Oatleycleugh Barn

From commencing work in February 2023, to finally welcoming guests in October 2025, it's been a journey from disused bothy to warm and welcoming barn conversion.

It started with a comment; 'people would pay to wake up to this view'. A view that we woke up to everyday and probably took for granted, but it was always something people commented on when they visited. So the cogs started turning, maybe welcoming people into our story wasn't such a bad idea, maybe this could be another avenue of helping people understand British farming. But where would we park the quad bike?...

Plans were formulated, the finances were arranged, the wonderfully patient tradesmen were contacted and we began. The footprint is the same as the original building, but we've added some windows and where the dog kennel stood is now a utility room with underfloor heating. Alan Kinghorn and his team are behind the incredible joinery throughout - from the real oak windowsills (from a fallen Oak tree on the farm) to the built-in wardrobe in the bedroom; a design scribbled on a piece of paper that Alan and his team incredibly managed to bring to life. Malcolm, our good natured builder, listened to our sometimes contradictory instructions and ideas, yet somehow always managed to get it spot on. His patio is a masterpiece on which to enjoy a glass of prosecco during a sunny day. The plumber Will's experience was invaluable when it came to getting things in the right order. He helped greatly as we found our way with the Sunamp system, a new hot water system for us all to get to grips with, which has proved a popular choice for the shower with the best view in the Borders. Steven, our long suffering electrician, embraced our vision and ran with it, his suggestions have been used throughout, and he was on hand immediately to help deal with the underfloor heating that decided on early retirement before the first guests arrived.

It was a long slog, we revisited the budget, and the bank, a few more times before it was completed, and we would still say we have probably only completed phase 1. For phase 2 and 3 we are looking to install a wood-fired outside bath, some outdoor storage for a BBQ or bikes, and maybe a dog kennel and a gun cabinet for visiting shooters in the area. There are always improvements to be made but the initial feedback we've received is more than encouraging and we are looking forward to what the future of Oatleycleugh Barn brings. Be sure to come and visit!

Our most recent Air BnB reviews...

'This is one of the best ever places I have stayed. The barn is just beautiful and you can see how much attention to detail has gone into creating this space. It is contemporary and cosy at the same time. The heated floor in the boot/utility room and in the bathroom are just brilliant ideas. The views are amazing, even in. November the hills are green and there is a peacefulness about the whole area. A fantastic place for dogs with enclosed outside space and plenty of nearby places for walks. I wish I had been able to stay longer. I will definitely return. Thank you to Laura and her husband for being great hosts'

'Laura’s place is beautiful, relaxing and had the perfect layout for a weekend retreat. We loved every minute and Laura was a super responsive host which made our stay really relaxing. The house itself is absolutely stunning. We loved making use of the log burner and the morning views were beautiful. Would thoroughly recommend and we’ll definitely be back.'