About Dumfries House

Dumfries House, headquarters of The King’s Foundation, is a historic 18th-century house and 2,000-acre estate, saved for the nation by King Charles III in 2007.

A historic treasure preserved

Originally built as a home for the 5th Earl of Dumfries in the 1700s, the House and its contents – including its significant Chippendale furniture collection – were saved for the nation by King Charles III as Prince of Wales in 2007.

The House and its adjoining estate have been restored and developed, and now serve as headquarters of The King’s Foundation charity.

Our history About the 18th-century House

“When Dumfries House’s desperate situation first came to my attention, I knew that we had to do something to prevent a priceless treasure being lost forever to save the house and its content for the nation. We have reinvigorated this unique 18th-century house through meticulous conservation and restoration, led by an expert team comprising some of the best conservators, historians and researchers in the country.”

His Majesty King Charles III, speaking as the Prince of Wales

A last–minute save

Dumfries House was a family home until 1993, when it ceased to be a primary residence for the Bute family. The House and its contents were then offered for sale at auction in July 2007.

However, a consortium led by the then Prince of Wales succeeded in purchasing the house and its contents. In doing so, His Majesty ensured a hugely significant heritage asset could remain in Scotland for the benefit of the nation and local community.

A community regenerated

Dumfries House has become a catalyst for regeneration of the local area, which was affected by the demise of the coal mining industry.

Now a major local employer and education campus, the estate provides employment opportunities for hundreds of people in East Ayrshire. We also welcome 10,000 students every year to our multiple education centres, providing inspiration and new connections through nature for young people.

“Dumfries House is such a big part of my life. To me, the brilliant community programmes are less about learning skills and more about the social benefits, having a natter over a cup of tea and creating friendships that stretch beyond our weekly get-togethers.”

Reece Wilkie, from Cumnock, who has attended our weekly Sewing Bee sessions as well as our fortnightly Knitwise group.

A transformative natural landscape

Dumfries House estate is open all year round, giving visitors from far and wide the opportunity to benefit from the great outdoors.

We also offer nature-inspired education and training courses for learners of all ages across food and farming, fashion and textiles, traditional crafts, and hospitality.

Study with us