: ‘…down on the haugh below and close to the river in a pretty garden cottage, dwelt the old Lady Tilquhillie…and her old manservant, Sandy McCanch [who] furnished the Dean with many a bit of Deeside life and humour’

from Reminiscences of Scottish Life and Character by B.Ramsay

Built over 150 years ago, Sandy’s@Tilquhillie forms part of a large Victorian country house, surrounded by wooded gardens. Sandy’s, while only just a mile outside Banchory, is a whole world away. 

Having bought the main house in 2020, we have spent our lockdown restoring and renovating Sandy’s, as it was the original servants’ area of the main house.  

 We live in the main house along with our two canine friends, who will probably want to say hello when you arrive.We are often around as maintaining this lovely house and managing the large,woodland garden takes up a lot of our time.

With off-road parking and direct access to woodland walks, you will want to explore the area on foot or bike. Our road is more likely to see cyclists than cars.

Recently installed double-glazing, insulation, under floor heating and electric radiators ensure that Sandy's is lovely and warm all year round.

 The one-bedroom annex can either be made as a king or twin room. What was the butler’s pantry is now a well-equipped, open-plan kitchen/ dining/ living area with sofa plus wall-mounted smart TV. There is a shower room and separate toilet. Please note, there is no bath.

Unfortunately the annex is not suitable for children or those with limited mobility due to the sloping nature of the garden and steps leading down to the front door.

We have a Short Term Let Licence granted by Aberdeenshire Council (No: AS00316F) valid until 2027.

As Sandy's was formed from the Victorian servants’ lounge, butlers pantry and larder, it is very much still a part of the main house. Sandy's does have its own exclusive entrance but there maybe some noise transfer to and from the main house. Sandy's has somewhat variable mobile phone reception. Some providers are better than others but we would be surprised if any offer 4G inside the annex. Wi-fi is fast in the kitchen/living room, meaning the smart TV is capable of working with your favourite streaming service but in certain parts of the bedroom Wi-fi strength can drop significantly. Granite, it seems, is particularly good at interfering with both W-fi and mobile phone signal! Electric vehicle charging is available in various locations in Banchory.

We support Apollo's Angels who found us our lovely boy dog, Walter. For every late checkout (subject to availability) we will donate 15 GBP to make sure other dogs get a new forever home.

Guest Review

"What a find, we had a fantastic week at Sandy’s while fishing on the Dee. The accommodation is finished to a high standard, spotlessly clean and was equipped with everything we needed during our stay plus a few extras that really made us feel welcome. The enclosed garden was perfect for our lively cocker spaniel who loved running around like she was on a Grand Prix circuit and we could relax because she couldn’t escape! We will definitely be back 😁" 

Sue & David