Moat Brae, nestled in the charming town of Dumfries, Scotland, is a beacon of literary inspiration and architectural elegance. This Georgian townhouse, designed by the renowned architect Walter Newall, stands as a testament to the Greek revival style that flourished in the early 19th century. But beyond its architectural allure, Moat Brae holds a special place in the hearts of literature enthusiasts as the enchanting garden where J.M. Barrie, the creator of Peter Pan, found the spark for his timeless tale.
Constructed in 1823, Moat Brae is a medium-scale villa that exudes the grace and symmetry characteristic of the Greek revival style. With its polished red ashlar facade, the house rises majestically to two storeys, complemented by a raised basement and extending across five bays. The slate roof, adorned with corniced end stacks, adds to its stately appearance.
The front elevation of Moat Brae is particularly striking, featuring a central pedimented Doric porch accessible via flyover steps. The adjoining spearheaded cast-iron railings add a touch of elegance, while the 12-pane sash windows, trimmed in apron-style moulding, allow natural light to flood the interiors. Inside, visitors are greeted by a square central hall with a circular first-floor gallery and a domed glass roof, showcasing Newall's architectural prowess.
Moat Brae's journey through history is as captivating as the stories it inspired. Originally a private residence, the house changed hands several times until 1914 when it became a nursing home under the Royal Scottish Nursing Home Institution. For decades, it served as a place of care and healing, until its closure in 1997.
The house faced uncertainty in the early 2000s, with plans to transform it into a hotel falling through. In 2008, the building was saved from demolition by the Peter Pan Moat Brae Trust, a group dedicated to preserving its legacy and transforming it into a centre for children's literature.
Scavenger hunts in Dumfries
Discover Dumfries with the digital Scavenger Hunt from myCityHunt! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Dumfries with your team!
For fans of J.M. Barrie, Moat Brae holds a special allure. It was here, in the garden of this Georgian villa, that Barrie and his friends embarked on imaginative adventures that would later inspire the magical world of Neverland. Barrie himself acknowledged the garden's influence, describing it as an enchanted land that fueled his creativity.
In 2019, Moat Brae was reborn as Peter Pan's Enchanted Land and the National Centre for Children's Literature and Storytelling. This transformation was made possible through the dedication of the Peter Pan Moat Brae Trust, which raised over £6 million to restore the house and garden. The centre became a vibrant hub for storytelling, inspiring new generations of young readers and writers.
Visitors to Moat Brae are invited to step into a world where imagination knows no bounds. The house and gardens offer a delightful escape, with interactive exhibits and storytelling sessions that bring the magic of Peter Pan to life. The library of the Arthur Ransome Society, housed within Moat Brae, is a treasure trove for literary enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the works of another beloved children's author.
The gardens, where Barrie once played, have been lovingly restored, providing a serene backdrop for exploration and play. Whether you're a fan of Peter Pan or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the gardens offer a space to dream and discover.
Despite its recent closure due to financial difficulties, the legacy of Moat Brae endures. The efforts of the Peter Pan Moat Brae Trust and the support of various funding bodies ensured that this historic site was preserved for future generations to enjoy. As Dumfries and Galloway Council and other grantors seek to recover funds, the hope remains that Moat Brae will once again open its doors to the public.
Moat Brae is more than just a house; it is a symbol of creativity and the enduring power of storytelling. Its walls echo with the laughter of children and the whispers of dreams, inviting all who visit to embark on their own adventures. Whether you're drawn by its literary heritage or its architectural beauty, Moat Brae promises an experience that is both enchanting and unforgettable.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.