News, awards and what's on

Glowing accolades all round

It’s not just the sun that’s shining this summer. Our members and partners have outdone themselves, garnering an impressive array of awards, recognition and mentions – for everything from culinary prowess to stellar entrepreneurship. 

And if you’re on the search for a bookable experience to make your stay in Scotland even more special, look no further. The Machrie have just launched their Ultimate West Coast Golf Experience, while in Edinburgh, it’s a toss-up between pampering packages at the Sheraton Grand and decadent drams at Johnnie Walker. 

Read on for all the delightful details...

The secret's out

We’d like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Murrayshall Country Estate, who successfully retained their two AA Rosettes following a recent, secret AA inspection at their Eòlas restaurant. 

In other good news, the acclaimed restaurant’s summer menus have now launched, alongside a sublime tasting menu designed to showcase the flavours of the season. Did we mention there’s an equally impressive selection of wines to match? Discover the full menu and secure your table here

In the good books

We’re thrilled for Skye-based hotel Kinloch Lodge, which has recently been recognised with a review in The Good Food Guide. 

Commending chef Jordan Webb’s dinner menu, the review highlights the use of regional ingredients like Portree mackerel, roe deer and Blue Murder cheese – and gives a special nod to the warmth of the restaurant’s service. 

If that’s whet your appetite, check out their website for availability and bookings. 

Bringing Scottish golf to the fore

Attention, golfers - this one’s for you. Islay-based hotel The Machrie have recently announced the launch of the Ultimate West Coast Golf Experience in partnership with Dundonald Links. 

This special package includes a six-night experience, encompassing play on no fewer than four world-class courses. Every possible luxury has been made available both on and off the fairway – including private jet travel, whisky tasting, and fine dining experiences. Explore the full offer (and tee up a stay) here

A huge honour for Little's

Congratulations to Little’s Chauffeur Drive, who picked up the National Entrepreneurship Family Business of the Year award at the 2023 Family Business of the Year Awards.

Managing Director Heather Matthews collected the award on the company’s behalf, saying, The last three years have been the hardest in the company’s almost 60-year history, and to win this national award for not only surviving, but thriving, is a real honour. The resilience and loyalty of the whole team at Little’s is something I am thankful for every single day.”

Little’s offer a luxurious fleet of vehicles, driven by professional chauffeurs, along with customised itineraries and last-minute hires. They pride themselves on offering a five-star service. You can plan your own chauffeur-driven experience with Little’s here. 

Two for the Edinburgh itinerary

Planning a jaunt to Scotland’s capital this summer? We’d highly recommend pre-booking an experience to enhance your time in the city. 

The Sheraton Grand offers a range of tempting options, from a three-gin tasting experience to champagne brunch and a luxurious spa afternoon. With its magnificent rooftop views of the castle, you can enjoy a bit of pampering, while technically seeing the sights at the same time. It’s a win-win situation. 

If it’s a whisky you’re after, we’d suggest making time for the luxury whisky and artisanal chocolate experience at Johnnie Walker Princes Street, which pairs four signature tipples with luxury truffles. Just when you thought a dram couldn’t get any dreamier… 

And finally...

We’d like to congratulate these hotels on their recent achievements:

Crossbasket Castle, who picked up Restaurant of the Year at the Scottish Restaurant Awards.

Iain Gourlay, Head Chef of Cringletie, who’s made it to the semi-final of the 2023 National Chef of the Year competition for the third year in a row.

The Isle of Eriska Hotel, Spa & Island, which has been nominated for Best Hotel Restaurant in Scotland in the World Culinary Awards.

And Luxury Scotland members Glenapp Castle, The Torridon, Fingal and Cromlix, who all featured in The Independent’s Best Luxury Hotels in Scotland feature. Phew!