Monreith House and Estate — Monreith House and Estate

Historical Note - The Maxwell Family The Maxwell family is a historically significant Scottish lineage, with origins dating back to the 12th century. The family held various estates and titles, including the barony of Caerlaverock. Members of the Monreith branch have been involved in political, military and literary spheres. Notable individuals include Sir Herbert Maxwell, a Member of Parliament and author, and Gavin Maxwell, a naturalist and writer known for Ring of Bright Water. Monreith House and Estate reflect the architectural, horticultural and familial history of the region and remain associated with the Maxwell family’s legacy. Monreith House and Estate Monreith Estate extends to approximately 132.87 hectares (328.32 acres) with Monreith House and the White Loch of Myrton at its heart. The surrounding (and off-lying) woodlands provide amenity, shelter and privacy for the mansion house, as well as a source of income and firewood. Monreith House is a Georgian mansion listed as Category A for its architectural and historical importance. It was commissioned in 1791 by Sir William Maxwell, 4th Baronet, and designed by Alexander Stevens, replacing the earlier Myrton Castle, parts of which were reused in the construction. The house is a three-storey classical structure with a part-sunk basement and a five-bay rectangular plan. The garden elevation features a full-height bowed bay, and in 1821, a Greek Doric porch was added by Sir Robert Smirke, incorporating paired fluted columns and a tripartite doorway with a six-pane fanlight. A single-storey wing was added in 1878, and the house is accompanied by an 18th century office court and courtyard walls. The interior includes 19th century decorative features, such as gilded friezes, plasterwork and tapestries. In the entrance hall, 18th century floral appliqué work – believed to have originally served as carpeting in Myrton Castle – was repurposed by Lady Magdalene Maxwell. The surrounding gardens are included in the In