The Loft
Tucked away behind the Shore Inn and the Boatshed (where traditional boatbuilding skills are taught) is a small listed T-shaped building dating from about 1750, with a slate roof, thick, harled stone walls and crow-stepped gables. Right at the back of this building, outside steps lead up the rear gable to Harbour Loft.
The photos here show the living room before the wood-burning stove was installed (electric one shown). The flooring has also been renewed. Many of the furnishings, pictures, kitchen utensils etc. may be available. |
The living room
The front door leads straight into the living room/kitchen, which has two windows and a fireplace. The floor (different now from in photos) is laminate.
The kitchen area is small but functional. It has a large fridge freezer and electric hob and oven.
Smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and heat detectors are fitted according to regulations. The electrics in the flat were renewed a few years ago and have been regularly checked since by a qualified electrician.
|
The bedrooms
There are two double bedrooms, both overlooking Church Street and the buildings of the old harbour. Both bedrooms have fitted, curtained recesses for hanging clothes with a shelf above.
The boring stuff
A good washing machine is located in the walk-in cupboard. There is an extending washing line in the courtyard.
Heating is by a wood-burning stove in the living room and Q-RAD radiators in the living room and bedrooms. These are very efficient and responsive and provide instant warmth whenever you want it. They can be programmed to switch on and off using a simple digital menu on each radiator, which also allows you to adjust the room temperature to within 1 degree. There is an electric towel rail heater (programmable) in the bathroom.
|
Outside
Driveway
The driveway to the side of the building belongs exclusively to the flat (not shared with the downstairs flat), and is gated. The downstairs neighbour has right of access via the driveway and part of the courtyard to their garden between the courtyard and the upper, 'secret' garden.
The Courtyard
The Secret GardenThere is a long, high flight of steps leading up from the courtyard to the Secret Garden. The steps are very old and are uneven and steep, with some shallow steps and high risers, and so you need to be reasonably fit to attempt them. They are not suitable for those with mobility problems or for small children. Care must be taken! Oxygen may be required!
But it is worth the climb...
The current tenant has been very busy in the garden and it now contains a greenhouse and various other features not shown in the photos.
|
High stone walls enclose the garden on three sides, giving it a private, secluded feel, but the fourth side (made safe by a wooden fence) offers wonderful views across the rooftops of the oldest parts of Portsoy and over the harbour to the sea. Bushes and long grass provide wildlife habitats, but there is a mown path all the way round and an area of short grass with a picnic table and plenty of room to set out loungers. There is a small stone shed in the corner. The garden enjoys the sun all day (weather permitting!).
Dolphins can sometimes be spotted from here!
|