The Mews Insch

The Mews is part of our house, which is on a bit of land just outside Insch. It's a big place, built in 1842, attached to the main house which is older. You get private use of the walled garden out back and the parkland at the front, where we keep our miniature Shetland ponies. There's a small lake down there too.

It sleeps eight, across four bedrooms, but there are two bathrooms and both are downstairs. There's no bathroom upstairs. The planners won't allow it because the building is listed. The stairs are fine, but the layout is a bit unusual. There are two separate staircases up to the bedrooms, one on each side of the living room. On one side, two of the bedrooms connect, so you have to walk through one to get to the other. Good for a family, less good for two couples.

Inside, the kitchen is well-equipped but not huge. You can seat four there. There's a separate dining room that seats eight comfortably. There's also a wine fridge that holds 48 bottles. We've got a woodburning stove, wifi, a tv, a dishwasher and washing machine. Bedding and towels are included. You can bring up to two dogs.

The local shop is about a ten minute walk. The pub and a restaurant are about a fifteen minute walk. They both serve food.

For things to do, you're right in castle country. There are dozens within a half hour drive. The Hill of Bennachie is great for walking. There's a place called the Lochter Centre near Inverurie that does outdoor activities like clay shooting and go-karts. There's local fishing and golf courses nearby too.

A few links that might help you plan: National Trust for Scotland for historic places, and Visit Scotland for general ideas.