News, awards and what's on
After a few months to build up their momentum, there has been a deluge of news and awards for Luxury Scotland members in the first quarter of the year. From national awards to new chapters in ancient stories, Scottish hospitality is upping its game for 2025. Let’s check it out.
The Torridon wins hotel of the year
This year’s The Times & Sunday Times Best Places to Stay list has crowned The Torridon as Scotland Hotel of the Year – a well-earned accolade for the UK's most northerly five-star hotel.
“This recognition is a true testament to the hard work, passion and dedication of our incredible team,” said owner Dan Rose-Bristow. With its dramatic setting and renowned hospitality, The Torridon continues to lead the way in luxury Scottish escapes.
New for May: The Azalea at Glenapp Castle
Already celebrated for its fine dining, Glenapp Castle is expanding its culinary offering with The Azalea, a new restaurant set within the Victorian glasshouse and bothy.
Opening 1st May 2025, The Azalea offers seasonal menus built around the castle’s abundant kitchen garden, where vegetables, fruit, herbs and spices flourish. Dinner is served Wednesday through Saturday, in addition to Sunday lunch.
And to celebrate The Azalea’s opening, Glenapp Castle is offering ‘3 nights for the price of 2’ for the first May bank holiday weekend. Click here to learn more.
Visit the Glenapp website or phone: 01465 831212 to book.
Trocadero’s unveiled at Crossbasket Castle
A new chapter has begun at Crossbasket Castle with the opening of Trocadero’s – a glamorous new restaurant bringing contemporary flair to a historic estate. From polished interiors to a thoughtfully curated menu, Trocadero’s promises to be a standout destination, combining classic luxury with creative Scottish cuisine in an unforgettable setting.
A big nomination for Little's Chauffeur Drive
Congratulations to Heather Matthews of Little’s Chauffeur Drive, who has been named a finalist for Female Business Leader of the Year at the British Business Awards 2025. This is on top of the exciting news that with the acquisition of Vigilant Chauffeur Services, Little's now has its own permanent fleet in Aberdeen providing bespoke chauffeur-driven tours and VIP services in Scotland’s three major cities. Watch out – Little’s is growing up.
The sun shines on Leith as a fine dining destination
Spearheaded by Tom Kitchin, Martin Wishart, and Sam Yorke, a group of celebrated chefs and restaurants have embarked on a campaign to strengthen Leith’s position as the fine dining capital of Scotland. Leith already boasts three Michelin-starred restaurants, a Michelin Bib Gourmand venue, and a two AA Rosette restaurant aboard Luxury Scotland member, Fingal.
With the tramway complete and such exalted chefs leading the charge, it looks like Leith is set to become one of the UK's top dining destinations. Experience this gastronomic haven for yourself with the featured offer in this month's newsletter, Spring Aboard Fingal.
New road improves access to Murrayshall
Good news for travellers heading north – the new Destiny Bridge has officially opened as part of the £150 million Cross Tay Link Road project, simplifying travel to some of the region’s finest destinations. Guests of Murrayshall Country Estate can spend less time driving and more time unwinding, while historic gems like Scone Palace, which reopened for the season on April 1st, are closer than ever.
The Royal Scotsman returns for 2025
Scotland’s most elegant railway journey is ready to roll once again. The Royal Scotsman by Belmond has launched its 2025 season, offering a curated selection of immersive journeys throughout the Highlands. Think plush carriages, world-class cuisine, off-train adventures, and landscapes that live long in the memory.
The lines are open!
Voting is now open for the 2025 Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards – and several Luxury Scotland properties are in the running. If you’ve enjoyed an exceptional stay, meal or moment at one of our member hotels, your vote could help them gain global recognition. Submissions close later this spring. Click here to cast your ballot.
What's that coming over the hill?
If you're visiting the west coast this spring, try and make time to visit The Crinan Hotel’s secret garden. Tucked away on the hill behind the hotel, the garden is part of Scotland's Garden Scheme and is open from dawn 'till dusk until October.