Macdonald Norwood Hall, Aberdeen
STYLE AND SUBSTANCE
Stepping through the front door, the first thing that hits a guest is the homely aroma of woodsmoke from the open-fire in reception. It sets the scene for what is a beautiful country house hotel, built in 1881 on the site of the 15th century Pitfodels Castle. The public rooms are lavishly decorated with sumptuous leather seats, chandeliers, rare vintage wallpapers and oil paintings.
SLEEPING MATTERS
The Classic double rooms are peaceful spots, with views over the River Dee and the gardens and they have all the usual facilities such as satellite TV and ensuite bathroom. The Feature King sleeps two adults and 1 child and includes a lounge.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
There's the elegant, if slightly stuffy, Tapestry Restaurant where Gressingham duck breast will set you back £19.50 and a sirloin steak£27.50. Or the informal Georgian Bar which offers St Mungo's beer battered haddock for £12 or Aberdeen Angus Burger at £13. Both specialise in the finest Scottish cuisine using many local and organic suppliers.
DRINK IN THE SIGHTS
The Georgian Bar has a whisky menu with over 80 choices as well as wines and Scottish beers, such as Schiehallion on draught. Afternoon tea is also available.
CHECKOUT
The hotel is on the edge of the southern side of Aberdeen, next to Grays School of Art and the huge RGU university complex. A taxi, at £10, will take you to the city centre, or there are regular buses.
NICE TOUCH
The bar is a pleasantly traditional place to relax and the seven-acre gardens make a peaceful spot for a stroll.
ABOUT THE AREA
The council has done its best to ruin the city centre with inappropriate developments – and Union Street is now a jumble of second-hand shops. Old Aberdeen is still an elegant university quarter and Fittie gives an insight into life in a traditional fishing village.
DEALS
B&B in an executive double room costs £70, or £119 which includes dinner, in the Tapestry restaurant. B&B in a feature king room is £210, or £269 to include dinner. Deals applicable until the end of July.
Macdonald Norwood Hall, Aberdeen, Garthdee Road, AB15 9FX 01224 868951. See www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk
Or for latest prices and to book online also visit Hotels.com
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