Formakin House — Attraction in Scotland

This is not an easy place to explore, a fact that doesn't seem to be readily available when searching details of the place. It seems that once upon a time there was a £3 car park on the estate that even had some sort of information board - this is most definitely NOT the case now as finding somewhere nearby to park up will be your first major challenge (which seems to be something the nearby 'Run Free Dog Fields' are aware of, going by the nasty signs in their car park that actively encourage their customers to photograph 'illegaly' parked vehicles and send them to a mobile number that will apparently track down the miscreants and hit them with a £100 fine!). I ended up parking on a slightly widened part of the road further down the hill, just before the estate entrance that clearly states 'No Unauthorised Vehicle Access'! - not ideal but it really is the only option (trust me - before finally parking I drove a complete circuit on the miles of surrounding back roads in search of somewhere safer)

Once inside the estate it's easy enough to follow the 'Core Path' which takes you on a very pleasant loop around the main house, passing through wooded areas and onto a well tended mown path through wild meadows then eventually round a very picturesque pond that lies beneath the main house. It's so easy to follow mainly because there are charming little metal monkeys perched on posts at each junction pointing the correct route.

Pleasant though it is, today will be my one and only visit to the place as it isn't really worth the hassles in getting there, especially as there are so many other beautiful walks in the immediate area that are far more welcoming. In this estate it really feels like you're rarely more than a few yards from some sign shouting...

Absolutely beautiful place that our family has known and visited for over 50 years. You should definitely go and enjoy the loop walk, sign-posted by monkeys. Beware, however, of an awful, rude, woman who lives in one of the houses. Every time we've gone recently she's made a hoo-ha about parking and questioned us about whether we pick up after our dogs...Obviously we do. She's seemingly intent on being as unwelcoming as possible. So, please go, enjoy the walk, and try not to let her awfulness ruin a beautiful place. If you meet her, tell her...

Although a private estate, Formakin is available to walk around for sensible visitors. Unfortunately not suitable for infirm or...