Three exceptional hospitality venues nestled across Perthshire and Angus have garnered significant national acclaim, triumphing at the highly respected Good Hotel Guide Awards. These local gems were singled out for their outstanding quality, contributing to the region’s growing reputation as a premier destination for discerning travellers and food enthusiasts.
Among the distinguished winners was Gordon’s Restaurant, located in the charming Angus village of Inverkeilor, which received the coveted title of ‘best restaurant with rooms’. Meanwhile, The Meikleour Arms, a renowned Perthshire country hotel, was celebrated as the ‘best hotel in Scotland’. Not to be outdone, The Coorie Inn in Muthill, a picturesque village near Crieff, earned a coveted spot on the editor’s choice list as a leading ‘foodie hotel’.
These impressive accolades were unveiled at a glittering ceremony, widely considered the pinnacle of recognition within the United Kingdom’s hotel sector. The event highlighted the dedication and passion embedded within the local hospitality industry. Culinary Excellence at Gordon’s Restaurant
Gordon’s Restaurant, a family-run establishment led by the dynamic mother-and-son duo, Maria and Garry Watson, was praised for its masterful culinary artistry. The awards specifically acknowledged Garry Watson as the driving force behind the kitchen’s innovative dishes. His commitment to showcasing the finest local produce, expertly sourced from the surrounding land and sea, ensures an unforgettable dining experience that truly celebrates the flavours of Angus and Scotland. Patrons can expect a meticulous presentation of ingredients, from freshly caught seafood to foraged delicacies, all prepared with immense skill and creativity. The Meikleour Arms: A Quintessential Scottish Retreat
Further enhancing Perthshire’s allure, The Meikleour Arms, nestled within the historic Landsdowne Estate on the banks of the River Tay, was recognised for its unique blend of influences. Owned by Sam Mercer Nairne, a direct descendant of the estate, and his Bordeaux-born wife Claire, the hotel masterfully combines elegant French sophistication with warm, traditional Scottish hospitality. This harmonious fusion extends to their ‘estate-to-plate’ culinary philosophy, ensuring guests enjoy fresh, seasonal ingredients often sourced directly from the surrounding land. The inviting atmosphere, coupled with charming accommodation options including beautifully appointed rooms and cosy cottages, and an attentive service ethos, creates a truly captivating and memorable stay. Muthill’s Coorie Inn: A Warm, Food-Focused Escape
The Coorie Inn, situated in the tranquil conservation village of Muthill, a short drive from the bustling market town of Crieff and serving as a gateway to the Highlands, was lauded as a truly ‘warm and welcoming retreat’. The establishment’s name itself, derived from the Scottish word ‘coorie’ meaning to nestle or snuggle, perfectly encapsulates the inviting ambiance. A particular highlight for guests is the extraordinary food, crafted by highly skilled chefs Phillip Skinazi and Andrew Mackay, both of whom previously honed their craft at the world-renowned Gleneagles Hotel nearby. Their innovative menus are a testament to their talent, featuring a rich array of local Scottish produce, from exquisite Shetland mussels to succulent Highland venison, all presented with artistic flair. The Coorie Inn offers not just a meal, but a genuine culinary journey that delights the senses and provides a comforting escape. Industry Recognition and Future Prospects
The prestigious awards ceremony was presided over by acclaimed hotelier and television personality Alex Polizzi, widely known for her insightful role in Channel 5’s popular programme, The Hotel Inspector. During the event, Polizzi acknowledged the inherent challenges faced by the hospitality sector, particularly for independent establishments.
She emphasised the crucial role of the Good Hotel Guide as a vital support network for smaller, independent hotels, highlighting the importance of collaboration and adaptability within the industry to ensure continued success and mutual growth. The recognition of these three local businesses not only celebrates their individual achievements but also elevates the profile of Perthshire and Angus as prime destinations for exceptional lodging and dining experiences, drawing visitors from across the country and beyond. This local triumph underscores the vibrant and resilient spirit of the region’s entrepreneurial community, promising a bright future for its tourism and culinary landscape.
Among the distinguished winners was Gordon’s Restaurant, located in the charming Angus village of Inverkeilor, which received the coveted title of ‘best restaurant with rooms’. Meanwhile, The Meikleour Arms, a renowned Perthshire country hotel, was celebrated as the ‘best hotel in Scotland’. Not to be outdone, The Coorie Inn in Muthill, a picturesque village near Crieff, earned a coveted spot on the editor’s choice list as a leading ‘foodie hotel’.
These impressive accolades were unveiled at a glittering ceremony, widely considered the pinnacle of recognition within the United Kingdom’s hotel sector. The event highlighted the dedication and passion embedded within the local hospitality industry. Culinary Excellence at Gordon’s Restaurant
Gordon’s Restaurant, a family-run establishment led by the dynamic mother-and-son duo, Maria and Garry Watson, was praised for its masterful culinary artistry. The awards specifically acknowledged Garry Watson as the driving force behind the kitchen’s innovative dishes. His commitment to showcasing the finest local produce, expertly sourced from the surrounding land and sea, ensures an unforgettable dining experience that truly celebrates the flavours of Angus and Scotland. Patrons can expect a meticulous presentation of ingredients, from freshly caught seafood to foraged delicacies, all prepared with immense skill and creativity. The Meikleour Arms: A Quintessential Scottish Retreat
Further enhancing Perthshire’s allure, The Meikleour Arms, nestled within the historic Landsdowne Estate on the banks of the River Tay, was recognised for its unique blend of influences. Owned by Sam Mercer Nairne, a direct descendant of the estate, and his Bordeaux-born wife Claire, the hotel masterfully combines elegant French sophistication with warm, traditional Scottish hospitality. This harmonious fusion extends to their ‘estate-to-plate’ culinary philosophy, ensuring guests enjoy fresh, seasonal ingredients often sourced directly from the surrounding land. The inviting atmosphere, coupled with charming accommodation options including beautifully appointed rooms and cosy cottages, and an attentive service ethos, creates a truly captivating and memorable stay. Muthill’s Coorie Inn: A Warm, Food-Focused Escape
The Coorie Inn, situated in the tranquil conservation village of Muthill, a short drive from the bustling market town of Crieff and serving as a gateway to the Highlands, was lauded as a truly ‘warm and welcoming retreat’. The establishment’s name itself, derived from the Scottish word ‘coorie’ meaning to nestle or snuggle, perfectly encapsulates the inviting ambiance. A particular highlight for guests is the extraordinary food, crafted by highly skilled chefs Phillip Skinazi and Andrew Mackay, both of whom previously honed their craft at the world-renowned Gleneagles Hotel nearby. Their innovative menus are a testament to their talent, featuring a rich array of local Scottish produce, from exquisite Shetland mussels to succulent Highland venison, all presented with artistic flair. The Coorie Inn offers not just a meal, but a genuine culinary journey that delights the senses and provides a comforting escape. Industry Recognition and Future Prospects
The prestigious awards ceremony was presided over by acclaimed hotelier and television personality Alex Polizzi, widely known for her insightful role in Channel 5’s popular programme, The Hotel Inspector. During the event, Polizzi acknowledged the inherent challenges faced by the hospitality sector, particularly for independent establishments.
She emphasised the crucial role of the Good Hotel Guide as a vital support network for smaller, independent hotels, highlighting the importance of collaboration and adaptability within the industry to ensure continued success and mutual growth. The recognition of these three local businesses not only celebrates their individual achievements but also elevates the profile of Perthshire and Angus as prime destinations for exceptional lodging and dining experiences, drawing visitors from across the country and beyond. This local triumph underscores the vibrant and resilient spirit of the region’s entrepreneurial community, promising a bright future for its tourism and culinary landscape.