Plans to open the iconic Ardgowan Estate to the public are set to get back on track

Sir Ludovic Shaw has been busy taking engaged couples on virtual tours to showcase the 18th century iconic mansion house as a very special wedding venue.

Home to the Shaw Stewart family, it underwent a £200,000 refurbishment to open it up to the public.

But the pandemic forced estate staff to postpone the first year of their programme, with special dates such as a murder mystery and a Mother's Day afternoon tea axed.

Now they have turned to online tours as they look to start all over again.

Events manager Lauren Devenney said: "Our virtual wedding tours have been very popular, as we let couples see for themselves what Ardgowan House has to offer.

"It has been a shame that we had to cancel our events.

"They were all very popular and we actually had to add dates.

"But we are looking at how we can rearrange our murder mystery and we are helping couples with finding dates for weddings.

"We are now looking to get back on track safely when government guidelines allow."

Sir Ludovic, 12th baronet, is keen to open up the stately home to the public and unlock the potential of its links with historic figures and royalty like Princess Margaret, the Queen's late sister.

The foundation stone of the house was laid in 1798 and the building was completed just three years later.

Since then it has had many illustrious guests, including Princess Diana,and in recent years Sir Ludovic has been determined to turn it into a first class venue for events and functions.

Two years ago Ardgowan was also the setting for BBC One Agatha Christie drama 'Ordeal By Innocence'.