Three of the best homes for sale in Scotland with outdoor space

Spring has sprung and outdoor spaces are calling – from rural retreats to city townhouses, says Kirsty McLuckie

Now that the sun has shown its face, however temporarily, a house hunter’s fancy might turn to thoughts of getting outdoors.

Whether you are looking for a city home, some outside space within commutable distance from work or a complete rural retreat, there is plenty on offer.

Picture: Strutt and Parker

Achnaha is a stunning small coastal estate in Argyll with 85 acres to roam around in. It has a delightful main house, sea frontage and breathtaking views.

It also has excellent development potential. On one plot in particular, at the southern end of land fringing the coast, there is potential to build a second significant country house in an outstanding position.

The owners have made an application for outline planning permission.

Picture: Strutt and Parker

Achnaha House, finished in 2016, is a four-bedroomed home with energy- efficient features including underfloor heating and an air source heat pump. It has a two-bedroomed annexe too.

Picture: Strutt and Parker

The house is set in four acres of gardens, with an embryonic orchard and a burn which runs into a pretty lochan below the house. The area is a haven for wildlife.

The coastal land and plot are available as a separate lot. It extends to almost 76 acres and includes half a mile of rocky foreshore and beaches.

Picture: Strutt and Parker

The remains of a former boathouse, in a sheltered spot towards the north end of the shore, offer the prospect of restoration to its original use or further development.

An early 19th-century three-bedroomed house is also included in the sale. It is in need of extensive renovation but has further excellent development potential.

Picture: Strutt and Parker

Malcolm Leslie, partner in Strutt & Parker’s Edinburgh office, said: “Achnaha is a unique, small residential estate, which occupies an enviable coastal location on the west side of the Kintyre peninsula.

“It benefits from an idyllic setting and magnificent views which encompass the islands of Cara, Gigha, Islay and Jura, with Mull in the background.

Picture: Strutt and Parker

"It has all the elements of a wonderful lifestyle property: letting income opportunities, development potential, grazing for livestock, amenity woodland and nearly half a mile of beaches and rocky coastline.”

If that sounds like too much work, Glen Cottage, Penicuik, is a peaceful retreat.

Picture: Savills

Available on the market for the first time since it was built, the cottage is a truly unique property.

Built in 1860 for the reservoir manager, it is a charming three-bedroomed detached house with spectacular, undisturbed views over the reservoir.

Picture: Savills

Level with the reservoir, the main part of the property overlooks the water to an island and the hills beyond, while the basement area looks out onto the overflow from the reservoir which runs into Glencorse Burn.

Picture: Savills

The garden at the front of the property is a mixture of mature trees, hedges and shrubs, and landscaped lawn with flower beds. Four mature lime trees feature and well-established climbing roses on the façade of the house.

Picture: Savills

A grassy sloped pathway leads down to the basement floor, with a paved area in front ideal for al fresco dining, overlooking the run-off water from the reservoir.

Picture: Murray Beith Murray

A good city garden is a wonderful thing. 18 Warriston Crescent is a beautifully laid out townhouse with five bedrooms and a superb landscaped private garden to be the envy of the neighbours on a sunny day.

At a glance

Picture: Strutt and Parker

Where is it: Achnaha, Glenbarr, Tarbert, Argyll.What is it: A small residential estate with a five-bedroomed main house, 85 acres of land and plenty of development potential.Good points: The existing house is impressive and makes the most of the stunning views over the surrounding islands. Half a mile of beach and rocky coastline should keep the family entertained all year round and there is plenty of room for multi-generational living.Bad points: There is so much potential in the property, through developing existing buildings or constructing new houses, that it requires energy and vision.Price: Offers over £460,000.Contact: Strutt & Parker on 0131 718 4488.

Picture: Savills

Where is it: Glen Cottage, Penicuik, Midlothian.What is it: A three-bedroomed period cottage in a peaceful setting at the side of a reservoir.Good points: It is very picturesque and peaceful and there is plenty of potential to convert outbuildings and the basement. The garden is sheltered and very pretty.Bad points: It is likely to attract a lot of attention because it is unique.Price: Offers over £380,000.Contact: Savills on 0131 247 3700.

Picture: Murray Beith Murray

Where is it: 18 Warriston Crescent, Edinburgh.What is it: A five-bedroomed townhouse with three reception rooms over three floors.Good points: The garden is a lovely outdoor space, landscaped with mature trees and shrubs and a lawn and sheltered by a wall. The house is immaculate with beautiful period features.Bad points: The price reflects the popularity of the area, but is less expensive than a similar property in the New Town.Price: Offers over £995,000.Contact: Murray Beith Murray on 0131 341 2845.