The Burn

The Burn is a large late Georgian mansion built in 1791, with substantial extensions and alterations made around 1805 and again after 1814, and further changes in the 20th century. The original south front is symmetrical, featuring five windows and a slightly projecting central three-bay section which was formerly topped with a pediment containing a roundel. A large, bowed projection was added to the ground floor on either side of the central window. The flanking wings are long and asymmetrical; the west wing has a three-window south block with a central bay that projects, incorporating a single-story porte cochere supported by Roman Doric columns and topped with a parapet (originally a balustrade). Ground floor windows on the outer edges are arched to align with the tripartite windows above. A long service wing, now raised to two-storeys and an attic, connects to a stable block forming a north courtyard. The north front of the stable block is symmetrical and features a columned cupola. The windows are generally 12-pane sashes, with a few alterations. The building was significantly modernised in 1936, and further alterations have since been carried out. A notable feature is the central hall, extending through two storeys, which has a fine ceiling in a late Adam style.

The Burn was originally built for Lord Alan Gordon. Following his death, it was purchased by Mr Brodie of Arnhall, who made alterations and extensions. In 1814, it was sold to Mr John Shand, who further altered and extended the property. Major William McInroy purchased the mansion in 1836. It is now used as a residential conference centre. An illustration of the building prior to the 1936 alterations can be found in Cameron’s “Fettercairn.”