Riverbank House

Mixed review. There are many great things about this house. It is ideally situated in the most beautiful area and there is lots to explore but a car is essential. We loved the warm, cosy, homely decor, lots of tartan, the wood burner and the candles so you can cosy up in the evenings. Everything was very clean upon arrival and the kitchen is amazing. Everything you need is there and this includes extras you wouldn't expect, such as cast iron cookware, an awesome double oven range with a plate warmer and a dishwasher means no washing up. We did feel a little let down with the garden however. Although there is loads of space and a fort for the kids, additional maintenance is needed here. Grass was about a foot high when we arrived and all the seating was covered up and in need of painting. A Gardener turned up unexpectedly two days before we were due to leave, which was a bit irritating since we had the whole of our holiday with a messy garden which we didn't really want to sit out in. It would be easy enough to get some hardy perennials such as lavender so there are low maintenance flowers in the three raised beds which are currently overgrown with grass and weeds. There are also some safety issues outside which concerned us. The worst of these is a sunken bin in the grass being used to cover a drain near the play fort. This was covered by a rubber bin lid which my son jumped on whilst playing. It didn't support his weight and he got a suprise when he fell into the drain hole which is about two foot deep. He wasn't hurt but it could have been dangerous. Rotting wood on the hot tub decking also needs to be attended to before somebody has an accident. The hot tub is a great addition and is spacious with strong jets. It's in a perfect secluded position so great for the body conscious who don't want to be over looked. However we found it to be overwhelmingly chlorinated during our stay. We have had many hot tub holidays over the years but this has been the first where the chemicals were so strong it stung our eyes to the extent that we could often not even manage a full cycle. Luckily we were able to add more water with the hose provided but I suggest that whoever maintains this, should double check the chlorine that is added and perhaps lower the amount or change brands. If these things are addressed this would easily be a five star property.

We had the pleasure of staying at Riverbank House in March . The house is spacious and well equipped , a home from home . The furnishings all new and comfortable . The surrounding area beautiful with many places to visit . A good base for sight seeing or walking , whichever you enjoy most . After walking we were able to come back to Riverbank and relax in the Hot Tub with a nice glass of Prosecco . The garden is gated but at the back fence there is a resident Stag who is a pleasure to watch from the Stag room in the house or he comes and takes an apple from your hand . I would highly recommend this beautiful house and will be returning soon .

We had a fantastic stay at Riverbank house which is definitely the best equipped self catering house we've stayed in. The location is a great base for exploring the hills, and the wood stove and hot tub are the perfect welcome back from a day of adventuring. Hosts couldn't have been more helpful and we felt very welcome.

We had a relaxing holiday, with the added bonus of the regular visit from stumpy, the hot tub for relaxing in after those long walks.. We would recommend this accommodation as it felt like home there wasn't a single thing we needed every last thing was thought about. Aimee was amazing kept us up to date with what was happening with regards to maintenance. We loved it that much we would go back there when we visit again.

Our stay at Riverbankhouse was amazing, it’s a bit of paradise, from detail to facilities.. We honestly couldn’t recommend it enough, the local stag with three legs is a little gem. ( we named it stumpy) loves carrots & apples. Having the hot tub with the sunshine we had that week was 10stars. It’s so cosy with the log fire on in the evenings. Having quite a few outdoor hobbies like cycling and wildlife photography I was just in the right place. So much to visit up in Scotland. We loved every minute, and for sure we will go again. Shelton & Georgina x

Amazing accommodation.. Immaculately clean and comfortable. Fantastic surroundings with great walks. Hot tub is a must.constantly heated and always great to get in especially in the Scottish weather. You could easily spend your holiday in and around the cottage. Best Sykes cottage yet to date.