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Merton

Auldgirth, near Dumfries, Southern Scotland
Sleeps 6
Bedrooms 3
Bathrooms 1
Change Fri
Dogs welcome 3
4 star
Parking on site / nearby
Highchair available
Towels included
Family friendly
Internet access
Open fire / wood burner
Enclosed garden / patio
Downstairs bedroom
Downstairs bathroom
Pub nearby
10 more

At a glance

  • Paradise for walkers with numerous country trails and forest tracks to explore
  • Spacious detached stylish cottage with splendid Nithsdale valley views and fully enclosed garden
Property code: OC-77430

Boasting fabulous views across the Nithsdale Valley, this fabulous property sleeps six guests and three hounds. It’s perfect for couples looking to escape from it all on a group walking holiday, or large relaxed family retreats. The four-legged ones will appreciate the huge variety of walks on offer in this part of the country, from wild open moorland to deep, dark woodland.

The detached cottage has been decorated in a contemporary style, with cool greys and warm russet tones creating a balanced and homely atmosphere. There are two lounge areas, so if the woofers need a bit of peace in the evening they can easily slip off and find a quiet spot for a doze. Outside, they’ll love exploring all the new smells in the mature enclosed garden. On a summer’s evening, take your dinner outside, pour yourself a glass of wine and sit back and admire the breathtaking valley views.

Drumlanrig Castle, 10 miles away, is something quite spectacular; the 17th-century Renaissance architecture is utterly gorgeous. The pooches can join you for an amble around the beautiful gardens and along the waymarked trails. To really stretch the legs and paws, challenge yourself on a section of the Southern Upland Way. The 214-mile route runs from the south-west coast to the east and has something for everyone, from short strolls through pretty towns, to day-long hillside hikes. You can pick it up about 20 miles north of the property. For a fun family day out, pack up the gang and journey to the coast to Cream o’ Galloway adventure park (38 miles away). The pups can join you for a tour of the working farm, and there are rides and nature trails for the kids. There’s also an enclosed dog-walking area within a 7-acre woodland.

  • 3 bedrooms – 2 king-size and 1 twin
  • 1 bathroom
  • Electric oven and hob, dishwasher, microwave, fridge/freezer and washing machine
  • 2 wood burners – first basket of logs included
  • 3 well behaved dogs welcome, 4th possible with prior agreement from owner
  • Welcome pack provided
  • Smart TV in lounge and sitting room
  • USB points and hair dryers are located in all rooms
  • Enclosed garden with seating area
  • 1 mile to Pub within walking distance, shops 6 miles
  • Ample private parking available
  • All accommodation is on the ground floor with two steps up to the front and back door entrances
  • Ideal base for nearby wedding venues
  • STL License number : DG01276F
  • EPC rating : E
  • Arrival: 16:00 onwards
  • Departure: before 10:00
  • 3 dogs allowed. Additional charges may apply

Gavin Grant

This property is personally managed by Gavin.

Reviews

From guests that have stayed at the property.

Based on 31 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 4.8 starsOverall cleanliness 4.8 starsOverall cleanliness 4.8 starsOverall cleanliness 4.8 starsOverall cleanliness 4.8 stars4.8
Overall equipment
Overall equipment 4.9 starsOverall equipment 4.9 starsOverall equipment 4.9 starsOverall equipment 4.9 starsOverall equipment 4.9 stars4.9
Overall comfort
Overall comfort 4.9 starsOverall comfort 4.9 starsOverall comfort 4.9 starsOverall comfort 4.9 starsOverall comfort 4.9 stars4.9
Overall location
Overall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 stars4.9

Reviewed by Freda 25th May 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The cottage was amazing, the scenery was amazing, all round everything was amazing, would recommend it to family and friends.

Reviewed by Eann 3rd April 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Merton cottage is a really great place to stay, we loved the size of the property and our two dogs really loved the enclosed garden,the cottage has everything we needed to enjoy a relaxing break and the location was perfect for us to visit family and close to different places to go , we will definitely be back .

Reviewed by Lesley 20th March 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Reviewed by Joseph 9th February 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

A delightful bungalow with lots of space in a lovely location. Garden is secured but a determined dog would easily get out.

Reviewed by Janet 1st February 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Absolutely loved staying at Merton. Accommodation was so spacious and so comfortable . Had a fabulous week and Alison, the owner was so lovely and helpful. Our two doggies had a great time too. I left some medicine in the fridge and Alison ensured I received it the next day. Thank you Alison. Would definitely recommend for a chill out break with trRead moreemendous views. Hide

Reviewed by Neil 9th January 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Reviewed by Graham 14th November 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Good value, lovely location, clean and warm with so much thought given to equipment and necessary items.

Reviewed by Derek 17th October 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

A cottage to suit all. Well equipped and very spacious. Having a lovely fire each night was such a pleasure and it really helped relax us and really wynd down before going back to work.

Reviewed by Lynn 10th October 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Lovely clean cottage with fabulous views. Very relaxing and great for the dogs.

Reviewed by Paula 19th September 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Fabulous location. Cottage had everything we could possibly need. Much better than it looked in the pictures online . Very cosy with the log burners and having 2 sitting rooms was an added bonus too. The beds were super comfy and garden was perfect for the dogs. .lovely wee welcome pack with milk and cakes along with treats for the dogs which was aRead more lovely touch. Hide

Reviewed by Helen 5th September 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Reviewed by Denise 29th August 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The location was ideal for us with amazing views. Our dog enjoyed the enclosed garden. The cottage was perfectly clean and very comfortable. We would definitely stay here again.

Reviewed by Donald 22nd August 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Very clean and spacious spectacular views and the calls of the kites will never be forgotten will definitely return at some point

Reviewed by Bart 8th August 2025

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Reviewed by Rachel 1st August 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Where do I start!? What an amazing property. Every little detail was thought about. Towels and bowls were provided for the dogs even some dog bags and treats. Well equipped kitchen which even has a gusto coffee machine. Huge bedrooms with comfy beds. Ample space in the garden for the dogs to explore and for you to sit in. Location is ideal with a 1Read more0-15 minute drive to Dumfries where you have supermarkets/shops. Lots to do around the area for you and the dogs Hide

Reviewed by Ian 25th July 2025

Guest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 stars

Reviewed by Neil 26th April 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

This cottage is tucked away with stunning views and peaceful neighbours, cows and sheep, The cottage is well equipped and comfortable with secure gardens for dogs The beach is only 40 minutes away and supermarkets 20 minutes making it an ideal location

Reviewed by Debbie 19th March 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Lovely view great for dogs and having a enclosed garden was real good ,ten mins to Dumfrirs by car.nice relaxed time with woodburner fire on at night.A give 10/10 amd will be back.

Reviewed by Tracy 14th March 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Amazing location i would never get bored of the views.very well presented cottage had everything needed for a comfortable stay 100% recomend

Reviewed by Sarah 21st February 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

One of the most well equipped cottages we have stayed in. A really relaxing week, the dogs loved the garden and we loved the star-gazing at night. The two sitting rooms allowed my teens space for gaming and Netflix. Thanks for a great week!

Reviewed by Kevin 31st January 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Peace and tranquility are two of the ingredients for a great week away in the Merton cottage. Set on a hillside overlooking Dumfries and towards the Cumbrian hills, this property was a home from home. Very spacious, plenty of room for 6 of us to live comfortably. Warm and cosy in the sitting rooms, especially with the wood burner on, though the oilRead more central heating radiates a lot of heat. Bedrooms are nice, quality sleeps every night. Secure garden for pets, gated patio too. Can highly recommend. Hide

Reviewed by Donna 27th December 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Reviewed by Helen 4th October 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

This was a fabulous property, well equipped, comfortable and clean. The scenery was beautiful and the dogs enjoyed playing in the secure garden. We loved waking up to the mooing of our very friendly neighbours. We will be back.

Reviewed by George 27th September 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Great large cottage in a lovely rural area. Large enclosed garden for the dogs . Margaret and george ..

Reviewed by Marie 20th September 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Reviewed by Debbie 15th September 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We had a really lovely time in this spacious, modern and comfortable property. The outside space was amazing too and provided a safe space for our small dog to run around to her heart's content without scaring the cows in the field next door. Would definitely like to come back!

Reviewed by Brenda 31st August 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

The cottage had everything we could have wanted, the equipment was great and there was plenty of room. Just the right distance from Dumfries so was very quiet. The area around the cottage was lovey, would highly recommend.

Reviewed by Sean 19th July 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Thoroughly enjoyed our time at this cottage. Location was perfect, peace and quiet and not too far from Dumfries just a 10 min drive away. Garden is amazing, kids and dogs loved it. Very spacious property and all the home comforts required for a relaxing holiday.

Reviewed by George 12th July 2024

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

We enjoyed our stay at Merton as did our friends who joined for the last couple of days. It was very clean and comfortable. Plenty of walks for our dogs in the area and contrary to another review we found the garden perfectly safe and secure for them (two very determined spaniels!). Nice welcome pack and very friendly contact with owner.

Reviewed by Philip 28th June 2024

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

The bungalow was lovely and spacious with comfy beds and sofas. The kitchen was well stocked and the biscuits and milk were appreciated. We loved watching the red kites and the seeing the cows in the fields next to the house. The views were amazing from the living rooms. Nearby, the Dalswinton Estate and Drumlanrig Castle & Gardens are well worth aRead more visit. Hide

Reviewed by Alison 21st June 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

29 more
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Location

Map
Note: As the postcode is used to identify the general area of the property, it may not always reflect its precise location, therefore please only use this map as a guide.
Canine Cottages is a trading name of The Travel Chapter Limited | The Travel Chapter Limited is registered in England and Wales. | Registered office Travel Chapter House, Gammaton Road, Bideford, EX39 4DF. Company No. 02431506 | VAT reg: 143053210.