This idyllic spot could be straight from an Agatha Christie novel! Indeed it has an interesting past and has played its part in the history of Scotland as the location for a meeting between Churchill and General Eisenhower in World War II. It also featured in John Buchan’s 39 Steps – a favourite of mine. Set on its own bay and only a short distance from the pretty village of Portpatrick, this beautiful mansion is stunning and the food award-winning.

“In a highly competitive world, where larger-than-life chefs have egos to fuel, Tony Pierce is quietly modest about his culinary talents. Tony’s heart is at the stove; however after being nominated 5 times; in 2008, in front of an audience of more than 200 chefs, Tony finally got his chance to take a bow when he picked up the top prize at the Scottish Chef Awards.

His passion is classic French cuisine with the best Scottish ingredients. We try to source as much local produce as possible at Knockinaam and our gardener, Diana, assists us with providing a wonderful supply of fresh vegetables, herbs and fruits from our kitchen garden throughout the year.”

Photos ©: Knockinaam & remainder, wendy barrie