Southern Cross Ranch

Southern Cross Ranch

1670 Bethany Church Rd, Madison, GA 30650-5012
Traveller (401)
Media Room
Room & Suite (39)
Pool & Beach (24)

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Avg. R 4,135 /night, 11/8 - 11/9
R 4,972
per night
R 3,777
per night
R 2,582
per night

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About

5.0
#1 of 3 B&Bs in Madison
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.6 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.7 of 5 bubbles
Value
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.7 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
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Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
3.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Family
Mid-range
Languages Spoken
English, German
Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Free breakfast
Bicycles available
Game room
Books, DVDs, music for children
Children's television networks
Wifi
Pool / beach towels
Outdoor pool
Heated pool
Saltwater pool
Shallow end in pool
Fence around pool
Restaurant
Complimentary tea
Kid-friendly buffet
Outdoor dining area
Hiking
Horseback riding
Billiards
Darts
Fishing
Patio
Board games / puzzles
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Kids' outdoor play equipment
Meeting rooms
Gift shop
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Shared lounge / TV area
Sun deck
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
Sun umbrellas
First aid kit
Umbrella
Clothes dryer
Self-serve laundry
Washing machine
Room features
Air conditioning
Fireplace
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Cable / satellite TV
Flatscreen TV
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Seating area
Sofa
Telephone
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Hair dryer
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
316Reviews8Q+A75Room tips
Traveller rating
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Detailed Reviews
Family4Tripper wrote a review May 2020
Sandy Springs, Georgia
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We just returned from several days at the ranch (our 6th? 7th? stay). While we were hesitant to leave our homes, the governor had lifted the stay at home, we wanted to celebrate a special occasion and we trusted the Ranch to take care of us. Well, it exceeded our expectations! Everything was super clean and the housekeeping staff was frequently seen disinfecting surfaces. In room housekeeping was suspended except as requested to limit contact in your personal space (that was my preference anyway). The dining staff took great precautions to limit contact (and the food was amazing as always!!!). The dining staff as usual did an excellent job of accommodating our dietary needs. The barn was handled professionally as always. So even though the inside (and exterior surfaces) was impeccably maintained, you spend your time at the Ranch outside anyway. Except for sleeping and the choice of inside dining, we were outside enjoying the beautiful weather and property. Lots of fresh air and space. We honestly felt safer at the Ranch than we feel going to the grocery store at home. If you are considering a getaway, don't hesitate to visit Southern Cross Ranch. You will be glad you did!!
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Date of stay: May 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Noel D, Manager at Southern Cross Ranch
Responded 26 May 2020
Thank you for sharing your experience. We are delighted that you had such a great time. We have, in fact, suspended mid-stay housekeeping to prevent any cross contamination between rooms and guests. This is just one of the many, many changes we've implemented to keep both guests and staff safe. Thank you for your vote of confidence, its very much appreciated by our family and our team members in these crazy times!!!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
pasmack wrote a review Dec 2020
Durham NC
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Travel and Leisure's nomination of Southern Cross Ranch as one of America's top Dude Ranches is well deserved. In fact, I can't imagine it as anything other than THE top.

First, the riding. As others have noted, the horses are splendid, healthy and sound. Often, I have found horses offered on trail rides to be either brain-dead or barely trained and in questionable health. Not the case here.
Because their horses are so sound, guests with some riding experience can go on the trails without a guide, which I did with my (adult) children yesterday. The trails meander though woods and must be pleasant at any time of year, including early winter. And 2 hours of riding twice a day is quite a treat.

I have encountered plenty of grumpy or disinterested barn staff and trail guides in my time-- but not here! The barn staff work patiently and efficiently together to get everyone safely saddled up ( girth check just before ride and also one hour into the ride). The folks at Southern Cross are pros and enjoy sharing their knowledge.

The lodging feels like a large BnB, homey, but very professionally run at the same time. Bedrooms are clean, comfortable, inviting and charming. Nice touches like coffee ready at 6 am in the kitchen for early risers, and snacks for when after a long ride you just can't wait 30 minutes for dinner made my day. Also very thoughtful, especially for families with young children, is the availability of items like sunscreen, bug spray, etc in a kitchen cabinet. Such a nice change from chain hotels that charge you a couple of dollars for a single band aid!

This ranch is family run, and the service is outstanding. From the folks at the stables to those in the kitchen, pleasantness, kindness and patience prevails. Meals are good and varied, served in a socially distanced manner in the bright and airy dining room.

These 4 days at Southern Cross Ranch were a much welcomed relief from the pressures of home and work. We are sure to return.
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Date of stay: December 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mary k wrote a review Dec 2020
5.0 of 5 bubbles
My friends and I had a lovely three day visit. The ranch is gorgeous and the grounds/guesthouses were tastefully decorated for Christmas. Meals were outstanding and Chef Will was engaging-even sharing his recipes. Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks were available 24/7, which is a nice extra. The social distancing and sanitation rules were clearly explained and enforced, And for the duration of our stay, we felt buffered from the pandemic anxiety.

Our group had a diverse level of riding experience and the horses/trail rides were enjoyed by all. Thank you to the owners/staff for the many things they did to make our riding holiday memorable.

The day we were unable to ride due to weather was spent in the charming town of Madison. If you are able to visit, don't miss Heritage Hall (with Rogers House and Rose Cottage) and the Antique Sweets. A second day exploring the town would have been welcomed, had time permitted.
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Date of stay: December 2020
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anabel D wrote a review Jun 2021
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Pros: Plenty of horses visible from all over the ranch
GREAT food
Brushing / bonding with horses
Can spend as much time with horses as you want
Plenty of wildlife on trails, we saw baby deers & turtles
Biking

CONS:
0 WiFi capability. I mean it. Zero and in an area with bad service.
Dirty tables
Animal hairs on blanket in room
Soap and shampoo dispensers were low/empty
Trotting & galloping is advertised but not allowed. Trail rides are nose to butt in single file line
Hot tub advertised… I didn’t see it
Little to no instructions on getting your horse ready to ride
Bring bug spray for trails
No complimentary water, had to go to dining room every time we were thirsty.
Decorations in room were very very dated and overall not worth the upgrade we paid for.

OVERALL: go for the horses, skip the B&B stay. I wouldn’t normally be so harsh, but over 1,000 for animal hairs on my blanket? Prices need to be lowered to Match value.
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Date of stay: June 2021Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from scr ranch, Owner at Southern Cross Ranch
Responded 02 Dec 2022
We are truly disappointed your stay didn't meet your expectations. We can't specifically speak to some of the subjective points, but early 2021 was a particularly challenging period in the hospitality sector with staffing and pandemic related matters. We can however offer to clarify some other points for others. Indeed, we do NOT have a hot tub and are not aware of it being included in any advertisements or listings we have control over. We do, however, have wifi, and its utilized by guests, staff and various devices (room locks, time clocks, etc). There may have been a temporary internet outage from our ISP. All guests are also welcome to enjoy unlimited complimentary beverages 24 hours per day like soft drinks, tea, lemonade, powerade, and water. Pets are not permitted in any guest rooms, but we'll share this information with housekeeping. Finally, many guests do trot and canter on their rides, but if its raining or slippery we may be limited to a walk for safety. If this is the case, each guest has the choice to ride and make the best of it or get a refund. The trails are not really wide enough to ride 2 or 3 wide so its pretty natural that rides follow each other, which naturally is head to tail. Our groups are small, however, with only 2-7 riders each. Thank you for sharing!
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Walter H wrote a review May 2021
3.0 of 5 bubbles
While we enjoy riding at Southern Cross Ranch, we believe the staff can improve on helping the guests to enjoy the experience. The horses, barn, trails, and pastures are in very good condition; no concerns at all about how the horses are treated.

But a new visitor doesn’t get any kind of orientation about the process — no instructions on how to get their horse, how to groom the horse, how to tack up the horse. We’ve ridden there often enough that we can help newbies. But that should be the job of the staff, not other guests. New riders don’t get any instruction on the basics like how to hold the reins, how to get the horse to go forward, how to turn, etc. Yes, it’s nose-to-tail trail riding. But the riders and horses will have a more successful trip with some basic tips before getting under way. The staff seem pleasant enough when asked a question, but no one seems to volunteer information — or even a welcoming greeting.

We’ve stayed overnight in the past, and we do not feel the need to do it again. The rooms are just OK; same with the food. We’re fortunate to live within 90 minutes, so we can go just to get some saddle time.

If you want to ride and you have a basic idea of what you’re doing, Southern Cross Ranch is a good option for you. Otherwise, try another place.
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Date of stay: May 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Noel D, Owner at Southern Cross Ranch
Responded 29 May 2021
Hello Walter, We're delighted you enjoy the horses and riding at Southern Cross and appreciate the quality and continuous care provided to them. Home to over 100 horses, we've been raising them for 40 years and welcoming riders for approximately the last 30 years. We do in fact provide guidance and instruction to our riders. We estimate there been a few 100,000 rides taken by our guests over the past 30 years. What you describe, however, is consistent with a new guest waiting (not so patiently) for our staff members to work their way to them as we work with each rider one at time. We take our time and new guests sometimes are just anxious to get started too. As for tacking up itself, we do this ourselves to ensure safety and do not instruct the guests on this critical step. Our records indicate it has been 14 years since you last stayed overnight with us. We make improvements every year and a lot has changed in the past 14 years, including significant improvements to the rooms and dining service. We invite you to consider staying with us again in the future to fully experience the natural beauty, mares and newborn foals, relaxation, and complementary soft drinks, snacks, bikes, and overall immersion in the scenery of horses grazing in all directions that only a stay can provide. Its not uncommon at all to witness guests, adults and children alike, actually crying at checkout as they simply don't want to leave. Happy Trails!
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tak100601 wrote a review Apr 2020
Jacksonville, Florida
5.0 of 5 bubbles
My husband and I had talked about vacationing at a dude ranch for a few years now. We finally had the oportunity and while reading other reviews of Southern Cross Guest Ranch, decided this was the place.

We had the best experience from start to end, starting with speaking with Karen to describe the rooms and the ranch/guest house to Ingrid and Will in the dining hall. and Lance, Wes and Abby with the horses and trail guides.

Reception: Karen was wonderful, she greeted us and showed us a couple of rooms that we could choose from, as well as showed us around the guest house. There are several gathering rooms that you can hang out in to read a book, play games or work on a jigsaw puzzle or just hangout by the pool.

We choose the Scarlet O'Hara room, and loved it! It was spacious, clean and very comfortable. It featured a king size bed, oversized chair, super comfy sofa for watching tv, plenty of storage and large bathroom.

Dining: One of the best surprises was the food. It was amazing! And, it wasn't just hamburgers, hot dogs and ribs. Each night we had something different, from steaks to spaghetti to fish to yes, wings and ribs. And lunches, they were hearty and again, such a great variety of meals.

Guides and Horses: We've only been horseback riding 2 times, so we are still beginners. Lance sets you up with a horse he feels is the best match, and he hit it on the nail with both mine and my husband's. But this wasn't just about riding, we also got to bond with our horse by brushing them before and after our walk. I was fortunate enough to get Sailor, he was so gentle and awesome.

The guest house is a quarter mile walk to the barn and horses, which we would do 3 - 4 times a day. We loved being able to walk to the stables and seeing the horses, including 3 foals - too cute!

This was by far our most relaxing vacation and we were never board. We will definitely be back.
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Date of stay: April 2020
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jackie wrote a review Oct 2021
Tennessee
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This was a first for my husband and I. The ranch had everything you need for a getaway if you like riding horses at your own pace. The staff was wonderful at the bed and breakfast and the at the stables. Food was wonderful for all 3 meals. Compliments to the chef. We did the all inclusive package so all meals were included and there were snacks and non alcoholic drinks available 24/7. It rained everyday we were there and only got 2 of the 6 horse back rides in but they discounted our stay. We visited a few places while enjoying our down time in towns around B&B ranch. They also have bikes to ride.
Spending time with the horses anytime you like was a bonus for us. We took plenty of apples, carrots, and mints for the horses.
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Date of stay: October 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Bring rain gear with rain boots, you can ride during the rain and still enjoy horseback riding. ...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rainbowtant wrote a review Apr 2021
Irvine, California
5.0 of 5 bubbles
First experience of this kind for entire family. so much natural beauty - expansive pastures, many horses around, roaming and relaxing on pastures - wonderful to see them having that freedom. the rides - great to be involved in the whole process. rides can be a bit nerve wracking (at least for me) to navigate between trees, over streams, up and down some tiny hills. on our ride we had 2 horses that didn't seem to listen easily, but it was all good.

i really appreciate on checking out, that the riding fee for my son was taken off because he was too scared to go. thoughtful that they noted that and communicated that to billing. the food tasted home made and was pretty good. Ingrid was so nice and thoughtful to try to take care of our vegetarian diets, and she did her best. what would really elevate the experience for us would be to have more hearty and healthy vegetarian options.

Overall, many enduring memories for our family. fun in game room, with other kids and horses.
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Date of stay: March 2021
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
4.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Holly O wrote a review Jan 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
My daughter and I went to the ranch for the morning ride and lunch (did not stay the night) with some friends before Christmas break ended and school started. It was a frigid 29 degrees when we arrived at 9:30 AM (for the 9:45 ride). The barn was stirring with activity: stall cleaners, ferrier, feeding, and ride prep. There were heaters blowing and many of the horses were blanketed. Per our usual visits, we brought lots of treats (carrots, apples, and even candy canes...horses love peppermints) to share with the horses both in the barn and in the pasture. It was a smaller riding group than we are normally paired with, but all of us were experienced riders. Jerri was our guide, and she was simply awesome. So engaging, told great stories, catered to our skill sets, and encouraged the horses and the riders to "play" and "have fun". We trail rode, trotted, and cantered for the full two hour ride. Besides our fingertips and toes, there was no time to get cold. We were working! It was the best guided experience we have had to date! And let's not forget their delicious homemade meals. Our lunch was terrific: grilled salmon, French dip sandwiches (with au ju), veggie egg rolls, grilled vegetables, salad, and handmade, homemade ice cream (along with various other desserts). Can't wait to go back!
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Date of stay: January 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled with friends
Room Tip: Take a look at the weather so that you can dress appropriately (rain jackets, gloves, hats, etc)!
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Southern Cross Guest Ranch, Innkeeper at Southern Cross Ranch
Responded 14 Jan 2024
Hi Holly! I'm so happy to hear that you and your group had a wonderful ride with Jerri, aka Montana J. The food was incredible that day and I'm happy that you enjoyed it. I will share your comments with Jerri & Chef Will. Happy New Year! We will hopefully see you soon. Kind regards, Karen.
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valerie m wrote a review Nov 2021
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I have been here several times over the years. sometimes just to ride and other times I have stayed for the weekend. I have always enjoyed both. during the ride you can do more than walk and once they have watched you for an hour you can go out on your own. I will say the riding area is somewhat limited esp when you do go on your own as they do not want you to cross the creek etc. without accompaniment. The accommodations are more than adequate and the food is respectable, plenty and varied. You can pet all the horses and give most of them treats. I have also rode bikes on the road and felt safe doing so. We hiked at hard labor creek park nearby. otherwise there are plenty of indoor games and board games to stay busy. I really did not use the pool, but looks ok.
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Date of stay: October 2021
4.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
4.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
…
Answer from Megan F
1 contribution1 helpful vote
Most guests come to ride, which is our main activity, however some guests take an afternoon off to relax poolside, or head into Madison for sightseeing and shopping. Check out our website and the page of local attractions which will fill you in on all of the nearby things to do.
Answer from Jan S
Marietta, Georgia14 contributions
You can bring your own horse. They are stabled away from the horses that other guests ride, so no one will try to ride yours. Call and ask. They are very helpful!
Answer from Southern Cross R
7 contributions1 helpful vote
I know its late, but in case anybody else has the same question here is the best answer. The All-inclusive plan includes all the rides 2x daily. You can book a non-riding plan and simply add whatever rides you would like to do. However, the AI plan is a special package with added value. In general, if you want to ride half the time or more, it is most cost effective to book the AI plan. Not only can you then ride as much as you want without affecting the price, you don't have to decide which rides to book in advance. Frankly, you don't have to do all the rides to still realize the value of the AI plan. Most guests do not ride all of the rides. On longer stays, the value of all the rides included alone would exceed the cost of the AI stay.
mycaLee asked a question Nov 2017
Atlanta, Georgia52 contributions31 helpful votes
When staying at the ranch, who should we tip during our stay and how much? Thanks in advance.
Answer from Kimberly S
Atlanta, Georgia15 contributions5 helpful votes
They leave an envelope in the room for tipping. It has a break down of the suggested amounts also. I usually tip, but you don't have to.
horsefriend51 wrote a tip Jul 2024
Atlanta, Georgia2 contributions1 helpful vote
1.0 of 5 bubbles
"Avoid this place. Do not support an unethical business"
Read full review
Stephanie L wrote a tip May 2024
Williamsburg, VA7 contributions1 helpful vote
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Arrive early in the day to take advantage of your horse ride on the arrival date!"
Read full review
Holly O wrote a tip Jan 2024
3 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Take a look at the weather so that you can dress appropriately (rain jackets, gloves, hats, etc)!"
Read full review
Curious40935224736 wrote a tip Jul 2023
2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Pack jeans and closed toe shoes (preferably boots) if you are planning on riding."
Read full review
Eileen19 wrote a tip May 2023
127 contributions10 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Wear sunscreen! Beginners and guests not used to riding 4 hours a day will be sore - stretch before and after each ride."
Read full review
…
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PRICE RANGE
R 2,931 - R 4,135 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
southern cross ranch hotel madison
LOCATION
United StatesGeorgiaMadison
NUMBER OF ROOMS
16
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
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SOUTHERN CROSS RANCH - B&B Reviews & Price Comparison (Madison, GA)

Frequently Asked Questions about Southern Cross Ranch
Which popular attractions are close to Southern Cross Ranch?
Nearby attractions include Steffen Thomas Museum of Art (2.5 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Southern Cross Ranch?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and a pool.
Which room amenities are available at Southern Cross Ranch?
Top room amenities include air conditioning, a flat screen TV, and a fireplace.
What food & drink options are available at Southern Cross Ranch?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and complimentary tea during their stay.
Is parking available at Southern Cross Ranch?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Southern Cross Ranch?
Conveniently located restaurants include Farmview Market, Cracker Barrel, and Captain D's.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Southern Cross Ranch?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Are any cleaning services offered at Southern Cross Ranch?
Yes, self serve laundry and a clothes dryer are offered to guests.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Southern Cross Ranch?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and German.
Are there any historical sites close to Southern Cross Ranch?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Heritage Hall (10.3 km), Rogers House and Rose Cottage (10.3 km), and Bonar Hall (10.2 km).
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