Portmore Estate  is set amidst tranquil and unspoilt countryside, some five miles to the north of the historic market town of Peebles and about 18 miles from the centre of Edinburgh. The estate extends to about 3,459 acres (1,400 hectares) in all.

Emma Chalmers, a Partner with Galbraith, said: “The combination of the highly accessible location and the extraordinary quality of the principal house, together with the notable policies, estate houses, land and diverse income generating opportunities, ensure that Portmore Estate is a very attractive proposition. The gardens at Portmore are amongst the most beautiful in Scotland.

“The sale of this property offers an exceptionally rare opportunity to acquire a magnificent Scottish estate, enjoying a very peaceful and private setting yet within commuting distance of Edinburgh.”  

 

Portmore House is a Category A-Listed country house built in 1850 and designed by the famous Scottish architect David Bryce, regarded as Scotland’s leading Victorian architect and noted for perfecting the Scottish Baronial style, of which Portmore House can be considered a superb example.

The house is beautifully presented throughout, with elegant light-filled reception rooms ten charming principal bedrooms and practical ancillary accommodation, all complemented by a wealth of period features throughout and very much of a scale that is suitable for modern living. Each room commands delightful, uninterrupted views re-affirming the wonderfully private setting of the estate.

The gardens at Portmore are a notable feature of the estate, having been carefully restored and developed under the current ownership of the last 40 years. A tree lined drive leads from the entrance lodge to an extensive gravelled sweep to the front of the house with lawns and a backdrop of specimen trees. The parterre and fountain are set in the grass terraces and surrounded by yew hedges, providing beautiful vistas for those enjoying the grounds.

 

The Walled Garden is exquisite and since 1987 has been extensively restored by the current owners. Its traditional style has been complemented by a more contemporary approach, resulting in an outstanding and significant garden of considerable note. Extending to 1.5 acres, the Walled Garden benefits from a southerly aspect, with a Victorian glasshouse and brick outbuildings on the north side.

The garden is symmetrically laid out with gravelled paths, lawned areas, hedging, herbaceous borders, shrubs and specimen trees.

To the east is the Water Garden with a stream and number of pools interplanted with shrubs and trees. Lying beyond is a woodland walk with a fine collection of azaleas, rhododendrons and spring bulbs completing the superb horticultural features at Portmore.

Portmore Lodge (one bedroom), Hillhead (two bedrooms), and Primrose Cottage (three bedrooms), form part of Lot 1 and offer additional accommodation to the principal house as well as alternative uses including as staff accommodation.

The farming arrangement at Portmore Estate is centred on Boreland Farm, principally focused on sheep along with a herd of 70 suckler cows. The farm is run in hand with a farm manager. Boreland Farm comprises a traditional six-bedroom farmhouse, two semi-detached cottages, a bothy, a further cottage and a practical range of modern and traditional farm buildings with a good sized yard adjacent. Boreland Farm extends to about 2,253 acres, (911 hectares).

The land comprises approximately 218 acres of arable and temporary grassland, 665 acres of permanent pasture, 172 acres of rough grazing, 1,587 acres of hill ground, with 639 acres of woodland and forestry.  There is also a stocked reservoir with fishing chalet.

 

The diverse woodlands surrounding Portmore House and to the north of the estate have been sympathetically managed for sustainable commercial timber production, amenity and sporting purposes. There are significant areas of land with potential for further woodland creation. Further, Portmore Estate previously ran a highly regarded low ground pheasant shoot which could easily be re-established if desired. There are also opportunities for roe stalking and habitat creation.

The attractive market town of Peebles is about five miles to the south of the Estate whilst Edinburgh is some 18 miles to the north, offering all the facilities and attractions of one of Europe’s most celebrated cities. Edinburgh Airport, about 22 miles, offers good connections to the rest of the UK along with a wide range of European and North American destinations.

Portmore Estate is for sale as follows:

  • As a whole (Lots 1, 2 and 3) offers over £15,000,000
  • Lot 1 Portmore House, Portmore Lodge, Primrose Cottage, Hillhead Cottage and Land (extending in total to 274 acres, 111 hectares)  £5,000,000
  • Lot 2 Farmland, Reservoir and Woodlands extending to about 932 Acres (377 hectares)  £3,500,000 (not for sale as a single lot)
  • Lot 3 Boreland Farm (Extending to about 2,253 acres, 911 hectares) £6,500,000 (not for sale as a single lot) £6,500,000

Please note that Lots 2 and 3 are not available to purchase individually; nor will Lots 1 and 3 be sold together.  For more information contact Galbraith.