Barmore Steading, Tarbert, Argyll and Bute

Resurrected from a ruinous state in the 1980s, Barmore Steading is a truly wonderful piece of Victorian architecture designed by the eminent architect, Sir William Playfair, who was responsible for some of the most prestigious buildings in Scotland, including much of Edinburgh’s New Town.

Barmore Steading is in the most beautiful of surroundings at the top end of Glenralloch which leads from West Loch Tarbert to the famous Loch Fyne. Barmore Steading is made up of 6 self-catering cottages and a substantial area of land. There is currently planning permission for the erection of 4 dwelling houses on the land; however, the land would be suitable to take great advantage of the location and the boom in tourism by creating, among other ideas, a chalet, glamping or camping site.

Barmore Steading has been in operation with the same owners for over 40 years, firstly as a restaurant and bar and latterly as a holiday let operation. The sale of Barmore Steading is a truly unique opportunity to acquire a truly wonderful lifestyle business with great potential on the West Coast of Scotland. Its versatile layout and flexible accommodation will provide new owners with great expansion potential.

Location

Barmore Steading is located a short distance from the charming and picturesque village of Tarbert, which is considered to be the gateway to the peninsula of Kintyre. Surrounded by rugged hills and a natural harbour Tarbert is host to Scotland’s largest sailing regatta, the Scottish Series. There are lots of independent shops, cafés and restaurants overlooking the harbour in addition to a supermarket and banking services.

Tarbert offers local schooling at nursery, primary and secondary level. There is a short 9-hole golf course and two major golf courses at Machrihanish, including the Machrihanish Links, which is conserved by many to be one of the best in the country. There are also a great many outdoor activities for enthusiasts including fishing, stalking, and shooting.

Tarbert is popular with overnight visitors as it is the last stop before the ferry service to Islay, famed around the world for its whisky. Campbeltown, approx. 40 miles to the south, also offers regular flights to and from Glasgow Airport, which has a great range of national and international flights including many destinations in North America, the Middle East and Mainland Europe.

The main local hub is that of Lochgilphead, a town approximately 14 miles to the north and the administrative centre of Argyll and Bute. Facilities include a swimming pool, a sports centre, a hospital, supermarkets and a nine-hole golf course. The town is approximately 100 miles north of Glasgow, a road journey that takes in some of the most breath-taking scenery that Scotland has to offer.

Business

Barmore Steading currently operates as a lifestyle business to suit the needs of the owners. With three 2-bedroom cottages and three 1-bedoom cottages it operates from Easter through to the end of October. Prices range from £140 to £200 per night. The accommodation is exceptionally popular with tourists exploring the Kintyre Peninsula and Barmore Steading benefits greatly from its excellent reviews, reputation and much repeat business. The business is run with the assistance of 2 part time members of staff as and when required.

There is a great opportunity for new owners to significantly increase revenues or change the direction of the business, such as the introduction of café, farm shop, artisan studio or retreat. Barmore Steading has previously successfully been run as a bar and restaurant and it would be relatively straightforward to re-establish a restaurant with rooms, which is proving to be a very popular and successful business model. The carpark and entrance have been created to cater for a substantial hospitality venue.

Barmore Steading would also make a great events venue with its large lawns suitable for the erection of a marquee.

At the rear of the property is a substantial area of land which currently has planning permission for the erection of 4 dwelling houses. The site would be suitable for a camping/caravan site; development of bespoke glamping pods or chalets to enhance the hospitality business. There are endless opportunities for Barmore Steading.

Property

Shepherd’s Cottage: Once home to Barmore’ Steadings last resident, Shepherd’s Cottage is now a comfortable, tastefully refurbished retreat. Its blend of modern and traditional décor and open fire make it ideal for relaxing after exploring the Kintyre Peninsula or nearby islands. Guests can unwind in the courtyard, watch for wildlife, or enjoy walks to Barmore Island and Loch Fyne, where seals and otters are often seen.

The Cartshed: Formerly housing farm equipment and Clydesdale horses, The Cartshed is now a spacious, light-filled cottage. Original arched windows brighten the open-plan living and kitchen area. The master bedroom has an en-suite, while the twin room features a modern shower room. Guests can relax by the log stove or dine on the private patio.

The Bothy: Located in the oldest part of the steading, The Bothy is a cosy, refurbished one-bedroom apartment with open-plan living and kitchen. Natural materials nod to its history. The bedroom offers fitted wardrobes, and the bathroom has modern fittings and ample storage for outdoor gear.

The Hayloft: This bright, one-bedroom loft conversion features an open lounge and kitchen with an oak breakfast bar. Roof lights and west-facing windows create a modern, airy feel. Storage includes a built-in wardrobe and space for bikes. A log-burning stove adds warmth, and a private patio offers garden views.

Dairymaid’s Cottage: Recently refurbished, Dairymaid’s Cottage is a spacious, light-filled one-bedroom retreat. Glass walls face the courtyard and evening sun, while the living area features leather sofas and a fireplace. The kitchen includes a handmade breakfast bar, and the bedroom has a super-king bed and seating area. The bathroom offers a walk-in shower and bath.

A sixth, two-bedroom cottage, is for private use.

External

The steading has a large area of lawn to the front and carpark to the side that can easily accommodate 20 vehicles. The driveway and road access are suitable for a substantial hospitality business.

The land with planning permission is accessed via a road running past the carpark. It benefits from an elevated position with some outstanding views over the surrounding countryside.