Glenapp Castle Hotel, Ballantrae

History

Glenapp Castle was built in 1870 - a strikingly beautiful example of the Scottish baronial style of architecture. Designed by the celebrated architect David Bryce for Mr James Hunter, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Ayrshire, the castle’s mellow sandstone battlements are topped by soaring turrets and towers, earning Glenapp a rightful place as one of the most romantic castles in Scotland.

The castle was purchased in 1917 by James Lyle Mackay, who later became the 1st Earl of Inchcape. The Inchcape family owned the castle until 1982.

Local hoteliers, the McMillan Family purchased the castle in June 1994, by which time it had, sadly, fallen into a very poor state of repair. Their daughter and son-in-law, Fay and Graham Cowan, made the castle their home and embarked upon a lengthy restoration.

Food & beverage

Dining in the gracious surroundings of the elegant castle dining room while watching the sun set over Ailsa Craig and the Mull of Kintyre is a truly unique experience. Each evening at dinner, we serve a six course gourmet menu in our Michelin Star, 4 AA Rosette restaurant, expertly prepared by Head Chef Adam Stokes and his team. Our menus change daily and utilise the best fresh and seasonal local ingredients, including fruit, vegetables and herbs from the castle gardens. All of our resident guests have an automatic dinner reservation in our restaurant between 7.00pm and 9.30pm. Afternoon tea in the castle Drawing Room is available between 3.00pm and 5.00pm, by prior reservation.

Enjoy a full Scottish breakfast between 7.45am and 10.45am and choose from a range of locally sourced dishes such as the 'Glenapp Grill' or smoked haddock with poached egg.

Grounds & Gardens

The 36 acre grounds at Glenapp Castle are totally secluded and private, and are for the exclusive use of the castle guests. There are many rare and unusual plants and shrubs to be found, including magnificent specimen rhododendrons. Paths wander round the azalea pond, and through established woodland, leading to the wonderful walled garden with its 150 foot Victorian glasshouse. Fresh herbs and fruit from the garden are used every day in the castle kitchen, and freshly cut flowers adorn every room.

For the more energetic, there's an all weather tennis court and croquet lawn.

Other facilities

The castle has free Wi-Fi  available for all guests.

Glenapp Castle does not have spa facilities on site, but in association with a brand new local seashore spa only five minutes drive away guests can enjoy the facilities. On payment of an entry fee, resident guests may use the luxury facilities of this normally private membership spa. Guests can also enjoy a full range of treatments and massage. The spa is open from 7.00am until 10.00pm seven days of the week. Facilities include a 15 metre Level Deck Pool with disappearing horizon, Aromatic Steam Room, Sauna, and fully equipped Fitness Suite. There is also a Health Bar serving light snacks, meals and refreshments.

There is a wide choice of activities available either at the castle or nearby. Please ask for activities list when making a reservation.