The Hotel Guru
Scotland
20 Best Dog Friendly Hotels in Scotland

20 Best Dog Friendly Hotels in Scotland

Scotland is a dream destination for anyone who enjoys spectacular scenery writ large. Outdoors-folk young and old will uncover new adventures with each visit, but what we want to focus on here is the four-legged adventurers in your party. Our guru's have scoured the region and compiled a list of the best dog friendly hotels in the region. They've made their selections based on a number of factors including pet friendly amenities and proximity to some of the best walking country around.

For the Album

Glenapp Castle

Glenapp Castle is every bit the baronial pile, complete with towers and turrets: a family owned, and occupied, castle in the Scottish lowlands, now part-converted into an award-winning country escape. The castle has an impressive collection of antiques and art, and beautiful decorations in every room, it also has a tennis court, a croquet lawn, an impressive restaurant and fishing opportunities. There are four dog friendly rooms, all with direct access to the grounds, and a collection of doggy treats.

For the Views

Airds is an idyllically located, and intimate feeling hotel known for its tranquil views and its restaurant. The hotel sits right beside Loch Linnhe, on the edge of the pretty village of Port Appin, and as well as the loch views in one direction it has mountain views in the other. The hotel has 11 rooms and suites, plus one self-catering cottage. The restaurant feels like an occasion, with a seasonal menu made from locally sourced produce, and there’s an impressive wine list. Dogs are welcome, but if you want your own outside space opt for a Junior Suite.
The Torridon is an elegant country house hotel at the foot of Ben Damph, and on the shore of Loch Torridon. There’s a slew of outdoorsy adventures you could be getting up to as soon as you set foot outside, and inside there are 18 contemporary rooms and suites, a seriously good restaurant and a whisky bar. Dogs are welcome in the ground floor rooms, the stable rooms, and in one of the suites, so there’s plenty of choice.

For a Countryside Escape

Trigony House Hotel was once the hunting and fishing lodge for Closeburn Castle. It's a wonderfully symmetrical building in the heart of the Borders country, which really prides itself on its friendly service and relaxed atmosphere. There are ten rooms, where the focus has been on the really important things, like handsprung mattresses and the finest Egyptian cotton, and a wonderful restaurant known for its locally sourced food — quite a bit of it is from the hotel’s kitchen garden. Dogs are positively welcomed, with extras like dog beds, towels and treats. There’s also four acres of woodland to explore, and a Finnish steam room.
Kilcamb Lodge is a charming country house hotel on the spectacular shores of Loch Sunart, overlooking the loch and the mountains rearing up behind. There are just ten rooms and suites, plus an award-winning restaurant serving fabulous food. The decor is traditional in style, but set against pale walls and big windows, so it feels light and airy. The five bedrooms with direct garden access are dog friendly. Popular with fisher-folk and romantics.

For Walkers and their Dogs

Knockderry House is a Victorian era retreat on the banks of Loch Long, with 15 elegant rooms and suites and wonderful views. There’s lots to do in this part of the world, so we highly recommend this spot to sailors, cyclists, anyone wanting to try a watersport or two, and walkers. It’s also great for dog owners, because there are five dog-friendly rooms, where your canine friends are supplied with towels, treats and more.
The Inn at Loch Tummel is a coaching inn, built in the 19th century, but revived into a stylish, as well as historic property in the heart of Perthshire. Its six rooms have charming, rustic details, and it’s only £15 extra for night to accommodate your dog too — they have a great list of local walks in the incredibly beautiful local area. The cosy bar and restaurant are a welcoming place to come back to.

For Foodies and their Dogs

Knockinaam Lodge is a hunting lodge turned small hotel. Both Churchill and Eisenhower are known to have stayed here, and they probably marvelled at the same unspoiled views of the Scottish coastline from beside a cosy tiled fireplace. They undoubtedly also ate well, and that hasn’t changed either, the lodge has a Michelin star. There are nine rooms, three of which are dog friendly.

For a Rural Retreat

Built in 1810, and surrounded by 20 acres of woodland, Forss House is a fantastic base for a range of outdoor pursuits. You can fish in the grounds, and walk and cycle, of course, and there’s a wonderfully cosy restaurant to come back to, and a lounge specialising in whisky by the fire. There are just 14 rooms and suites, and a good selection of them are dog friendly.

For a City Break

The Dunstane Houses are two stately Victorian townhouses in a quiet corner of Edinburgh’s West End, combined into one 35 room boutique hotel. Just 15 minutes drive from the airport and a short stroll from Haymarket, these rooms are elegant, with decor that references their heritage, but all the facilities you really appreciate in a contemporary hotel room, like Nespresso machines, Vispring beds, Egyptian cotton and Roberts digital radios. There’s also a great bar, with around 70 whiskies, and a restaurant specialising in seasonal Scottish produce. Dogs are welcome in one of the houses, and get a bed, bowl and treats on arrival.
B+B Edinburgh is reminiscent of a private member’s club, a converted Victorian townhouse in Edinburgh’s West End, with pared back, rather masculine elegance and true Scots hospitality. As well as the 27 rooms and suites there’s a resident’s bar and a library with a roaring fire and paintings of former residents. And all the rooms are pet friendly.

For the Whole Family

Even if you didn’t realise Gleneagles is a wonderful grand dame of a resort hotel, you probably know it’s got something to do with golf! It’s got three championship courses, spreading lightly over the stunning Perthshire countryside. Gleneagles also has its own station, an incredible spa, an equestrian school, a falconry centre, clay pigeon shooting, tennis, fishing, pools, a kids’ club and dog training centre. And there’s a choice of places to dine, including Scotland’s only two Michelin-starred restaurant. There are more than 200 rooms and suites, so there’s something suitable for whatever configuration of people and pets you are.
The Auchrannie House Hotel is set on a sprawling estate on the beautiful island of Arran. It has 84 rooms and suites, in a range of shapes and sizes that really does have something to suit most families, plus a great list of activities and facilities that includes a large spa. There’s archery and tennis onsite, and opportunities to cycle, walk, kayak and fish nearby. Dogs are most welcome, and are offered their own fluffy towels and doggy treats at check in.

For Romantics and their Dogs

Prestonfield is a country house hotel set in 23 acres of beautiful, secluded grounds — but just five minutes from the Royal Mile! It sounds impossible, but this warm, wonderfully romantic, and opulently decorated countryside escape, is actually in Edinburgh. Its 23 rooms and suites are decorated with maximalist style and plenty of velvet, and the fine dining restaurant feels equally spoiling and romantic. Kids aren’t allowed, but dogs are.
Cromlix is Andy Murray’s hotel, a beautifully refurbished country house, with elegant interiors and plenty of places to relax by a series of fires. The restaurant is light and bright, with impressive cocktails and food to match — there’s even a menu for dogs, with gourmet dog treats. Surrounding the hotel are 34 acres of grounds and gardens, complete with tennis courts — of course — croquet lawns, and a loch. You can also try archery.

For Pub Dogs

The Meikleour Arms is a cosy pub and excellent restaurant close to the River Tay, which also has a collection of 11 rooms and five cottages to rent. The decor has had a recent make over by the dynamic young local Laird and his wife, an interior designer; they’ve collected some charming vintage pieces and paired them with Farrow & Ball classic ticking and French toile. The downstairs rooms are dog friendly. And the pub and food are award-winning.

For the Mountains

Monachyle Mhor is a chic pick in the heart of spectacular Rob Roy country, close to Loch Lomond and within the Trossachs National Park. Its 14 rooms and suites are decorated in an eclectic and funky way, with contemporary art, design furniture, and cool retro and vintage finds — but from the outside it looks like a country farmhouse. The restaurant is an award-winner, serving the best local produce. Three of the rooms are dog friendly.

For Great Value

Banchory Lodge is a carefully converted Grade II listed Georgian house in a quiet spot in the centre of Banchory, right beside the River Dee. Inside are 28 guest rooms, decorated with a combination of contemporary pieces and vintage, or antique, finds — our favourites (and the dog friendly ones) have private terraces overlooking the river. The hub of the hotel is the bar and restaurant, where you’ll find the same menu, but a choice of ambience. There’s plenty to do from the doorstep too.
The Tobermory Hotel overlooks the Tobermory Harbour, on Mull, and has done since 1869. Today the facade is a distinctive pink, you can see from a distance, and the 11 rooms and suites inside are simply dressed with contemporary details. There’s a restaurant and bar onsite, serving pub food that’s heavy on the seafood. They also have a self-catering cottage that sleeps up to six. Dogs are welcome for a one off charge of £20.

Still not sure where to book?

You could browse our recommendations for all the best places to stay in Scotland
Or refine your search by location, to just the best places to stay in the Highlands and Islands, or the best hotels on the Inner Hebrides, or Outer Hebrides
Or by the kind of accommodation you prefer: so the best pubs with rooms in Scotland, or the best Scottish country escapes
Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
- Trigony House Hotel Dumfriesshire, Dumfries and Galloway 10 rooms from $141
  
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  Country Escape
  Fishing  -  Both trout and salmon fishing close by. A ghillie can be arranged for the day.
  Restaurant  -  Highly regarded rustic cuisine
  Great walks  -  Lovely walks on the doorstep
  
  Country house hotel in the heart of Borders country which prides itself on its relaxed atmosphere and friendly service. The situation is brilliant for outdoorsy types and dogs are positively welcomed! A charming country escape with award winning rustic cuisine. See More
  
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- The Roseate Edinburgh Edinburgh (West End) 35 rooms from $281
  
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  Sights nearby  -  Easy access to all of Edinburgh's top attractions including the Royal Mile, Old Town and Prince's Street
  Restaurant  -  The Dunstane Restaurant & Bar serves fine dining dishes created from seasonal, local ingredients
  Great walks  -  Climb Arthur's seat for a great view over the city and beyond.
  Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors
  Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Fodors, Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  In a peaceful corner of Edinburgh’s West End, a short walk from Haymarket and 15 minutes’ drive from Edinburgh airport, The Roseate is an independent, 5 star, 35-bedroom boutique hotel spread over two stately Victorian townhouses. Smart interiors and great food present the ideal city base. See More
  
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- Knockderry House Argyll & Bute 15 rooms from $141
  
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  Great walks  -  There are a number of stunning local hiking trails to check out or instead you can wander around the Benmore Botanic Garden
  Sailing  -  Head off sailing down the Clyde estuary or venture into a number of nearby lochs
  Back to Nature  -  Spend your days exploring the surrounding area's natural beauty
  Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
  
  The rural Victorian Knockderry House is situated on the banks of Loch Long. This 4*, 2 Rosette Hotel offers a range of smart accommodation with the Master Rooms (featuring four poster beds) especially elegant. Food is divine, made using local produce. Plus a cosy drawing room. A romantic retreat. See More
  
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- Airds Port Appin 11 rooms from $474
  
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  Active Holiday  -  Enjoy horse riding, mountain biking, great walking, climbing and more.
  Local exploring  -  Within 30 mins of the area's top attractions
  Restaurant  -  3 AA Rosettes
  Views  -  Wonderful views down Loch Linnhe and stunning sunsets
  Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Relais & Chateaux, Sawdays
  
  An intimate hotel in a tranquil lochside setting with exceptional food See More
  
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- Knockinaam Lodge Dumfries and Galloway 10 rooms from $365
  
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  Great walks  -  Very close to the hotel begins the coastal Southern Upland Way. Galloway Hills & Glenkens also have excellent walking routes.
  Fishing  -  The hotel has its own fishing equipment. You can catch everything from cod, salmon to dogfish!
  Local markets  -  Art fans will enjoy a visit to Kirkcudbright, otherwise know as the 'Artists Town'.
  Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
  Recommended by  -  Sawdays
  
  Steeped in history, this former hunting lodge has hosted Churchill and Eisenhower. Enjoy unspoilt views of the Scottish coastline from your cosy, warm palleted room, many of which have tiled fireplaces. There are 38 acres to explore and a Michelin star restaurant. Haute cuisine in the highlands! See More
  
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- Kilcamb Lodge Argyll 10 rooms from $314
  
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  Active Holiday  -  With hearty meals and warm fires this is the perfect spot for those taking advantage of West Scotland's outdoor pursuits.
  Back to Nature  -  A stunning country-house in magical surrounds with Loch Sunart at the end of the garden and Glas Bheinn rising beyond.
  Fishing  -  The season runs from 1st June to the 30th September and Salmon, Sea-Trout and Brown Trout can be caught.
  Great walks  -  Simply step out the door and find miles of rugged Scottish countryside awaiting.
  Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays
  
  Charming country hotel with a serene setting on the shores of Loch Sunart. Traditional rooms feature large windows with chintz and tartan fabrics and stunning views. An award winning restaurant uses local produce. Cosy living rooms for post outdoor unwinding. A true country getaway. See More
  
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- Prestonfield Edinburgh (Prestonfield) 23 rooms from $323
  
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  Romantic Break  -  This hotel oozes glammour, romance and seduction, with its wildly opulent canopied beds, rich fabrics and roaring fires.
  Local exploring  -  The best of both worlds- set in 20 acres of spectacular parklands, yet within spitting distance of Edinburgh.
  Great walks  -  Don't forget your welly boots, there are 20 acres of parkland to explore.
  Restrictions on children  -  Adults only
  Recommended by  -  Frommers, Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection
  
  Opulent extravagance at the Prestonfield just 5 mins from the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. Come for attentive service, divine bedrooms and spoiling galore. Fine dining is served in an ultra romantic setting. The concierge have a 'nothing's too much' attitude. Best for a truly indulgent stay. See More
  
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- Gleneagles Hotel Perthshire 233 rooms from $448
  
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  Child friendly  -  Great facilities for children of all ages with organised activities and childcare available.
  Restaurant  -  Andrew Fairlie Restaurant is the only establishment in Scotland with two Michelin stars.
  Other Activities  -  Shooting, fishing, falconry, gun dog training, off road driving to name a few!
  Golf  -  Three championshire courses and PGA National Golf Academy on site.
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection
  
  Luxury grand dame resort hotel in the heart of stunning Perthshire countryside. With three championship golf courses, top notch spa and more activities than you can imagine, this is the perfect resort for all the family. See More
  
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- Forss House Thurso (Caithness) 14 rooms from $127
  
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  Back to Nature  -  A rugged coastline on one side and the inland forests and mountains on the other gives plenty of outdoor space to explore
  Great walks  -  The local coastline and hills make for some excellent walking for both the ambler and the serious walker
  Fishing  -  Both rivers and coastal fishing are accessible from the hotel
  Full of character
  Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide
  
  A charming 1810 country house hotel set in 20 acres of Scottish woodland. The perfect launchpad for all outdoor pursuits particularly walking, shooting and fishing. Spend the evenings with a choice whisky in hand by the fireplace. A great country escape. See More
  
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- The Inn at Loch Tummel Pitlochry 6 rooms from $256
  
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  Sights nearby  -  Looking out on the Queen’s View, salmon jumping the ladder in Pitlochry, to Blair Castle of Clan Murray
  Great walks  -  Allean Forest is a few minutes drive with marked routes and stunning panoramic views
  Local exploring  -  Nature walks, birdwatching, sailing and also many historic sights close by
  Views  -  The Queen's viewing point is minutes away, but the Inn also boasts impressive views of its own
  Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide
  
  Originally a coaching inn from the 1800s, this historic, stylish property offers six ensuite rooms softly furnished in rustic, earthy tones. Wonderful location in the heart of Perthshire. Come for hill walks and stunning views followed by drinks in the cosy bar and locally sourced hearty food. See More
  
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- Meikleour Arms Blairgowrie, Perthshire 11 rooms from $167
  
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  Active Holiday  -  A great base for an active holiday of walking, fishing and horse riding.
  Families  -  The hotel's cottages are a great option for family trips.
  Fishing  -  The Meiklour Arms runs fishing trips on both the Tay and the Isla.
  Sights nearby  -  Take a trip to Scone Palace, the ancient seat of Scottish Kings.
  
  Offering charming cottages and lovely rooms, the Meikleour Arms is a delightful place to stay. Just a short walk from the river Tay, the hotel also features an excellent restaurant and a cosy pub that's a great spot to enjoy a dram. The cottages are perfect for a family holiday. See More
  
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- The Torridon Ross-shire 18 rooms from $282
  
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  Bar  -  Over 300 Malt Whiskies available in the Whisky Bar not forgetting their very own Arcturus Gin and Cushie Doos Tonic.
  Restaurant  -  3 AA Rosettes
  Sailing  -  Sailing tours on S/Y a 13 m sailing yacht both within the loch and to the Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides.
  Sights nearby  -  Boat cruises available off the west coast for dolphins and if you're lucky whale watching.
  Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays
  
  Country escape on the shores of Upper Loch Torridon. 53 acres of park and woodland provide many outdoor activities. Scottish country house opulence twinned with contemporary designs. Seriously good restaurant and whisky bar. See More
  
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- Monachyle Mhor Lochearnhead, Perthshire 14 rooms from $372
  
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  Foodies  -  Inspired and award-winning cuisine, lovingly crafted from fantastic local produce, most of it straight from their own farm.
  Country Escape  -  A charming country house, with a healthy injection of avant-garde interior design, set in 2,000 acres of blissful silence.
  Great walks  -  Endless trials through and around the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.
  Fishing  -  The trout-rich Lochs Voil and Doine are at the bottom of the driveway.
  Recommended by  -  I Escape, Fodors, Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays
  
  A union of rustic warmth and funky sophistication, in the heart of Rob Roy country. Modern rooms with crisp design, modern art and lovely contemporary bathrooms. An award-winning restaurant plus an abundance of outdoor pursuits make this the ideal country escape. Utter heaven! See More
  
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- Glenapp Castle Ayrshire 20 rooms from $378
  
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  Tennis  -  An outdoor tennis court, rackets and balls are all available at the hotel
  Fishing  -  Salmon and trout fishing can be organised from the hotel
  Full of character
  Outstanding location
  Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux
  
  A family owned and occupied baronial castle in the south west of Scotland's historic lowlands. Underneath its fairytale turrets and towers there are oak-panelled rooms, rich fabrics and fine antiques, as well as modern award winning cuisine and impeccable service. The perfect country escape. See More
  
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- Banchory Lodge Banchory 28 rooms from $281
  
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  Romantic Break  -  With its beautifully stylish accommodation, superb food and stunning location, it's perfect for a romantic getaway
  Fishing  -  Fishing on the Dee is some of the finest in Scotland, and there is a beat at the bottom of the garden!
  Local exploring  -  A great base from which to explore Banchory and the surrounding Royal Deeside area.
  Great walks  -  There is superb walking for all abilities and the Deeside Way can be accessed from the hotel's grounds
  
  Overlooking the banks of the river Dee, Banchory Lodge is a true Scottish retreat. Elegant rooms, an atmospheric bar and an excellent restaurant all come together to form a superb hotel. A great spot for keen fisherfolk who can cast a fly from the bottom of the hotel's garden. See More
  
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- Cromlix Nr Dunblane, Stirlingshire 15 rooms from $320
  
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  Country House
  Restaurant  -  Superb food in the Chez Roux conservatory restaurant with open kitchen.
  Fishing  -  Trout fishing in the hotel's loch
  Tennis  -  Two courts on site
  Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels, CN Traveller
  
  This top of the range country house hotel in Dunblane has been refurbished with no expense spared. A low key feel, spiced up by a dash of glamour in the bar and restaurant. Family-friendly with lovely personal touches such as homemade shortbread from Andy's granny. 5-star luxury and 5-star service. See More
  
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- B+B Edinburgh Edinburgh (West End) 27 rooms from $96
  
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  Local exploring  -  With its excellent central location and attractive price tag, B+B Edinburgh makes a great choice for a budget city break
  Less £  -  With double rooms starting from well under £100 per night, B+B Edinburgh is a very affordable option
  Sights nearby  -  The property is a short walk (or bus/tram ride) from Edinburgh highlights including the castle and Royal Mile
  Views  -  Many of the rooms boasts fabulous views over the city
  
  Roomy B&B in Edinburgh's West End. More like a private club or a boutique hotel, awash with Victorian character. Come for the exclusive feel without the exclusive prices and the brilliant central location. See More
  
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- The Tobermory Hotel Tobermory, Mull 11 rooms from $110
  
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  Fishing  -  Fishing trips - both sea and loch - can be arranged by the hotel.
  Great walks  -  Go out to Calgary for a lovely walk along the beach.
  Sea Views  -  From some rooms.
  Full of character
  
  Overlooking Tobermory harbour, The Tobermory Hotel has been running since 1869. With a distinctive pink facade the hotel offers excellent rooms, an atmospheric bar and delicious local cuisine in the restaurant. A great base from which to explore the charms of Mull. See More
  
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- Auchrannie House Hotel Isle of Arran 84 rooms from $127
  
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  Kayaking  -  With it's sheltered coastal waters, stunning scenery and abundant wildlife Arran is a kayaker's paradise
  Secluded setting  -  For escaping.
  Swimming Pool  -  Indoor/outdoor
  Restaurant  -  Recommended.
  
  Set on the beautiful island of Arran over a sprawling estate. Contemporary rooms make for a comfortable stay with plenty of fire lit areas for lounging after an action filled day. A spa, countless activities for adults and children alike and modern cuisine make this the ideal family get away. See More
  
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