Harbour Cottage West, Cove Harbour

Harbour Cottage West comprises two single-storey, gabled cottages, built around 1835 and in the second half of the 19th century, situated on a sloping site at the foot of Cove Harbour pier. The cottages are set at different levels and linked by a low block with a piend roof. They are constructed of sandstone rubble with ashlar dressings and coped skews. The east cottage features an arched opening at the base of its east gable. Both cottages have timber-boarded doors and timber sash and case windows, with slate roofs.

The earlier cottage appears to have been built after the completion of the harbour and access road in 1831, likely as accommodation for the harbour-master. It was not depicted on a harbour survey drawing from 1828, and the location’s difficult access before the road was built suggests a later date for its construction. An arched entrance in the east gable’s base, similar to those found at salt pan houses in Prestwick, has led to speculation regarding its prior use for salt panning, although a store is more likely. The west cottage was not shown on the first edition Ordnance Survey map, but is depicted on the second edition (around 1908). The cottages occupy a prominent position and are currently undergoing restoration. A previous description in Buildings of Scotland was found to be inaccurate. The statutory address is Cove Harbour, Cottages/Store Sheds at Pier.