourful, well stocked gardens are featured to the rear/side offering much valued privacy.
In our view… an exceptional home, of a style seldom available within this most favoured locale. Private viewing available by contacting BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS on 01292 283606 (outwith normal office hours our 7 Day a week Call Centre is available on 0131 513 9477).
The "Virtual Tour" for "GREENLEAS" can be viewed here on our BLACK HAY Website, together with the Digital/PDF Brochure, Floorplan & Home Report. Should you wish to discuss this property further please contact Graeme Lumsden, our Estate Agency Director/Valuer on 01292 283606.
September 6, 2022 10:41 am
Published by Paula Haworth
A rare opportunity to acquire a Traditional Town Flat amidst Edinburgh’s highly desirable “Comely Bank”, with its charming cobbled streets harking back to times past. Occupying second floor within an attractive Blonde Sandstone Tenement building this desirable flat will be of broad appeal, conveniently located for access across Edinburgh.
The well proportioned accommodation comprises, reception hall, bay windowed lounge to the front with pleasing outlook, separate dining/kitchen to the rear, two bedrooms (to the front & rear respectively) whilst the bathroom is located off the reception hall. The property is neatly presented, although the successful purchaser will very likely choose to update to their own style/specification.
There is potential to develop/reconfigure the accommodation (at the new owners expense), subject to acquiring the neccessary planning permission/building warrant etc. The larger walk-in cupboard (which has been used as a small "internal" study) & adjacent hall cupboard offer the possibility of being altered/linked with the adjoining dining recess to form an additional room - perhaps an internal kitchen being formed to allow the existing kitchen to become a 3rd bedroom etc.
Gas central heating is featured. EPC – C. We are advised the property is self-factored. On-street parking is available within a controlled parking zone. There is a communal security door entry system. Communal gardens are located to the rear.
Edinburgh combines its rich history with a vibrant/bustling city featuring a vast array of shopping, bars, restaurants, fine dining, historic attractions, educational institutes together with an extensive public transport network …to name but a few. Residents and tourists actively enjoy city living or holiday visits alike, as befitting its status as Scotland’s Capital. Residential property continues to perform positively with Traditional Town Flats in demand and locations such as “Comely Bank” clearly desirable.
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.
October 22, 2020 10:46 am
Published by Paula Haworth
“Bay View”, Doonfoot – A superb opportunity to purchase a beautifully presented Modern Detached Luxury Villa, enjoying favourable corner plot within the desirable Greenan Views Residential Development situated on the outskirts of Ayr, itself on the South West Coast of Scotland.
This exceptional former Show Home was completed by renowned MacTaggart & Mickel, highly regarded for their building excellence/quality standards, with the balance of a 10 Year NHBC Guarantee available. The style/model is “The Tait”, one of a limited number of 8 Apartment Villas.
Internal viewing reveals a stylish home, complemented by quality fixtures/fittings, featuring well proportioned apartments over 2 levels which offer flexibility of use. On the ground floor, the entrance vestibule opens into a most welcoming reception hall with double height ceiling and staircase rising to “gallery” style upper hallway, a corner sited formal lounge with patio doors opening onto sheltered patio gardens, an open-plan style dining kitchen – the stylish heart of this particular home with most appealing/well equipped kitchen (noting a good sized separate utility room is also provided), a living/family room provides further living space with patio doors again opening onto the rear patio gardens, a “downstairs” wc/cloakroom is positioned off the reception hall.
The central staircase rises from the reception hall to the upper hallway which provides gallery style access to 5 bedrooms - 4 of these currently serving as bedrooms whilst the 5th presently serves as a good sized study/snug with twin door access. Bedroom Nos 1 & 2 feature stylish en-suites whilst bedroom Nos 3, 4 & 5 are served by a stylish family bathroom (with bath & double shower) off the hallway.
The specification includes both gas central heating and double glazing. Attic storage is available. The private gardens are neatly presented with an attractive array of shrubs etc whilst feature pebbles to the front/side gardens ease maintenance. The rear gardens are attractively presented, of sheltered courtyard style, inviting outdoor use when the weather permits. The private driveway provides off-street parking whilst also leading to a detached double garage with remote door access (noting that having been the sales office it is lined/features downlighting etc.).
In our view, quite simply… a Modern Luxury Home of immense appeal to those seeking a true Luxury Detached Villa able to accommodate an existing or growing family, or as with the current owners …a very comfortable home which a couple can choose to enjoy privately or welcome family/visitors. To discuss your interest in “Bay View” please contact Graeme Lumsden, our Director/Valuer, who is handling this particular sale – 01292 283606 or gpl@blackhay.co.uk Internal Viewing is invited by contacting BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS on 01292 283606 (outwith normal office hours/over this weekend you can telephone 07795 197 566 to arrange a private viewing appointment).
June 28, 2021 11:54 am
Published by Paula Haworth
* NEW to Market - Available to View Now *
An exceptionally rare opportunity… Tucked within most admired yet easily missed Mansewell Road, a short walk from Prestwick’s sweeping seafront/promenade – No 6 is a charming character home of Semi Detached Chalet Villa style, interestingly with a deceptive & most appealing cottage style exterior (formerly known as Anchor Cottage). Its attractive sandstone façade overlooks delightful sloping lawned gardens which serve as the main front entrance, noting there are also 2 side gated entrances and a valued private driveway/detached garage to the rear. Internal viewing reveals a home of immense character & charm, larger proportioned main apartments are featured complemented by eye-catching higher ceilings with fine decorative plasterwork detailing whilst the front facing apartments enjoy pleasing mature garden views and elevated views from the upper apartments (bedrooms) include glimpses of Arran on the horizon.
Substantial traditional homes in Prestwick remain rare to the market (Mansewell Road homes are even rarer to the market) and are particularly valued by family buyers and Glasgow based buyers seeking a change of lifestyle from city to seaside. Rarely available of this proportion, No 6 is clearly a much loved home serving its current owners for approx’ 50 years, the spacious apartments easily accommodating a growing family, or equally suited to those wishing more space in which to relax/entertain. The property has served its current owners as a comfortable family home with the opportunity for the successful purchaser to re-style to suit their own taste/budget. The twin level accommodation layout offers flexibility – currently utilised as 3 Public/4 Bedrooms however can easily revert to 2 Public/5 bedrooms.
In particular, the accommodation on the ground floor comprises, welcoming reception with fabulous period spiral staircase wrapping around a substantial centre post (reputed to have been part of ship’s mast, although unconfirmed) displaying wonderful aged timber finish, a most impressive formal bay windowed lounge, separate dining room with further public room currently serving as family room (alternative bedroom No 5), bedroom No 1, “Galley” style kitchen to the rear which is “dated” – this leading through the rear vestibule (door to garden) onto a most useful modern shower room/wc, the main bathroom which has also been re-fitted nestles discreetly under the main staircase. Rising up the wonderful staircase, passing the half-level window alcove, one reaches the upper hallway which provides access to 3 bedrooms - the centre bedroom (No 3) of large single proportion, flanked either side by 2 spacious double bedrooms (Nos 2 & 4) – all the upper bedrooms enjoying wonderful elevated garden views and glimpses across adjacent distant homes to the horizon which features the partial outline of the Isle of Arran (on clear days).
Both gas central heating & double glazing are featured. EPC – E. The good sized gardens to the front & rear are a valued additional feature of the property, well established providing privacy and welcome outdoor space in which to relax on the best of days – the front garden a picturesque foreground to the property whilst the rear combining an inviting patio area and natural lawn. There are 3 gated pedestrian entrances, 1 to the front & 2 to the side, a gated private driveway to the rear provides off-street parking whilst also leading to a detached garage with remote controlled door.
Prestwick is very popular with its thriving town centre and coastal location. With Glasgow approx’ 30 miles away Prestwick properties are particularly popular with Glasgow based buyers relocating (knowing the value of these style of homes in Glasgow!) …those commuting to Glasgow either by car (the A77 easily accessible from Prestwick) or by the popular train/bus service from Prestwick to Glasgow …and of course local buyers seeking a larger family proportioned home within easy walking distance of the seafront.
Graeme Lumsden, Director/Valuer of BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS comments…
“With 35 Years in the property industry I have never tired of valuing/marketing & selling homes. Every home is special in its own way to its owners …occasionally a particular home tugs at my own property heart making me wonder what it would be like to own/live in that particular home.
At the end of my visit, after gathering all the marketing information/photos etc… I closed the door of No 6 Mansewell Road, walked down the path, turned & paused …and thought, the new owner will indeed be blessed to own this very special home – one which features a wonderful staircase at its heart …circa 50 years of footsteps of its current owners up n’ down …and who knows how many years that staircase will enjoy the footsteps of its new owners.
We are merely custodians of the home that we own …however with special homes, you are lucky to form part of its history.”
To view, please telephone BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS direct 01292 283606 - blackhay.co.uk 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 direct 01292 283606 - blackhay.co.uk
December 15, 2024 9:41 am
Published by Paula Haworth
ReadingLasses is an almost magical Café/Bookshop (with its own Private Flat) …in the sense, that if you scribbled some notes on what your favourite café/bookshop would look & feel like, then as you walk into ReadingLasses you realise this is your favourite …as it just seems to fit around you like a familiar friend, cosy little corners to settle into, staff like Lauren gently appear and ask what you would like from Jacqui’s (The Owner) thoughtfully home-prepared menu …and all the time, those delightful Homemade Cakes beckon you over, sitting under their glass covers which muffle their almost vocal attempts to attract your attention, making them even more irresistible.
Why do I (Graeme Lumsden of BLACK HAY) seem to know ReadingLasses so well?...because I’m lucky enough to have been a regular visitor, living in Galloway over the last 15 years I re-discovered ReadingLasses not long after Jacqui bought it. Gradually over her years of ownership I have watched Jacqui thoughtfully & lovingly develop her business into the successful & indeed multi Award Winning business that it is today. For all its charm and delights this is a successful & profitable business that will appeal to the seasoned business owner or those who may dream of buying/owning a Café/Bookshop. In my view it is a charming business which rewards its owners in many ways (….and of course financially!) however it will also demand the attention & input of its new owner/s, as that has been the key to its success through Jacqui’s period of ownership.
Sometimes 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 small park with adjacent bowling green. The property is over 2 levels with an extended ground floor to the rear and large attached single storey timber outbuildings, 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” (featuring woman author books). 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 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 very presentable & refurbished existing outbuildings are split into 3 main areas, these developed by Jacqui to provide occasional venues however they clearly offer further potential (noting planning permission/use requirements for any changes 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 with feature stained/leaded display window, most appealing lounge with overlooking 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 majority of the income from the very popular Café whilst a smaller proportion is from book/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 events, however the existing owner has successfully developed the business with the emphasis on the Café which is undoubtedly the star attraction. 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 to the north east coast of Scotland (there may be an option for an informal short “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.
Serious enquiries only please – Contact Graeme Lumsden, Director/Valuer of BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS – 01292 283606.
May 13, 2021 1:00 pm
Published by Paula Haworth
* New to Market - Available to View Now * "CRAIGOWER", Prestwick. A rare opportunity to acquire a highly desirable larger proportioned Traditional Sandstone Semi Detached Villa enjoying a sought after "near seafront" location on Marina Road, literally moments walk from Prestwick's sweeping promenade/seafront. Substantial traditional homes of this style remain rare to the market and are particularly valued by family buyers and Glasgow based buyers seeking a change of lifestyle from city to seaside.
Rarely available of this proportion, "Craigower" retains considerable character with the spacious apartments throughout being of immense appeal, easily accommodating a growing family, or equally suited to those wishing more space in which to relax/entertain. The property has served its current owners as a comfortable family home and the opportunity exists for the successful purchaser to re-style to suit their own taste/budget with the 3 level accommodation layout offering flexibility - currently utilised as 3 Public/4 Bedrooms however can revert to 2 Public/5 Bedrooms (the room not pictured is used as a temporary home office/study).
The property stands neatly on Marina Road with its painted stone front, pebbled gardens and driveway which leads to an attached angular garage (noting its angular shape will limit vehicle use however its "tandem" style offers superb extended storage). To the rear, twin paved patio areas sit adjacent to an enclosed lawned garden in which to relax or let children play securely. The sweeping seafront being literally 1 minute's walk encourages one to explore/enjoy the magical attraction of Prestwick's beach/seafront. Partial seascape views can be enjoyed from the bay windowed upper "master" bedroom (No 1), across adjacent residence, with glimpses of the Isle of Arran on the horizon.
In particular the accommodation comprises, on ground floor, most welcoming character reception hall (cloakroom off), formal bay windowed lounge, separate dining/family room, breakfasting kitchen with open utility area and short hallway to rear door (useful wc off), a 3rd public room nestles between the lounge & dining/family rooms - offering flexibility of use. A fine period bannister staircase rises from the reception hall, passing the half-level landing which features a stylish modern main bathroom & spacious bedroom No 4 (presently undecorated awaiting decorator). Moving on to the upper hallway, 3 bedrooms are featured including the "master" bedroom with its elevated bay window views, noting that bedroom No 3 has a useful corner shower cubicle and vanity/wash-hand basin allowing semi en-suite style use. Excellent attic storage is provided. Both gas central heating & double glazing are featured. EPC - E. On-street parking is also available.
Prestwick is very popular with its thriving town centre and coastal location. With Glasgow approx' 30 miles away Prestwick properties are particularly popular with Glasgow based buyers relocating (knowing the value of these style of homes in Glasgow!) ...those commuting to Glasgow either by car (the A77 easily accessible from Prestwick) or by the popular train/bus service from Prestwick to Glasgow ...and of course local buyers seeking to move nearer to the seafront & requiring a larger family proportioned home.
Graeme Lumsden, Director/Valuer of BLACK HAY Estate Agents comments...
" With 35 years working in the property industry across Scotland, that iconic phrase location, location & location remains one of the key desirability factors. In addition, post-lockdown has delivered a notable increase in buyers seeking a more relaxed style of living, work/life balance and who value highly the magic ingredient of a near-seafront location.
Craigower ticks so many boxes for a wide variety of buyers - its desirable location with partial sea view, plus ...substantial accommodation, private parking, character/charm, being located in Prestwick which is undoubtedly a sought after & thriving coastal town.
If you are reading this and want to buy/live in Prestwick then you probably already appreciate everything Craigower has to offer ...and no doubt you also appreciate this is indeed a wonderful opportunity. The successful buyer will surely enjoy celebrating when they collect their keys on removal day ...when their dream becomes reality."
To view, please telephone BLACK HAY ESTATE AGENTS direct on - blackhay.co.uk The Home Report will be available to view 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 35 years in the property industry) blackhay.co.uk