Fishing Hut at Dod Mill

• Sleeps: 2 +2
• Bedroom: 1
• Bathrooms: External
• Minimum stay: 2 nights

Part of a much-loved, family-run smallholding that’s steeped in heritage and teeming with wildlife (including rare-breed sheep!), Dod Mill Fishing Hut is a dreamy woodland hideaway, set on the bank of the Boondreigh River.

Originally crafted by an artist over 20 years ago, the off-grid Fishing Hut comprises an exquisite handmade cabin at one end, and a vintage caravan at the other; both lovingly renovated by Dod Mill’s friendly owners, Ruth and Jamie.

Everything you need to relax and unwind with your loved one has been thoughtfully provided, including two scenic decks – one facing the river and the other perfect for catching the last of the evening sun – to help you absorb the tranquil, natural beauty of the Great Outdoors at their absolute greatest.

Linger outside awhile, lighting the camp firepit for a sizzling sunset supper, or head back in, where the elegant ESSE Bakeheart stove-cooker will be waiting… complete with a charming kitchen and an unlimited supply of locally-sourced logs.

What other delights will you discover in the wooden part of the cabin? There’s a squishy sofa to curl up on, a day bed for afternoon lazing, and a cosy reading nook that’s perfect for getting lost in a magical tale – or perhaps even firing up your creative spirit and writing your own!

When it’s finally time to turn in, simply wander along to the vintage caravan, where you’ll find a downy double bed; primed for lazy lie-ins with its new mattress, aubergine bedlinen, and a stock of extra blankets to keep you lovely and toasty. There’s plenty of under-bed storage for all those holiday bits and bobs, too.

You’ll have a handy state-of-the-art eco-loo just outside the cabin, while the sparkling private Wash House is just a few minutes’ walk away – ideal for freshening up after an energetic day trip or lazy woodland ramble alike. Here you’ll also find a flushing toilet, plus a washing machine.

At a glance

• An artist-crafted, lovingly renovated off-grid haven, consisting of a log cabin and a vintage caravan, set on the banks of the Boondreigh river, within a private five-acre smallholding.
• Two guests can be accommodated in the double bed, with a sofa bed in the lounge to sleep up to three in total.
• There are indoor and outdoor cooking facilities, and a state-of-the-art eco-loo just outside the cabin. There is a private wash house just a few minutes’ walk away.
• Relax on your favourite of two beautiful, scenic decks and watch the local wildlife – or resident grazing sheep! – going about their day.
• The smallholding is located just four miles away from the former Royal Burgh of Lauder, with easy access to the wider Scottish Borders area and beyond. Friendly owners Ruth and Jamie are on hand with local suggestions if needed.
• There is a selection of accommodation on site, which can be booked together for larger group stays of 10-13 people.

Features

• Dog Friendly
• Family Friendly
• Off-Grid

More information

Watch wild ducks glide past on the river, over a welcome cuppa or a well-deserved glass of wine (you might also catch sight of a heron or an otter if you’re lucky), or get involved in on-site shepherding duties if you’re feeling up for a challenge!

The five-acre smallholding boasts an intriguing history, including characterful buildings and an original stone-built watermill that dates back to the 1700s. Stay put and absorb the unique charm of these surroundings, or get out and explore the beauty of the wider Scottish Borders.

Just four miles from the former Royal Burgh of Lauder, you’re perfectly located not only for exploring the Borders area, but also the likes of bustling Edinburgh if you so choose.

As such, everything you could possibly wish for is in easy reach, from fairytale Scottish castles and traditional afternoon teas, to epic walking and cycling trails. The choice is yours!

Things to note

Check in from 4pm, check out by 9:30am. Please note that the hut is a few minutes’ walk from the parking area, and is immediately next to a sometimes fast-flowing river, so may not be suitable for young children. Well-behaved dogs can be accommodated only by request, and only if kept on a lead at all times outside the cabin due to grazing sheep close by. The owners live on site and are on hand to answer queries if needed, but will respect your privacy during your stay. There is no Wi-Fi, but good 3G/4G should be available most of the time.