Style and substance
In this cosy four-star hotel it’s a case of quality not quantity, with just 27 bedrooms inside. All the rooms very in size, most of which include excellent views of the Pittodrie estate and rural Aberdeenshire. The rooms are comfortable and there is the option of an executive room if you wanting plenty of space, as these have it in abundance. There are a few niggles with the décor of the hotel, as carpets need upgrading in places and certain walls and doors need a lick of paint and TLC. The best thing about this place though is all its nooks and crannies. You feel like you’ve stepped into a bit of time machine walking through the halls.
Sleeping matters
The beds are very comfortable and spacious and guests are guaranteed a great night’s sleep. There are TVs in all rooms as well as Wifi, though the televisions are another feature which could do with being upgraded as they are very small, particularly in the large executive rooms which almost drown them. The showers are powerful and there are baths in some rooms should you prefer to have a soak. All rooms come with teas and coffees and biscuits, and you can enjoy breakfast in bed if you fancy.
Food for thought
The menu is quite small in the Mither Tap restaurant, but the food is exquisite. There is a choice of meat, fish and vegetarian across the starters and mains and there is a good variety of desserts for all tastes. The steak comes highly recommended and is worth every penny, coming in a decent size and cooked to perfection with handmade chips. The cheese board is also impressive, and is recommended as a sharer for two.
Drink in the sights
Drinking in a hotel doesn’t really get more cosy than it does in the Snug Bar. The name says it all. The bar is in a dimly-lit hidden room with a log fire and has a wide range of craft beers, spirits and wines. For those looking to splash out, vintage champagne and deluxe wines are on offer.
About the area
The hotel, while very isolated, is just a 15 minute drive away from the busy town of Inverurie, and about half an hour from Aberdeen. There is a good-sized car park at Inverurie train station if you wish to leave your car and hop on a train into the city.
Stephanie Brawn
Macdonald Pittodrie House, Chapel of Garioch, Inverurie, 0344 879 9066, www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk Rooms and breakfast start at £110.
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