Autumn Escape: Montagu Cottage at Drumlanrig Castle

Looking for the perfect autumn escape? Found it. Montagu Cottage, nestled within the breathtaking Drumlanrig Castle estate, is a little slice of heaven. Think tasteful interiors, dreamy beds, divine bathrooms, and every detail thoughtfully considered. And yes — there’s a hot tub with spectacular views across the rolling estate.

This dog-friendly, family-friendly cottage made the perfect getaway for me, my girls, and a few friends. Even the drive up to the castle takes your breath away — imposing, dramatic, and majestic, even on a dreich Scottish day. But pulling up to our cottage and stepping inside our home for a few days was even better. Beautifully designed, it had us reaching for the Farrow & Ball swatches to try and match the soft greens, creams, and accents of red and blue. It’s a masterclass in understated country style.

When we weren’t relaxing in front of the fire or soaking in the hot tub, we explored the estate. The kids — teenagers though they are — reverted happily to childhood in the Adventure Playground, which guests can enjoy free of charge and is open daily until the end of October. We warmed up with hearty soups at The Larchwood Cabin before wandering through the estate’s Victorian gardens, bursting with late-season colour and currently transformed with a Halloween Trail and pumpkin patch that bring seasonal magic to the grounds.

We also hired the estate’s E-bikes and had a blast racing through the crisp October air (note to self: gloves next time!). The kitchen had everything we needed for easy-cook dinners in, followed by starry-night hot tubs and a glass of something sparkling.

Drumlanrig isn’t just a pretty place to stay — the estate describes itself as where culture, countryside and quiet luxury meet. With so much on-site — from walking trails of up to seven kilometres where you can discover such gems as the UK’s largest sycamore tree, to clay pigeon “have-a-go” sessions, to fishing by the River Nith — it’s a destination that offers far more than just a base.

Our visit couldn’t have been better timed — with the castle’s turrets and misty woodland setting, it gave us total Celebrity Traitors vibes.

And if you’re tempted a little escape to Drumlanrig this autumn, here’s an exclusive: Hood readers enjoy 15% off stays across the estate with code HOOD15, valid until the end of 2026 (excludes Christmas & New Year).