This recently renovated luxury retreat on the edge of the Scottish Highlands blends classic grandeur with modern touches, featuring a world-class golf course, a chic cocktail bar, and a range of outdoor pursuits.
Location
Situated on the edge of the highlands, within 240 acres of woodland, Mar Hall is just a 15-minute drive from Glasgow airport, which makes it incredibly easy to access while also being completely immersed in the Scottish countryside. It sits on the banks of the River Clyde, across from the town of Old Kilpatrick, with views of the mountain known as the Slacks beyond.
The vibe
Following a recent renovation (work on the main building was completed earlier this year and continues on the lodges), Mar Hall feels fun and modern while also retaining a classic Scottish feel. The imposing stone exterior contrasts pleasantly with the rich, warm interiors. In the old drawing room, look out for Easter eggs in the historical portrait-style paintings – such as one gentleman weaning Nike Air Max trainers along with his regal garb. It’s the perfect illustration of classic meets contemporary.
Service
Staff are unfalteringly friendly and helpful. There were some minor slip-ups from the younger (though very enthusiastic) staff, such as forgotten or misheard orders, but these were more than made up for by the positive attitude and warmth.
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Bed and bath
There are 74 rooms in Mar Hall, and its owners are in the process of building self-catered lodges, which are due to be completed next year. All rooms are a good size and individually decorated, from entry level up to the cavernous grand suites (one comes with a baby grand piano, and another has a pool table). The Garden Suites each have a small outdoor area looking down towards the river or across the golf course.
There’s a sense of grandeur throughout, with high ceilings, fireplaces and plush fabrics, combined with modern touches including printed wallpapers, crushed velvet, and splashes of bright colour. Beds are kingsize, with comfy mattresses and crisp bedding. Bathrooms feature white marble with gold fixtures; all rooms have walk-in showers, while some suites have bathtubs in addition.
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Food and drink
There’s a real focus on locally sourced produce at Mar Hall, and that’s reflected in all of its menus. Dinner is served in the main restaurant, with dishes including Argyll smoked salmon, Berwick crab, prime Perthshire beef, and St Brides Farm confit duck. The spicy raw beef made tableside is particularly impressive.
There is a vegetarian menu, which looked promising but was rather disappointing and lacked flavour, so I’d advise sticking to options from the main menu (with adaptations if needed). The afternoon tea, which can include a glass of champagne, is superb (this is an area where the vegetarian option is carefully thought out). There is a wonderful selection of both sweet and savoury items, exquisitely presented alongside a wide range of teas.
The cocktail bar, Slainte, is quite possibly the best part of Mar Hall, with an open fire (they’re gas rather than wood-burning at this hotel, but still very cosy) and velvet sofas you can sink into, as well as a sleek bar with an excellent array of spirits. Chief mixologist Chris will be only too happy to talk you through the drinks on offer, and the signature cocktail menu has a range of beautifully crafted choices, including Highland Mist (a rich, slightly sweet blend of Dalmore cigar malt, Secret Garden pinot noir vermouth and Dom Benedictine), and the rum-based Riverside, which perfectly combines mango, ginger and raspberry lemonade.
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Facilities
The spa at Mar Hall includes a large pool, a sauna and steam rooms, as well as a variety of treatments. There’s also a large, fully equipped gym that looks out onto the pool. Then there’s that world-class golf course stretching along the Clyde, with spectacular views to the hills beyond.
Mar Hall really stands out in the experiences it offers, a range of quintessentially Scottish activities that fully embrace the outdoors. The off-roading trips with 4×4 Scottish Adventures are rip-roaring fun and a great way to explore further afield, while activities including archery, air rifle shooting and clay pigeon shooting are available at the property.
Accessibility
The Garden Spa Suite Rooms are all accessible.
Pet policy
Dogs are allowed in Spa Garden Suites – where they will have direct access to the grounds – but not in communal dining areas. There is a fee of £50 per dog per night, and advance booking is essential. Your dog will be welcomed with a plush dog bed and a water bowl.
Check in/Check out
Check in at 3pm, check out at 11am.
Family friendly?
Children are welcomed at Mar Hall. Extra beds can be added to rooms.
At a glance
Best thing: The country sports and cocktails.
Perfect for: Anyone who loves the outdoors – and prefers it with refinement.
Not right for: Those who worry about a bit of mud.
Instagram from: Slainte bar.
Address: Earl of Mar Estate, Bishopton, PA7 5NW
Phone number: 0141 812 9999
Website: Marhall.com
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