Dumfries House
With a National Art Pass you get
Situated in the heart of an East Ayrshire country estate, Dumfries House is a unique time capsule of the Scottish Enlightenment.
The 18th-century masterpiece of Palladian architecture was designed by the renowned Adam brothers, John and Robert. A private home for more than 250 years, it was however rarely lived in, so its contents have remained almost undisturbed from the day they were installed. Thanks to a rescue bid in which the then Prince of Wales and the Art Fund played a crucial role, Dumfries House was saved for the nation in 2008.
18th-century design
Dumfries House is most famous for its impressive collection of Chippendale furniture. This includes pieces from his ‘Director’ period, some of the finest examples of Chippendale’s work in existence. You will also find furniture by leading Scottish craftsmen such as Alexander Peter, William Mathie and Samuel Smith, showcasing the artistic styles of the Scottish Enlightenment.
Explore the grounds
Set in 2,000 Ayrshire countryside, there is lots to discover, from the oldest building on the estate, a 17th century pigeon house, to the maze opened in 2016 with a Japanese pagoda at its centre. Horticulture enthusiasts are well catered for with gardens across the estate including the Rothesay Woodland and Education Gardens. and jewel in the crown, The Queen Elizabeth Walled Garden.
Outdoor activities
Learn about rural skills and see the animals on Valentin’s Education Farm or climb the structures in the Woodland Adventure Playground next to the Coach House Café. Fancy a swim? The estate even encompasses a refurbished outdoor community pool.
Please note that entry to the House is by guided tour only.
Visitor information
Address
Dumfries House Estate, Cumnock, East Ayrshire, KA18 2NJ
01290 425959
Opening times
1 Apr – 31 Oct
Guided tours Sun–Fri, 10.45am-3.30pm, Sat 10.45am and 12pm
1 Nov–20 Dec, 9 Jan–31 Mar
Sat & Sun 12.15pm (standard tour) and 1.45pm (grand tour)
Visitor information
The more you see, the more we do.
The National Art Pass lets you enjoy free entry to hundreds of museums, galleries and historic places across the UK, while raising money to support them.