Frequently asked Questions

What is Crofting?

After the clearances 2 centuries ago it was decided that tenants of the land would be given security, so the land was parcelled of into small areas, the size of which was deemed to be big enough to support a family, typically this was 4 to 10 acres. The tenant to this day enjoys many rights over the land and part of the rights is that the tenancy can be transferred within the family. Consequently very few crofts are available to people from outside the area. In recent years sheep have been the main product of this area, however there is a move into cattle and the Highland breed with its heavy coat, large horns and a beautiful face is a popular breed.

Why is it called Stone Ewe Croft

We owned a handcraft shop in Lancashire and we sold these concrete sheep. As the croft had no local name and 23 Midtown does not really describe the croft. Stone Ewe Croft seemed appropriate, as sheep are the main product from crofts in this area.

How far is it to Inverasdale?

One of the easiest ways from London is by Easyjet to Inverness and hire car (Total 3 hours)

Yes it is a long way but remember it is worth it and after Carlisle traffic gets less and less, particularly the last 4 hours of the journey and the scenery is so spectacular that you forget everything. Out of season the only thing likely to hold you up is deer on the road. If you have time on your hand many people break the journey and spend a night near Perth or stay with friends they haven't seen for years.

When is the best time to come?

Most people visit during the school holiday periods, but some of best times are out of these times. Winter can be spectacular with the cold frosty days when you can see the Islands so clearly you feel you can reach out and touch them. At night you will see a night sky that is not affected by pollution and millions of stars are visible. If you are really lucky you might see the Northern Lights dancing across the sky in waves of coloured light.

Spring often brings some of the nicest weather and it is as though nature has woken up. Plants and trees grow rapidly as the ground warms up and the periods of daylight increase until the summer solstice when it hardly goes dark. The bird life increases and the annual visit of the Lapwings for nesting takes place. These birds fly the most wonderful aerobatics chasing off predators, they vanish as quickly as they come, to be replaced by the swallows

Autumn bring the changes in colour associated with winter. September can be glorious with the start of night frosts and occasionally the first dusting of snow on the high tops

What is the weather like?

On the whole we get the same sort of weather as England and Wales. The weather forecasts are often wrong as the mountains around us create their own weather. It is said that Scotland can get the three seasons in a day -Sun - Rain and Hail or Snow. So it might rain in the morning but be glorious in the afternoon you would be very unlucky to have rain all week

Winter, while cold does not get as bad as the east coast due to the warm Gulf Stream that flows past the West Coast. Yes, high up the mountains get the snow giving spectacular views. Two or three times a year we get a covering, but normally it is not a problem. Sudden snowfalls create difficulties on the roads but in Scotland the gritters generally are efficient at clearing the road

What sort of clothing do I need?

We will send you a suggested list if you book, but a reasonable set of waterproof jacket and trousers won't be wasted. Not just to keep you dry, but in windy conditions they will keep you warm. Some reasonably stout walking shoes and if you do stay at the croft some wellington boots.
If you are not used to being outside then bring plenty of warm clothing.

What are Midges?

Midges are associated with Scotland but they are found in Northern England just as much. They are little flying creatures that give you a small bite and are around from June to late September. Some years they are worse than others are. A breeze tends to make them dive for cover. Being near the sea it is rare for there to be no breeze. The windless, rainy weather is when they are out and about. You can buy lotions to keep them away. Local treatments are based on whisky and garlic. Or adopt the barrier method and buy a midge hood, which is similar to a bee keepers hat.

How safe are the animals we have on the croft?

Very safe. Generally they do not roam free in the areas you have access to, there are fences (wire and electric) keeping them in the fields. If you want to help feed or just be around when we tend to them you are most welcome. At certain times of the year we have to shear sheep, groom the ponies and give various medicines so if you are interested you are welcome to join in.

Is it safe for children?

It is a wonderful place for children who can act reasonable responsibly. As a working Croft there are dangers around e.g. the animals, dry stone walls, and the stream running through the land. Over the last couple of years children of all ages have had a fantastic time getting involved with feeding the animals - as you will see when you read the comments in the visitors book.

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© Copyright Richard Holmes
Revised: 7 January, 2007