Dumfries House
Dumfries House and its estate is a popular visitor attraction, just outside the town of Cumnock in Ayrshire and only 30 minutes’ drive from Newark Farm.
In the Palladian style, Dumfries House is a stately home that was built in the 1750s for William Dalrymple, the 5th Earl of Dumfries by John and Robert Adam. The Earl furnished the house with work by some of the finest designers of the time, including a large collection of pieces by Thomas Chippendale. Late 19th century extensions to the house were made for the 3rd Marquess of Bute by the Scottish architect Robert Weir Shultz.
After the death of Lady Eileen, Dowager Marchioness of Bute in 1993, the house ceased to be a family home and was eventually put up for sale by the 7th Marquess of Bute. To preserve the house and its valuable collections for the nation, a consortium including heritage charities and led by the then Prince of Wales, now King Charles III, purchased the house. Support included a loan from his charitable trust and funding from the Scottish Government.
Now part of the King’s Foundation, the house and grounds are open to the public and offer a wide variety of outdoor and indoor attractions. These range from a walled garden, arboretum, maze, adventure playground and estate walks, though to a health and wellbeing centre, visitor centre & shop, and the main attraction, Dumfries House itself.
Useful information about Dumfries House
Location
Dumfries House estate is accessed directly from the A70, approximately 1.2 miles west of the roundabout junction of the A70 and A76 just outside Cumnock, East Ayrshire. It is about 30 minutes’ drive on the A76 and A70 from us here at Newark Farm.
Accessibility
Certain areas of Dumfries House are accessible via stair climber and stair lift, but it would be advisable to call ahead if concerned prior to booking. Limited blue badge parking is available.
Events
Dumfries House hosts the annual Boswell Book Festival, which focuses on works of biography and memoir. A host of writers and personalities have spoken at the festival, and it continues to attract famous names each year.
The house and estate also stage several other events and educational visits as well as a Sunday Market on the third Sunday of each month.
Facilities & Tickets
The estate offers a café, visitor centre and shop, and there is ample free parking. Estate maps are available at the visitor centre. The Coach House café on the estate serves hot and cold refreshments and light meals. The Woodlands restaurant offers more substantial fare but at the time of writing, May 2025 is temporarily closed.
Dumfries House is open daily during spring-autumn, and on limited dates during winter weekends. There is no charge for entry to the grounds, which are open dawn-dusk all year. Visits to the house require the purchase of a ticket for a guided tour. While tickets may be available on the day, it is advised to book ahead to ensure a place.
Official website
For more information, including current prices and opening times, visit the Dumfries House Official website.
