Craufurdland Estate

Due to increased demand for outdoor activities, East Ayrshire based Craufurdland Estate received a £50,000 growth loan from Business Loans Scotland to expand their business offering.

Set in 600 acres of stunning Ayrshire countryside, Craufurdland Castle has been home to the Craufurds of Craufurdland since 1245. Since 2011, owners Simon and Adity have opened and transformed the estate into a family-friendly outdoor activity and hospitality venue. The estate boasts a range of activities ranging from Fishing, Mountain Biking to Adventure Runs. Most recently the team at Craufurdland have expanded into the hospitality sector by building and launching the Laird’s Table. A casual restaurant serving the finest, locally sourced, fresh and impeccable food where guests can enjoy uninterrupted views of the Ayrshire countryside. The castle can also be booked for exclusive use staycations and corporate events.

Craufurdland Estate has now secured a funding package of £205,000, £50,000 of which Business Loans Scotland has provided. This funding will enable them to realise their new outdoor activity project which will see the introduction of a Tree Top High Wire adventure course which will feature a Zip Wire for adventurers of all ages.

Upon receiving the funding, Simon Douglas Houison Craufurd, Laird of the estate said:

“The support we have received from BLS has been a crucial piece of the jigsaw to help us develop into a quality activity centre.  Working with Mark was a pleasure and his patience and understanding during these very difficult times has been a huge help in our success.”

Andrew Dickson, Fund Manager of Business Loans Scotland added:

"As a business involved in leisure, tourism and hospitality sector, the last 12 months have been extremely challenging for the Directors and staff. The Coronavirus pandemic effectively halted the business’s expansion plans and when lockdown restrictions began to ease, I was delighted Business Loans Scotland was able to support Craufurdland with project and working capital finance to help the business complete its Tree Top Trials. As lockdown restrictions continue to ease and businesses involved in the leisure and hospitality sector start up again, I wish the company well in taking advantage of its new opportunities.”