A bijou pad perfectly placed for weekend escapes, with top-notch restaurants also right on the doorstep
In the picturesque and prosperous coastal town of Gullane stands a striking red-sandstone building. In 1892, this opened as The Royal Archers Hotel; today, its ground floor today houses Archer’s Retreat, a wonderful, contemporary apartment.
On Gullane’s thriving Main Street, the spot remains ultra-convenient, particularly for foodies: Michelin-starred chef Tom Kitchin's informal restaurant The Bonnie Badger is just a hop, step and jump from your front door (but probably a slightly slower and more contented walk back), while fine-dining La Potinière restaurant, situated just opposite, is owned by acclaimed chefs Keith Marley and Mary Runciman — founder members of the Scotch Beef Club and local-produce fanatics.
Golf aficionados will be equally cock-a-hoop. Atop a volcanic plug, the town’s Gullane Golf Club features not one but three world-class, 18-hole links courses with beautiful, undulating greens and spectacular views over the Firth of Forth. On top of that, you’ll be just a few booming drives away from Muirfield, a regular venue for The Open Championship, and the world’s 13th oldest club in North Berwick.
Following days out — cycling, seabird safaris, hikes along part of the long-distance John Muir Way and nature-reserve walks are easily enjoyed locally, too, while Gullane Bents’ sublime curve of golden sand is just a ten-minute walk away — you’ll return to a hugely relaxing base. Archer’s Retreat’s bright, open-plan living space features calming blue hues dotted with nostalgic artwork evocative of coastal colours.
Small but very well-equipped, the kitchen faces onto a comfortable sofa and armchair beyond its neat breakfast bar for two. Ahead, double doors open out to a small balcony and table: ideal for al-fresco morning coffees, sundowners or one last glass of wine (or nip of local Glenkinchie malt whisky).
Set at the apartment’s front, your spacious sleeping quarter features a king-size bed and en-suite loo. Soft light floods into the room courtesy of its large window; to one side, a Smart TV enables viewing from under the duvet. A bathtub and shower combo await in the separate bathroom.
Edinburgh is just a 45-minute drive away. Just up-coast, the nearby seaside towns of North Berwick and Dunbar promise more beaches, more golf and some great, cafe-sponsored shopping in independent stores. If architecture or gardens are more your cup of tea, try the local Greywalls Hotel: overlooking Muirfield, this listed building was built to Sir Edwin Lutyens’ blueprint and accompanies greenery designed by Gertrude Jekyll.
GROUND FLOOR
Access door leads directly into small access hall.
Open plan living area comprising:
Kitchen with induction hob, electric oven, fridge with small ice-box, slimline dishwasher, washing machine. Breakfast bar with two stools.
Living area with double sofa, armchair and Smart TV. This leads out to a small balcony with café table and two chairs which looks out onto a shared lower ground floor courtyard.
Bathroom with bath and shower over, heated towel rail, basin and WC.
Large bedroom (front facing) with king size bed, side tables, chest of drawers, hanging rail, chair, Smart TV.
En-suite WC with basin.
OUTSIDE
The apartment benefits from a small balcony which is accessed via the open plan living area. This has a café table and two chairs. A barbecue is not provided. There is a communal garden which is shared between all apartments with bench seating.
PARKING
There is a designated private parking space for one car. Additional on-street parking can be found opposite on Main Street.
BABIES & CHILDREN
The property is not felt to be particularly suited to babies and children.
DOGS
Sorry, dogs are not permitted.
GUEST AMENITIES
Bed linen and towels are provided. A hairdryer is provided.
WI-FI & MOBILE COVERAGE
Wi-Fi is available. Mobile coverage is good on most networks.
HEATING
The property has gas central heating throughout which is thermostatically controlled.
GUEST PRIVACY
The apartment is a ground floor apartment in a building that comprises four other apartments in this wing, with four apartments on the other side. The garden area is a communal space.
ADDITIONAL ACCOMMODATION
For guests looking to holiday together, Little Archer is available to book and is within the same building.
