Imagine a setting so atmospheric you could picture scheming Traitors whispering in corners, or earnest Faithfuls scanning the grand drawing room for clues. This is the unique, playful vibe of Mar Hall, a recently renovated five-star retreat on the cusp of the Scottish Highlands that masterfully blends classic grandeur with contemporary flair.
A Grand Estate with Modern Sensibility
Located just a 15-minute drive from Glasgow Airport, Mar Hall offers remarkable accessibility while being utterly immersed in nature. The hotel sits within a sprawling 240-acre woodland estate on the banks of the River Clyde, boasting views towards Old Kilpatrick and the Slacks mountain.
Following a significant renovation completed earlier this year, the property strikes a perfect balance. Its imposing stone exterior gives way to warm, rich interiors where tradition meets wit. Look closely at the historical-style portraits in the drawing room, and you might spot a nobleman sporting Nike Air Max trainers alongside his regal attire—a charming nod to the hotel's modern sense of humour.
Luxurious Rooms, Award-Winning Dining & Slainte Bar
Mar Hall features 74 individually decorated rooms, ranging from comfortable entry-level options to cavernous grand suites complete with baby grand pianos or pool tables. The Garden Suites offer private outdoor areas overlooking the river or the golf course. Throughout, high ceilings and plush fabrics are accentuated by modern prints, crushed velvet, and vibrant colour splashes.
Dining is a celebration of local provenance. The main restaurant menu highlights Argyll smoked salmon, Berwick crab, and prime Perthshire beef. While the dedicated vegetarian menu was found to lack flavour, the spectacular afternoon tea—with a carefully crafted veggie option—and the impressive tableside spicy raw beef are standout experiences.
For many, the heart of the hotel is the Slainte cocktail bar. With its cosy gas fire, sink-in velvet sofas, and expert mixologist Chris, it's a destination in itself. Signature drinks like the rich Highland Mist or the fruity Riverside cocktail are not to be missed.
Quintessential Scottish Activities & World-Class Facilities
Beyond its elegant interiors, Mar Hall excels with its extensive facilities and experiences. Guests can enjoy a large spa with a pool, sauna, and steam room, alongside a fully-equipped gym. The estate is also home to a world-class golf course with stunning views along the Clyde.
True to its Scottish setting, the hotel offers a roster of outdoor pursuits. These include archery, air rifle shooting, and clay pigeon shooting on-site. For more adventure, rip-roaring off-roading trips with 4x4 Scottish Adventures provide an exhilarating way to explore the surrounding landscapes.
The hotel is family-friendly and allows dogs in the Spa Garden Suites for a fee of £50 per dog per night, complete with a plush bed and bowl. Check-in is from 3pm, with checkout at 11am.
Mar Hall proves that a luxury Scottish getaway can be both grand and playful, traditional and sleek—a perfect retreat for those who love the outdoors but prefer it served with considerable refinement and a superb cocktail in hand.
