Grovewood House

The garden at Grovewood House is beautiful, with a picturesque stream and a hot tub tucked among the trees and foliage, giving it a private, peaceful feel. The area makes a lovely escape from city bustle. The beach and local pub are about a 20-minute walk away, and Dumfries is just over 20 minutes by car. Wi-Fi and network signal were both excellent. Breakfast kept us going for a full day out. There were fried eggs, grilled tomato, potato cake, haggis, square sausage (also known as Lorne sausage), beans, bacon, traditional sausage and toast with real butter, plus tea, coffee, orange or apple juice. Cereals, fruit and jams were available too. We ate like kings and enjoyed the company of Robbie the robot, see pictures. Our room, the Criffel View Room, was stunning, with an extra large double bed, a single bed, plenty of drawers and a wardrobe, and a lovely en suite with an elegant slipper bath. The bed was one of the most comfortable I’ve slept in away from home, and we both slept soundly on both nights. We arrived much later than planned on the first night because of work commitments and unexpected delays. Ian and Dawn were gracious and accommodating when we called to explain, and kindly stayed up until we got there. Ian even offered to cook us something when he found out we hadn’t eaten. The next day, a friend asked Ian and Dawn to pass on a birthday message and a bottle of fizz. When we got back to the room, there was a gorgeous wicker basket with champagne glasses, a bottle of moet and chandon, flowers, shortbread and blueberry white tea, from our friend and our lovely hosts. It was a touching gesture and much appreciated. Saying Dawn and Ian go above and beyond for guests is putting it mildly. We came home yesterday after this surprise two-night birthday stay. Grovewood House is the best B&B we’ve ever stayed in, and we had an amazing time. We hope to be back soon, and I can’t recommend this gem enough. Thank you so much for having us, Dawn and Ian!

The house is absolutely gorgeous, and Kirkbean is lovely. The owners are a really attentive, lovely couple, and the food is delicious. We’ll definitely be back. Elise &Jay xxx

We spent our first two days in Scotland with Dawn and Ian, and had an outstanding stay. The house, garden and food were gorgeous, and the nearby beaches are outstanding too. I’ve never met more gracious hosts. The place is full of lovely, eclectic decor and collector pieces, including a special item Ian handmade for the dining room. You’ll have to visit to see it. Dawn and Ian also gave Sam a little gift and Alli and me a personal keepsake from our stay. Small businesses rock. Ditch the chains, keep it local. Debra, Alli and Sam xxx

The setting and garden are beautiful, and the surrounding area is gorgeous. The hosts were really friendly and accommodating. Highly recommended.