Landfill Communities Fund supports Dumfries House

Thursday, 20 October 2011 00:00

Prestigious initiative benefits the historic Dumfries House in Ayrshire

Barr Environmental have contributed £310,000 to this prestigious initiative, specifically to refurbish part of Dumfries House and create a kitchen area which can ultimately be used to provide training opportunities in conjunction with Ayr College, and to serve the public cafe within the grounds.

A further £138,000 was contributed towards the Lugar Water Trail.  This trail begins in Cumnock and follows Lord Bute's Walk as it skirts Knockroon Wood and follows the Lugar Water to Ochiltree.  This scenic route also takes in the beautiful Dumfries Estate and is a key element of East Ayrshire Council's Access Strategy and runs through the grounds of the estate.

Built between 1754 and 1760 by the Adam brothers for the 5th Earl of Dumfries, with a unique collection of Chippendale furniture, the house has been described as an 18th century time-capsule, since the principal rooms and their contents have remained virtually unchanged for around 250 years.

In June 2007, The Prince of Wales headed a consortium of charities and heritage bodies to purchase this unique house, its contents, and adjoining land, in order to keep this historical jewel intact and accessible to the public.

A charitable trust was formed and named after one of His Royal Highness's titles.  The Great Steward of Scotland's Dumfries House Trust is to take forward the important work of preserving this cultural treasure for future generations.

Dumfries House was officially opened by HRH Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay on 6th June 2008, allowing members of the public to be able to view this most authentic 18th century heritage property, its astounding collection of 18th century Scottish furniture, and its extensive collection of pieces by Thomas Chippendale.