Souter Johnnie's Cottage
As it became known, stayed in the Davidson family until 1920. It was then handed over to a committee who oversaw its restoration, funded by Sir John Richmond of Blanefield. The cottage then passed to the National Trust for Scotland, who have looked after it ever since.
Souter Johnnie's cottage is distinguished by its thatched roof: other cottages that were originally thatched have since been slated. The entrance is around the back, and this gives access to a nice recreation of village life at the end of the 1700s.
One room at the back of the cottage is given over to the souter's workshop, complete with fire and all the tools needed for shoemaking. At the other end of the cottage is a room recreating aspects of the parlour, with a large dresser and fire, and bedroom, complete with box beds along one wall.
In the attractive garden behind the cottage is a restored thatched alehouse. This is home to beautiful life-size statues of Tam o' Shanter, Souter Johnnie, the Innkeeper and the Innkeeper's Wife from the poem Tam o' Shanter. These were carved in sandstone in the 1830s by the sculptor James Thom and purchased by the committee overseeing the restoration of the cottage in 1924. They were originally placed in the garden of the cottage, but have since been given a home more likely to protect them from the elements.
Open April to September, Friday - Tuesday, 11.30am to 5pm
Admission price applies to non NTS members - become a member when you visit!
