Glenapp Castle Hotel, Ballantrae

Histoire

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, during which time they expanded the estate considerably and enlarged and altered the castle to its present form.

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.

Restauration et Boissons

Dining in the gracious surroundings of the elegant castle dining rooms 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, 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.

While all of our resident guests have an automatic dinner reservation, the dining rooms at Glenapp are also open to non-resident guests by prior reservation for lunch and dinner.

Afternoon tea in the castle Drawing Room is available to non-resident guests, again by prior reservation.

Espaces verts et alentours

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.

Plus d'informations

Glenapp Castle does not have spa facilities on site, but we are delighted to announce our association with a brand new local spa.

The spa is located on the seashore, approximately five minutes by car from the castle, and has incredible views out across the Irish Sea to Ailsa Craig and Arran.

On payment of an entry fee, resident guests at Glenapp 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 to Glenapp guests 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 with the latest Technogym equipment and qualified personal fitness instructors. 

There is also a Health Bar serving light snacks, meals and refreshments.