The History of Cardy Net House

The Factory was built at Lower Largo on the South Coast of Fife in 1867 by David Gillies , a descendant of Alexander Selkirk who spent 5 years as a castaway on a Pacific Island and became the inspiration for Daniel Defoe’s ‘Robinson Crusoe’.

David Gillies was a true Victorian entrepreneur. He set up the factory to make nets for the herring industry booming around this time. His nets were sold all over Britain. He employed nearly 30 women and was quickly wealthy enough to build an impressive villa, Cardy House, just above the Net Factory. The factory itself was closed only 15 years later.

Mike and Liz Rolland have reopened the factory for the first time in 120 years, retaining the large bright open qualities. It is now a luxurious contemporary home ideal for a large family or group of friends.