Gate Lodge, West Lothian

Set within the grounds at the entrance of the esteemed 17th-century National Trust for Scotland, House of the Binns estate, on the outskirts of Linlithgow, West Lothian, is this beautiful single-storey cottage, Gate Lodge. Enjoying a superb and historic setting within close proximity to the River Forth with views over the landscaped parklands, Gate Lodge offers an opulent interior adorned with contemporary artwork and artifacts, a truly unique dog-friendly dwelling for couples and friends, plus two canine companions. Treat your loved one to tasty home-cooked meals, whipped up in the well-equipped kitchen which has all the appliances you could need for a memorable self-catered stay. Settle down at the dining table to savour a delicious meal over a celebratory bottle of fizz, as you toast to a fantastic getaway and listen to your favourite songs play out on the record player. After dinner, why not catch the last of the day’s rays out in the large rear enclosed garden, where your four-legged friends can play and stretch their legs? Retire to the sitting room, where you can relax on the plush seating and select a much-loved film from the TV as the evening’s entertainment. Wash away the day with a refreshing shower, before catching your rest in the sumptuous king-size bed ahead of another adventure filled day. Take advantage of your superb location with a walk around the extensive parkland which surrounds your holiday home, where you may spot the resident sheep, cattle and peafowl. Continue through the woodlands to the Binns Tower, where you can soak up the breath-taking panoramic views of Central Scotland on offer. The House of the Binns is open for pre-booked tours from Thursday to Monday. This fascinating laird's house near Linlithgow has been the home of the Dalyells for over 400 years. The present house was built in 1612 by Thomas Dalyell, an Edinburgh merchant who made his fortune at the court of King James VI and I in London. If you can tear yourself away, drive over to the small village of Blackness, where you can enjoy leisurely strolls around the picturesque harbour, visit the 15th-century Blackness Castle which overlooks the River Forth, followed by sampling fresh seafood at The Lobster Pot or visit Champneys and the Fat Pheasant which are within a few miles of the property. Continue on to Linlithgow, where you can delve into history at the Linlithgow Museum, kayak, canoe or fish in Linlithgow Loch, or test out your clubs at the excellent Linlithgow Golf Club. If you’re seeking out further National Trust for Scotland properties, be sure to check out the lovingly restored 17th-century Culross Palace in Culross, with its tiny rooms, connecting passageways and painted ceilings - step into the past along the cobbled streets of this picturesque village once full of the hustle and bustle of a thriving 17th-century port on the River Forth. A visit to Bannockburn is highly recommended where you can stand shoulder to shoulder with Robert the Bruce on the site of his greatest victory. If you are visiting Scotland’s capital city be sure to drop by the Georgian House a magnificently restored Edinburgh New Town house with fine collections of paintings, costumes and period furnishings, and Gladstones Land one of the oldest buildings on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, home to an ice cream parlour and coffee shop, inspired by the rich trading history of the building. Further along the coast stands the 17th-century Palladian mansion of Newhailes Estate, Musselburgh with rococo interior and grounds offering woodland walks and an adventure play area. Experience Scotland’s rich history first-hand with a memorable stay at Gate Lodge.