Guests say
Guests appreciate the historic charm and beautiful setting of East Lodge, with its proximity to Crathes Castle and estate grounds offering delightful walks. The location is ideal for exploring Deeside and enjoying the tranquillity of the area. While some guests mention issues with heating and maintenance, the overall experience is enhanced by the property's cleanliness and the improvements noted by returning visitors.
The property is generally described as clean, with guests noting it was very clean upon arrival. There are no significant complaints about cleanliness, indicating a high standard is maintained.
The location is highly praised for its beauty, proximity to Crathes Castle, and the abundance of walks available on the estate. Its suitability for accessing Aberdeen and the Cairngorms National Park is also appreciated.
Comfort receives mixed reviews. While some guests find the lodge cosy and the beds comfortable, others mention small beds and draughty rooms. The presence of a historic charm adds to the comfort for some.
Facilities and maintenance issues are a common theme, with guests suggesting improvements to heating, shower facilities, and general upkeep. However, the well-equipped kitchen and the inclusion of a washing machine are positive aspects.
There is insufficient information to score thoughtfulness accurately. While some guests mention a lack of welcoming touches such as a note or shortbread, these are not consistent across reviews, and it is not clear if gifts are a standard offering.
About this property
Banchory 3.6 miles. East Lodge - Crathes Castle, a delightful ground-floor cottage found in the Crathes Castle estate part of the National Trust for Scotland. This is a superb base for exploring with family, friends and four-legged companions. The extensive castle grounds give multiple options for walking and there are excellent play areas too. The property is only a short drive from Banchory with restaurants, pubs, supermarkets, golf courses, walks beside the River Dee and a range of shops. The kitchen is slick and well appointed. The lounge/ dining area is a beautiful space to eat and relax in. There are two bedrooms, a double and a twin, which are comfortable, bright, tastefully decorated and have plenty of storage. If you fancy eating outside there is a picnic table for you to dine al fresco style. Spend a relaxing afternoon strolling around the Crathes Castle estate; dating back to 1323 when King Robert the Bruce yielded the lands of Leys to the Burnett family, there’s plenty of history to discover while meandering through the impressive gardens, home to yew hedges which were planted in 1702, and finding a unique range of wildlife around the 240 hectare estate via six marked trails, spotting buzzards, bats, roe deer and herons along the way. See the wonder of Crathes Castle from its interior, with this extravagant property home to intricate mazes, tall towers, ancient turrets and antique paintings, being sure to watch out for the trip steps, made to confuse running attackers! Thrill seekers will adore this corner of Scotland, where you can spend a day swinging through high ropes courses at Go Ape Aberdeen, found within the castle grounds, or take the little ones to the fun-filled Wild Wood Adventure Play. Other attractions in the area range from steam train rides next to the River Dee at the Royal Deeside Railway, to coastal resorts found further afield at Cove Bay, Portlethen and Stonehaven. Travel over to the city of Aberdeen for a vibrant day of cosmopolitan wonders, discovering the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, an Aberdeen Ghost Walk, plus vibrant bars and shopping experiences. Further afield you can find the spectacular Craigievar Castle, where you can find a wealth of history, armour and art immersed in the castle said to be the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Cinderella, while Leith Hall, Haddo House and Pitmedden Garden also lie just a short drive away. Create lasting memories at East Lodge - Crathes Castle.
Banchory is a quaint town nestled within Aberdeenshire with the River Dee flowing through, home to a plethora of shops, pubs, restaurants, a golf course, fishing at the river as well as famous attractions such as the Crathes Castle and the bustling city of Aberdeen. Other destinations nearby include the coastal resorts of Cove Bay, Portlethen and Stonehaven.
Accommodation
All ground floor.
Two bedrooms: 1 x double, 1 x twin.
Shower room with walk-in shower, basin and WC.
Kitchen.
Living/dining room
Electric heating.
Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge, washing machine, dishwasher and freezer.
TV.
WiFi.
Fuel and power included in rent.
Bed linen and towels included in rent.
Off-road parking for 2 cars.
Enclosed garden with picnic table.
Two well-behaved pets welcome.
Sorry, no smoking.
Shop 2.5 miles, pub 2.7 miles.
Holiday guests have access to the estate grounds outside of the regular opening hours.
Access is via the front door which has a step, also at the rear door to the property.
The charging of electric vehicles is not permitted.
The opening times, visitor facilities and entry prices of all National Trust for Scotland properties and attractions can be viewed on their website http://www.nts.org.uk"
Reviews (37)
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Neil
Location is everything and with a 5 year old Wowzer who loves woodland walks we were in heaven. Beds comfy and firm, Wi-Fi excellent heating great. Kitchen will be upgraded soon .. not sure why as it was lovely. A Smart TV would have tipped 5 * instead of 4*
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Alastair
Only 2 nights. The entry instructions could usefully state that the key in the key safe is for the BACK door. The flush mechanism on the toilet needs attention. It keeps filling for ever and needs a sharp press after filling to make it stop.
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Jordan
I cannot recommend the lodge highly enough! The instructions got use and clean up are clear, the lodge is accessible, and it is very family friendly. There are also lovely walks you can take right outside the door. Loved this place and can't wait to return!