Meikleour Arms

Hotel review

A bright and glittering gem in the generally rather dreary utilitarian world of Scottish ‘pub’ hospitality. The Meikleour Arms manages very successfully to retain its authenticity and sense of place (rural Perthshire) whilst recently having undergone a dramatic and sophisticated makeover by the young and dynamic local Laird and his interior-designer wife. French toile and classic ticking are mixed with carefully selected ‘shabby chic’ furnishings, imaginative lighting, period art and antiques and various contemporary touches, all set against a backdrop of perfectly chosen Farrow & Ball colours, wooden floors and coir matting. There are countless inspired design details – the traditional tongue and groove panelling in the pub loos downstairs is duck-egg painted and framed in hot pink. It works brilliantly! Bedlinens are of the best thread-count, the throws by Blanc Cocoon are baby-soft anti-allergenic silk and wool, and the ensuite bathrooms are modern warm and spacious. There are currently 11 bedrooms within the hotel and 5 cottages in the village and on Meikleour Estate itself – a short walk away (there are plans for more to open next year). Some of the downstairs bedrooms are ‘dog friendly’ (steam cleaned after every canine occupant). The Estate ‘annexes’ have a self-catering option, although guests are encouraged to spoil themselves with the Meikleour Arms full Scottish breakfast and dinner is also highly recommended. There is an excellent resident chef producing classic favourites, along with lots of local specialties and home-grown produce such venison and seasonal game. This atmospheric little bolt hole well deserves its accolade of 2019 Pub of the Year and AA Rosette. The bar is always lively and full of fishing parties, locals and hotel guests. There is a lovely private dining room for birthdays and events which seats up to 12. A great place to come for a romantic weekend and why not try your hand at fishing on the mighty River Tay, one of Scotland’s foremost salmon rivers. An immaculate traditional clinker-built boat and professional ghillie can be arranged from £150.

Caroline Townsend Review published: 08/02/2019