Location

Old Ballikinrain lies about 3 miles east of Killearn below the Campsie Fells. The surrounding countryside is renowned for its beauty, and the area's accessibility to Glasgow and Stirling also accounts for the unwavering popularity of this part of Stirlingshire.

Killearn has a real community feel, with village stores, a pub, restaurants and a number of specialist shops. There is an excellent primary school in the village and the nearby Balfron High School is highly regarded. Private day schooling can be found throughout Glasgow, with boarding options available at Helensburgh and further north near Stirling and into Perthshire.

Stirling (23.5 miles) is the major town of central Scotland. Once the seat of the Kings of Scotland. William Wallace defeated the English at the battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297 and nearby Bannockburn was the scene of another major Scottish victory in 1314, when Robert the Bruce routed the army of Edward II. Accordingly there are many historical tours and points of interest in the vicinity. Including Stirling Castle.

The highly acclaimed Buchanan Castle Golf Course is within a few miles as well as the world renowned Loch Lomond Golf Club, Carrick Golf course and Spa alongside Cameron House Hotel. Other outdoor pursuits abound, with excellent low ground shooting and also some superb fishing in the area.

Description

Old Ballikinrain occupies an historic site that has reportedly had a house on it since the middle of the 14th century. In 1862 Archibald Orr Ewing acquired the estate and built a new house for himself which stands today known as Ballikinrain Castle and accordingly 'Old Ballikinrain' was formed.

The current owners embarked on a number of changes to create the magnificent family home that stands today. The most influential of these changes is the creation of a superb open plan kitchen, sitting and family area. Timber taken from Douglas Fir trees within the grounds was used to create the striking exposed cross beams. The kitchen itself was handcrafted from oak, also from the estate and features a central breakfasting island with storage beneath, and a further superb range of cabinetry.

Either side of the AGA two arches lead into the open plan family/dining room. With the sun room on one side and clever use of roof lights and windows, this entire wing is flooded with natural light and is very much the functional living hub of the house.

The principal reception rooms showcase high ceilings, stunning fireplaces, cornicing and beautiful chandeliers. The drawing room has fantastic wood panelling and an intriguing archway through to the garden room.

The dining room has a decorative ceiling pattern, impressive open fireplace, exposed timber flooring and traditional sash and case windows with a mirroring archway to that in the drawing room which leads through to the snug.

The bedrooms are all spacious, well lit and have wonderful views. The bathrooms all have unique and beautiful features, finishes and range from freestanding roll top baths in wood panelled rooms to sleek modern shower units with rain heads and heated towel rails.

In its entirety, from the entrance hall to the attic bedrooms, the quality and character of the property can be felt throughout. This "little big house" has a layout and proportions that flow logically and allow for modern living as well as acknowledging the grandeur and history.

The Coach House is a beautiful red sandstone property, and when combined with the former stable block forms a U shape to the side of the main house. The property was restored by the current owners to create a superb three bedroom self contained residence and it offers excellent ancillary accommodation or the potential for holiday lets and commercial income.

The former Bothy is now used as an office with its own shower room. This could also be utilised as a studio flat.

The West Gate Lodge lies adjacent to the principal drive leading to Old Ballikinrain. The property has recently undergone a significant modernisation and now comprises a beautiful two bedroom property with a further bathroom, kitchen and sitting room with an adjoining area of garden.



The gardens surrounding Old Ballikinrain are beautiful. A tarmac driveway sweeps through wooded grounds and in front of the house where a gravel courtyard leads to the principal entrance. The road continues to the rear of the property where there is a planted turning circle and parking with access to the house gained via the boot room.
To the front of the property intricate box hedging can be found bordering the path to the front door.

The 80 acres of grounds are formed predominately of mixed woodland on the approach to the house and then formal gardens and lawns to the front and side.
The trees within the policies offer a variety of colour and blossom throughout the year. Herbaceous borders and shrubs interspersed by various walkways make Old Ballikinrain every bit as appealing externally as it is internally. The grounds mirror the grandeur of the house while being relatively low maintenance in their upkeep.

Throughout the grounds the trees are a distinctive feature, with highlights including an historic yew tree the branches of which form a perfect canopy over an outside dining table. Extensive outdoor lighting creates a truly dramatic and enjoyable setting at night.

Within the grounds, alongside the fabulously lit yew tree dining area, there is a wonderful modern summer house with covered decking and an adjoining covered seating area.

Directions

From Stirling take the A811 for approximately 5 miles after Buchylvie then take the A875 signposted to Balfron. Continue through Balfron and at the staggered junction turn left onto the B818 signposted Fintry. Continue on this road for about 2 miles and the entrance to Old Ballikinrain is signposted on the left hand side.

From Glasgow take the A81 north and at the Y junction beyond Strathblane, veer right onto the A875 signposted Killearn. Continue through the village and about 1.2 miles after leaving the village, turn right onto the B818 signposted Fintry and follow the directions above.