Historic 2000 acre Estate in rural Ayrshire near Troon and Prestwick .

Historic 2000 acre Estate in rural Ayrshire near Troon and Prestwick .

Historic 2000 acre Estate in rural Ayrshire near Troon and Prestwick .

Historic 2000 acre Estate in rural Ayrshire near Troon and Prestwick .

Historic 2000 acre Estate in rural Ayrshire near Troon and Prestwick .

Historic 2000 acre Estate in rural Ayrshire near Troon and Prestwick .

Historic 2000 acre Estate in rural Ayrshire near Troon and Prestwick .

Historic 2000 acre Estate in rural Ayrshire near Troon and Prestwick .

Historic 2000 acre Estate in rural Ayrshire near Troon and Prestwick .

Historic 2000 acre Estate in rural Ayrshire near Troon and Prestwick .

£2843
10 Guests
10 Bedrooms
10 Bathrooms
Wi-Fi

At a glance

Historic 2000 acre Estate in rural Ayrshire near Troon and Prestwick .Dating back over 500 years to the Wallace family new additions were added in 1843 and today the interiors are elegantly appointed with generations of antiques and artwork. Carnell is a welcoming family home bookable for exclusive use; the spacious reception rooms comfortably accommodate up to 20 guests in the main part with a further 6 guests in the newly converted East Tower (by separate booking).The main part of Carnell offers 10 bedrooms for guests. All have modern bathrooms and the rooms are equipped with large king or twin beds fine linens and duvets. The newly converted East Tower provides a fully self-contained suite with a king bedroom sitting room bathroom kitchen with dining area. A further 2 bedrooms with bathrooms are on the floor above. The East Wing is available as a separate booking but will not be offered to other guests if you are booking Carnell.There are 2000 acres of gardens parkland and farms surrounding Carnell for guests to enjoy. There is a hard tennis court fishing on both the pond and the river as well as croquet and outdoor table tennis. There is a gym with an infrared sauna and indoor table tennis. Pheasant partridge and duck shooting is available in season from 01 October to 31 January. It is also possible to go stalking subject to the various seasonal restrictions. Outside of these dates we can also offer clay-pigeon shooting as well as trout and salmon fishing on the River Ayr.A full household staff looks after you and your party from time of enquiry to your departure. The team aim for a friendly but unobtrusive style of service allowing you to enjoy your house party to the full. For this service we charge a Daily Guest Fee per person which is dependent on the number of guests & requirements but as a guide starts at £165 plus VAT per person per day based on a minimum of 16 guests in 2025. This fee is in addition to the rental fee. This fee includes twice daily housekeeping and all meals and drinks with up to one bottle of wine or equivalent per day. We agree menus with you before you arrive. These are usually based on traditional British dishes using fresh seasonal and local ingredients. Our excellent Chef can also cater to most dietary requirements. For those parties celebrating special occasions we can organise music dancing photography flowers etc..The dining room comfortably accommodates 26 guests. There is also a large outdoor dining area by the croquet lawn which can be tented and accommodates up to 40 guests. There is further dining on the Tower Terrace for smaller numbers and the John Knox Room can also be used for up to 12 guests. If you are planning a small wedding party dining can be extended to 40 guests subject to additional charges in the main dining room.A few people do ask about self-catering but the size of the house doesn't lend itself to this.Whilst the house is set in rolling countryside the nearby towns of Troon Prestwick Ayr and Kilmarnock are within a short drive and offer a choice of large shops cinemas and theatres.Glasgow is 30 minutes drive with an international airport and excellent rail links throughout Scotland and to England. Glasgow Prestwick Airport is 15 minutes drive and has flights from Europe and has an FBO for private jets. Edinburgh Airport is 75 minutes drive. Transfers can be arranged.Some of the world's top golf courses are within an easy drive including Royal Troon Prestwick Trump Turnberry Western Gailles and Dundonald.Local places of interest include Dumfries House Culzean Castle which are both open to the public.Edinburgh & Loch Lomond are approximately 75 minutes drive.

Features

CategoryDetails
Essentials
  • Wireless internet
  • Free wifi
  • Wifi speed: 500+ Mbps (good for 6+ people or 10+ devices)
  • Internet
    Wifi throughout the house
  • Printer
  • Towels provided
    TOGETHER WITH BATHROBES AND SLIPPERS
  • Linens provided
    Beds are prepared with fine cotton linen down duvets and pillows
  • Air conditioning
    Open the window for some fresh Scottish Air.
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Toilet paper
  • Paper towels
  • Basic soaps
  • Telephone
  • Heating
    Biomass Boiler
  • Fireplace
    There are wood-burning fireplaces in the hall drawing room sitting room main dining room and a log-burning stove in the John knox dining room. Outside by the John Knox Terrace we have a fire pit.
  • Wood stove
    All reception rooms have a log burner or open fireplace.
  • Fitness room / equipment
    Powerplate rowing machine weights infra-red sauna yoga mats
  • Desk chair
Kitchen
  • Kitchen
    Whilst the house is fully staffed the kitchen is also welcoming so please feel free to come and see the Chef.
  • Refrigerator
    Large catering size. A small fridge can be placed in a bedroom if required for medicinal purposes.
  • Dishwasher
    Three!
  • Microwave
  • Stove
    An AGA
  • Oven
    This is a serviced house. We do have an AGA separate oven and hob and a microwave.
  • Grill
  • Kitchen island
  • Dishes & utensils
  • Dining table
  • Coffee maker
  • Coffee grinder
  • Kettle
  • Blender
  • Ice maker
  • Toaster
    On the sideboard to help yourself
  • Lobster pot
Outside
  • Fire pit
    There are several fire pits in the grounds
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Beach towels
  • Bicycles
    Please ask about hiring
  • Golf
    Many top local courses within a short drive of the estate including troon Prestwick Western Gailles Dundonald Turnberry etc .
  • Tennis
    Hard tennis court.
Entertainment
  • Games
    Table tennis croquet tennis court
  • Books
    Dating back to the 16th century in the Archive Room
  • Television
    Only in our sitting room
  • Satellite / cable
    SKY TV
  • Video games
    X Box
  • DVD player
    Available on request
  • Video library
  • Stereo
    BOSE sound systems/Alexa to main reception rooms. All bedrooms have bluetooth radios.
  • Music library
    We have BOSE speakers as well as Alexas in most of the reception rooms
  • Game room
  • Pool table
    Full size Snooker Table
  • Ping pong table
  • Foosball
Baby & toddler
  • Travel cot
  • Child's highchair
  • Games for kids
  • Toys
  • Baby gate
  • Books for kids
Laundry
  • Washing machine
    Provided by housekeeping
  • Clothes dryer
    Our housekeepers provide laundry service at an additional cost. Please ask for more information.
  • Iron & board
Parking
  • Parking
    Ample parking to the rear of the house.
Safety
  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Deadbolt lock
  • Fire extinguisher
  • First aid kit
  • Exterior lighting
  • Safe
  • Fire station contact
    999
  • Hospital contact
    999
  • Police contact
    999
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible
    There is a lift to the 1st floor bedrooms. All doorways are wide and easily accessible by wheelchair. A ramp will be needed at the front door with 2 steps.
  • Lift
Location type
  • Rural
    The house is surrounded by gardens and parkland and very private.
Nearby activities
  • Museums
  • Swimming
  • Boating
  • Ice skating
  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Mountain biking
  • Horseback riding
  • Health/beauty spa
  • Shopping
  • Outlet shopping
  • Antiquing
  • Golf privileges optional
  • Birdwatching
  • Fishing
  • Marina
  • Hunting
Breakfast
  • Booking possible
Suitability
  • Long-term renters welcome
  • Minimum age limit for renters

Reviews

RatingReviewUserPublished DateLikedDislikedTitleDescriptionStayResponseResponse By
10/10ExcellentJoe L.2 Jan 2024Liked: Cleanliness check-in communication location listing accuracyNoneThe most amazing place!What an absolutely fabulous place. Adrienne and her wonderful hardworking team could not do enough for our party of 18. From the entire booking process/communication with Adrienne that involved extensive dietary requirements plus the organisation of activities including clay pigeon shooting archery and air rifling professional whisky tasting arranging a piper and having an official Robbie Burns address to the haggis superbly undertaken by Barney. There was wonderful food constantly provided by our superb chef all served by friendly and attentive staff and there was never anything that was too much trouble the level of service was such that they were always there for us but kept a quiet distance so we felt super comfortable. All bedrooms and en-suites were fabulous the dining room magnificent and the beautiful hallway and drawing rooms with their fabulous fireplaces. A special thank you to MJ who was a star at getting red wine out of shirts jumpers and carpets and for being so patient with us. Thank you all SO much for such a wonderful experience over Hogmanay we will never forget it the Loader/Davey/Sullivan familyStayed 5 nights in Dec 2023Response from VrboOwner on 9 Jan 2024Dear Joe
Firstly many thanks for taking the time to write a review. Thank you too for your kind and glowing words about your visit.

The Chef and our fantastic little team will be thrilled with your generous words. I have already passed on your email message to everyone including Jay at Cowans Law and David for his whisky tasting.

I think we all had some trepidation about getting all the dietaries right; our knowledge of vegan substitutes is now unbounding and only hope those omnivores in the party didn't feel ignored at times especially as we're so usually heavy on Jersey dairy and much else.

All the team loved having you all here. Your party was so thoughtful to our team and as MJ said a couple of days ago didn't we have a fun New Year. It really was and down to you and your friends and family.

We hope it won't be the last time and thank you for choosing us.
Very best wishes
Adrienne
10/10ExcellentDan M.9 Oct 2024Liked: Cleanliness check-in communication location listing accuracyNoneAn Unforgettable Stay at Carnell EstatesWe had the absolute pleasure of staying at Carnell Estates and it was an exceptional experience for my family and close friends. The property itself is breathtaking with its stunning grounds and beautifully maintained historic charm. From the moment we arrived we felt like we were being welcomed into a warm and inviting home.

Adrienne and Mickey were amazing hosts going above and beyond to make our stay special. Their entire staff was delightful seeing to every need of our large group with ease and professionalism. One of the highlights was a traditional haggis ceremony arranged by Adrienne complete with a piper and a Robert Burns poet—such a unique and memorable touch! She also arranged a Scottish folk band with dance instruction which brought so much fun and joy to our evening.

The care and attention to detail at Carnell Estates made our time there truly unforgettable. We can't wait to return for another visit!
Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2024Response from VrboOwner on 16 Oct 2024Dear Dan

Great thanks for taking time to write such a lovely and very kind review. It was a real pleasure to welcome you and Ann to Carnell with your friends and family. The two weeks seemed to fly by as everyone was so thoughtful friendly and relaxed.

We do hope you left Scotland with many wonderful memories that will last a lifetime especially so for your daughter and new son in law.

I will pass on your fantastic review to all the team who will be absolutely delighted as we are.

We look forward to welcoming you back on future Scottish jaunts.

Sending you our very best wishes
Adrienne
10/10ExcellentMiles H.18 Aug 2024Liked: Cleanliness check-in communication location listing accuracyNoneWonderfulIt’s hard to put into words how amazing this stay was. The home is historic and beautiful the grounds are gorgeous and the people were kind and attentive. Way beyond a five star stay. Lifetime experience. ThanksStayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
10/10ExcellentSarah T.12 Aug 2024Liked: Cleanliness check-in communication location listing accuracyNoneMagical StayEverything was perfect - what a treat to stay here!Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
10/10ExcellentThomas K. Belmont18 Aug 2023Liked: Cleanliness check-in communication location listing accuracyNoneOnce in a lifetime tripWhere to begin? We had booked the Carnell Estate property for a family reunion 6 months previously with lofty expectations. Adrienne and Micky our hosts made sure that all our expectations were exceeded!. It was spectacular; the surroundings the manor the food the staff and fortunately the weather. Our family re-connected in exactly the way I had hoped. It was truly a memorable trip and we are incredibly grateful to have had this experience.Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023Response from VrboOwner on 31 Aug 2023Dear Tom
Your review has appeared and we are endlessly grateful for your kind words. It was an important birthday for both you and Daniel and so pleased to see both East and West Coast 'boys' chose to celebrate in Scotland. Happy too for the younger generation to celebrate Sam's 30th here too.

We do hope you'll be back at some point to explore more of Scotland with Rachael or as a family again and do know you'll be most welcome to stay.

Wishing you all the very best
Adrienne and Micky
10/10Excellentsharon b.2 Jul 2023Liked: Cleanliness check-in communication location listing accuracyNoneI don’t want to go homeWe are just leaving beautiful Carnell… 10 friends spent a week and every minute was heaven!
Adrienne and her staff make you feel at home in this incredible estate. We have never had a chef that prepared such delicious meals… Even haggis! You will love it here… So sad to leave.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023Response from VrboOwner on 31 Aug 2023Dear Sharon

Huge thanks for your very kind review which all our team are thrilled to read. It was a great pleasure to welcome you and David and your lovely friends. Your fun and kindness were greatly appreciated by everyone and we were pleased you managed to devour so many Ayrshire golf courses in just a week. Pleased too that we have 10 more haggis converts....we hope we will see you again.

Our very best wishes
Adrienne
10/10ExcellentSean T.17 Apr 2023Liked: Cleanliness check-in communication location listing accuracyNoneAmazing Stay!!!Carnell exceeded all expectations! The estate was wonderful the staff was exemplary The food was incredible. Adrienne was so helpful we couldn't have done it without her.Stayed 15 nights in Mar 2023Response from VrboOwner on 31 Aug 2023Hi Sean and Kasey Thank you for your very kind review. We are thrilled you enjoyed your visit to Scotland and Carnell. Please pass on our best wishes to all your family.

Kindest
Adrienne
10/10Excellentkeith c.10 Sept 2022Liked: Cleanliness check-in communication location listing accuracyNoneA most exqisite experienceThe estate and the mansion/castle are everything advertised...incredibly comfortable luxurious and historic and more. However we were really overwhelmed with the service the staff and the proprietors. They went above and beyond every day with gourmet food flexibility when our plans or the weather shifted. Just when we thought we had experienced the best Four Seasons' level of service we were positively surprised again. Thank you Adrienne Mickey Lewis Lorna and the rest of the staff! We will be back!Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022Response from VrboOwner on 31 Aug 2023Dear Christina and Keith thank you for your very kind review. We dearly enjoyed welcoming you and your friends and absolutely loved being a part of your very special celebrations. It's down to you both that you managed to meld a very wonderful time of golf sightseeing boating history and celebrations in to an all too short week.

Thank you for the mentions for our team. They will be delighted. We have a stellar back of house who keep us all on course including Jacky in the laundry Vince in maintenance Bobby in the gardens and Hugh in the grounds. Lori and Calum are stalwarts keeping prey at bay for the estate and Jimmy up on the farm. Grand family we're not so we'll take the Four Seasons analogy any day.... you are most generous and we hope to see you long long before the next 10 years. In fact if you're back in Scotland and don't visit we'll be very sad.

With warmest wishes from Burdundy...we're looking at future seasons and hope you enjoyed our choices.

Very best
Adrienne
10/10ExcellentLisa M.17 Aug 2022Liked: Cleanliness check-in communication location listing accuracyNoneFantastic Scotland ExperienceCarnell was the perfect spot for our Scotland trip. In Mickey's family for 700 years the historic estate is beautiful and Adrienne and Mickey are wonderful hosts. The lovely and helpful staff especially MJ made our visit so relaxing. There are too many activities available to count. During our stay we rode Clydesdales on the beach in Ayr enjoyed multiple hacks on Gypsy Vanners on the estate visited castles and spent an afternoon at the Highland Games happened upon a Robert Burns World Federation meeting in Kilmarnock and were invited to attend visited the Isle of Arran and climbed Goatfell mountain took a steam train to the highlands went fly fishing and clay pigeon shooting had afternoon tea in Glasgow shopped an impossible number of thrift stores looking for hidden treasures and even had our marriage blessed over the anvil in Gretna Green. We looked forward to the chef's delicious dinners at the estate and Adrienne even arranged a Scottish evening with a harpist a piper and a Burns recitation on our penultimate night. Those in our party who preferred less activity during the day spent time relaxing on the estate and enjoying the multi-course catered lunches. There is something for everyone and the weather was a welcome change for all from our muggy Virginia summer. We can't say enough good things about the trip and our new friends Adrienne and Mickey.Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2022Response from VrboOwner on 31 Aug 2023Lisa her parents and her lovely extended family were wonderful guests enjoying both a very active jam-packed 10 days and also relaxing for those less sporty. We were thrilled that Lisa chose Carnell to celebrate both her own big birthday as well as her father's. The younger members of the party behaved impeccably and despite early mornings and late evenings around the fire pit it was a complete pleasure to have them to stay.
10/10ExcellentKevin H. Carmel-by-the-Sea CA30 Apr 2022Liked: Cleanliness check-in communication location listing accuracyNoneA unique and unforgettable experienceThe idiosyncrasies that come with a home of this age are part of the charm of staying in such a piece of living history. Unlike many estates throughout Europe and UK Carnell has not been stripped bare of it’s family treasures. Small heirlooms of crystal porcelain and silver are everywhere mixed in with family photos and artwork.

The grounds are beautifully maintained with an endless array of places to explore. The house itself is as impressive from the outside as the inside and very photogenic. There is exotic wildlife everywhere. While formal in initial appearance the atmosphere is anything but stuffy; the addition of Micky and Adrienne’s 3 dogs and the occasional appearance of Micky at cocktail hour added warmth and familiarity.

Service: This was a surprise in that it exceeded our already high expectations. Adrienne has experience in hospitality and it really shows. She and Micky have assembled a team which is second to none. Our family is very casual so it was important that the service did not feel intimidating or stuffy. Each member of the team felt like family after 7 days. There were simply too many small details to mention here. They were amazing. Likewise the chef did an outstanding job in providing a full immersion into Scottish culture. The staff was present from early in the morning to late in the evening to ensure every detail was attended to from the starting of the fire to welcome everyone in the morning to meeting every need until all had retired in the evening.

Communication: Adrienne’s attention to detail is impressive. She listens to what you have to say and then makes it happen. We had many special requests throughout our stay and each was accommodated without having to ask twice. Over the years we have dealt with many of the best concierges in the world. Adrienne’s communication skills are truly unsurpassed when compared with this high standard.

Value: Although Carnell is certainly an expensive proposition for a family of 20+ people it does represent a good value for the level of service you receive. We left the experience feeling that we got more than our money’s worth.

Conclusion: We had a very specific vision in mind for the family and Carnell delivered on that vision meeting and exceeding our expectations on every level.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022

Indoor Amenities

Air Conditioning
Internet

Outdoor Amenities

Location

55.559174
-4.428541
2000
WALKING
km
en
15
100%
400px
https://rentacastle.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/CastleIcon-150x150.png
20
54.5
Distance
Address
Walking time
min
Details
£2843 p/n BOOK NOW
FROM
£2843 p/n BOOK NOW