Admirable outlook for any buyer
By John Paul Breslin
FEW houses can boast such admirable connections. For Eliock House was once the home of Robert Crichton, the first Lord Eliock, Lord Advocate of Scotland in 1560 and father of polymath son James – ‘The Admirable Crichton’.
James Crichton, who was born at Eliock House, gained fame throughout Europe as a handsome and accomplished young scholar, linguist, swordsman, horseman, musician and poet.
Hence the sobriquet, which was later used by JM Barrie as the title for his comic stage play in 1902. It was also the title of a 1957 film starring Kenneth More.
Considered a model of the cultured Scottish gentleman, James graduated from St Andrews University at the age of 17 and travelled to Paris and Venice. He died before his 22nd birthday but had already lived an extraordinarily full life.
A handbill printed in Venice in 1580 attributed to him excellence in athletics, skill in arms and horsemanship, mastery of ten languages, encyclopaedic familiarity with scholastic and Christian philosophy, and a remarkable ability to debate on any subject proposed. His childhood home is just as impressive.
Located in the scenic Nith Valley to the north of Thornhill, Dumfriesshire, it has extensive grounds and enjoys wonderful views.
A beautiful B-listed stone-built mansion house, it has three floors, with a cellar level below.
The approach to the house is via a drive, over a C-listed stone bridge spanning the Garpal Burn, which runs through the grounds.
Characterised by tall windows – many with shutters – high ceilings with cornicework and grandeur throughout, Eliock House offers a stunning home for any buyer.
The formal rooms are found on the first floor, including the magnificent ballroom with its multiple windows and exquisite polished wooden floor.
Also on this level is the upper sitting room and dining room, both with fireplaces, and the music room. The ground floor is where the main kitchen is located, along with another sitting room and the reception hall.
All six charming double bedrooms are on the top floor, along with two shower rooms, a bathroom and a toilet. The property is heated using a wood chip boiler.
Included in the sale is Gardener’s Cottage, a one-storey dwelling consisting of a sitting room, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. There are also various outbuildings, mostly former stables, now used for storage and as garages.
The oldest part of the property is the tower house dating from the 16th century, with various significant additions since then.
There is now the chance to buy a most admirable slice of history – Eliock House is on the market for the first time in almost a century.
Offers over £695,000. Contact Caroleanne Gallagher at Savills on 0141 222 5875.