East Mill House, Formakin Estate, Houston Road, Bishopton, PA7

Timeless and elegant former mill house within the historic Formakin Estate

Description

East Mill House is a remarkable home set within the beautifully restored Mill House on the prestigious Formakin Estate. The estate spans approximately 170 acres, with the grand mansion at the heart of the estate thoughtfully converted in the late 20th century by renowned historic property developer Kit Martin into six unique residences. The estate’s ancillary buildings, including the former Meal Mill and Bothy block – of which East Mill House is a part – were meticulously restored around 14 years ago.

This exceptional property seamlessly combines luxurious, contemporary interiors with the timeless charm of a period villa. It is one of two attached residences, designed with a layout that ensures privacy both indoors and within the landscaped gardens. The property benefits from allocated off-road parking adjacent to the front garden, with secure pedestrian access leading into beautifully landscaped and well-maintained grounds.

The current owners have undertaken a comprehensive programme of upgrading, creating a stylish and flexible home arranged over three levels, finished to a meticulous standard. A programmable Leax lighting system extends throughout, with a Sonos sound system on the ground floor and a Bang & Olufsen system on the second floor. Traditional-style double-glazed windows and oil-fired central heating ensure modern comfort.

The main entrance opens into a stunning open-plan reception area, ideal for entertaining. A striking feature is the exposed stone wall and a contemporary staircase of timber and glass. This space flows into a magnificent kitchen and dining area, the heart of the home, where the original mill wheel – once used to grind grain – is preserved and illuminated as a dramatic focal point.

The bespoke kitchen, designed by Richard Baker, features full-height cabinetry, integrated appliances including a wood-burning stove and coffee machine and a central island with a Miele induction hob and Dietrich extractor. Two state-of-the-art Miele ovens are built into the island, while additional cabinetry offers extensive workspace, twin sinks and appliance space. A casual dining and family sitting area completes the space, with arched double-glazed doors opening to the front patio and garden. A utility room and rear stair access complete this level.

Accessed via both the main and rear staircases, the first floor includes a WC and a stylish drawing room with custom cabinetry, a Minster-style fireplace and a wood-burning stove. This spacious lounge accommodates ample seating and even a grand piano. A panelled hallway leads to a guest bedroom with dual-aspect windows, fitted wardrobes and a luxurious en suite bathroom featuring limestone tiling, underfloor heating, a freestanding cast iron bath and a wet-room style shower.

The upper level houses four additional bedrooms and a family bathroom with Duravit fittings, including a bath with central mixer tap, a separate shower, WC and twin basins. The show-stopping principal suite features a split-level layout with sleeping, dressing and bathing areas. Highlights include a deep fitted wardrobe, a dressing area illuminated by five Velux windows and an open-plan bathroom with a spa bath, twin basins and separate WC and wet room shower enclosures – all set on a limestone floor with underfloor heating. Three further individually styled bedrooms complete this level.

The private, predominantly south-facing gardens have undergone extensive re-landscaping, featuring mature planted beds, raised borders, stone retaining walls and a manicured lawn. A cobbled patio and gravelled terrace provide ideal spaces for outdoor dining and entertaining, complemented by a raised seating area and a detached summer house at the garden’s upper level.

Residents of East Mill House also enjoy shared access to the wider Formakin Estate, including grazing land, stables and parkland, with an annual contribution toward estate maintenance.

Location

East Mill House is positioned on the periphery of Formakin Estate which spans approximately 170 acres of picturesque parkland, verdant policy woodlands and beautifully curated formal gardens, each with its own distinct theme—such as the tranquil Oriental Garden and the elegant Fountain Garden. The estate’s landscape design draws significant inspiration from Gertrude Jekyll’s renowned work at Munstead Wood in Surrey, harmonizing perfectly with the medieval architectural style of Formakin House.

Nestled on the edge of rural Renfrewshire, Formakin enjoys a scenic setting near the River Clyde, just four miles from the charming town of Kilmacolm. This vibrant village is well-regarded for its quality local shops and the reputable co-educational St Columba’s School. Kilmacolm also offers a welcoming pub, wine bar and a number of restaurants along with four churches, making it a well-rounded community.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find ample opportunities for shooting, fishing, hiking and horse-riding. Golfers are well catered for too, with Kilmacolm’s own respected course and nearby clubs in Bridge of Weir including Old Ranfurly, Ranfurly Castle, and Gleddoch.
The Firth of Clyde, known for some of Scotland’s finest sailing waters, is within easy reach, with excellent marinas at Largs and Inverkip.

Formakin is also ideally located for travel, with Glasgow International Airport just a short drive away. The airport provides an expanding range of domestic and international flights, including routes to major European business hubs, North America and Dubai. Glasgow itself – one of the UK’s leading financial centres – is renowned for its world-class shopping and can typically be reached in under 30 minutes by car.

Square Footage: 3,362 sq ft



Additional Info

Water - Mains
Electricity - Mains
Drainage - shared septic tank
Heating - Oil

B Listed building
Factored by the Estate - £180 approx. per month