Simon Houison Craufurd

Owner and Director of Craufurdland Estate

Simon has worked managing the family estate in Ayrshire since 2002 and took over the running of the castle on the estate in 2011. During his management the estate has increased its diversified businesses, concentrating mainly on leisure, and tourism. The Laird’s Table opened in summer 2018, the Tree Top Trials high-wire opening 2019, and additional activities added in 2021. He has instigated and kept a strong environmental policy, with solar and wind generation, plus use of biomass, ground-source and water source heating.

Prior to this, Simon worked at Strathclyde University, Dept of Naval Architecture, as a lecturer, and researcher, focused largely on ship safety management, (having previously completed his BEng Hons there). Whilst working at Strathclyde, he also completed a part-time MBA at the Strathclyde Business School

He sits as part of the Ayrshire Leader LAG, in the Tourism Group, and has completed the SE Rural Leadership Program in 2011.

Simon, is married to Adity, a fellow MBA alumni, who is co-director of Craufurdland Ltd. They have two daughters. Outside the estate, is interested in history of the Crawford clan and general Scottish history, and when family commitments allow he enjoys mountain biking and skiing.