Mayor Opens New Self Storage Facility at Larchfield Estate

Friday 22 August 2025

Cutting the ribbon at Tuesday’s ceremony, the Mayor praised the Mackie family’s forward-thinking approach:

“Planning is not easy in the council — we need to protect our heritage, and we need to protect our farmland. During COVID, it was a struggle here at Larchfield Estate with hospitality facilities closed. Our farmers need to think outside the box, to create something new, different, and sustainable. This self-storage facility will keep the land and heritage here hopefully for generations to come.”

A lifeline for heritage under pressure
The UK’s historic estates face mounting challenges, with rising maintenance costs and changing economic conditions putting many at risk of falling into disrepair. Diversification is increasingly vital to keep such assets alive.

For Gavin and Sarah Mackie, owners of Larchfield Estate since 2007, ‘Think Storage’ is the latest in a series of initiatives to sustain the 18th-century property, which is already known as an award-winning wedding, events, and luxury self-catering destination.

“Running a heritage venue is both a privilege and a huge responsibility,” said Sarah Mackie, co-founder of Think Storage. “We’ve spent nearly 20 years working to preserve the Estate, and income from Think Storage will directly support the upkeep of our historic buildings and landscape.”

A modern facility with a local focus
Think Storage offers:
•   Brand new, purpose-built units in a range of sizes
•   24-hour CCTV and secure, phone-operated entry
•   Flexible monthly terms and online booking
•   Carbon neutral operations in line with the Estate’s sustainability commitments
By locating the facility just five miles from Lisburn, the Mackies are also meeting growing local demand for secure storage space, supporting both residents and small businesses in the area.

About Larchfield Estate
Larchfield Estate is a listed country estate set in beautiful countryside, offering weddings, corporate events, and luxury self-catering accommodation. The Estate’s mission is to preserve its heritage buildings and land while ensuring it remains a vibrant part of the local community.

For media enquiries, interviews, or images, please contact:

Sarah Mackie
Think Storage
Email: info@think-storage.co.uk
Phone: 07970030146
Website: www.think-storage.co.uk