Ballantrae, Scottish Restaurant Guide

“Sumptuous luxury in beautiful surroundings” is the order of the day at this “grand Scottish castle” – an impressive Victorian pile built in the baronial style on the Ayrshire coast – “such a delightful place to unwind” in the care of “lovely friendly staff”. Meals are taken in the “very traditional restaurant” (seven-course tasting menu, three-course à la carte or afternoon tea, all from a “very talented kitchen brigade”), with views over Ailsa Craig and the Mull of Kintyre. Afternoon tea is a feature: “forget having just a scone and jam – it’s all or nothing!”.

Within one of the last remaining Moncur & McKenzie Glasshouses in the walled gardens of the estate – and featuring many of the kitchen garden’s own veg, herbs and fruit – this second restaurant at the castle opened in May 2025, too late for feedback in our annual diners’ poll. It’s a grand environment – Winston Churchill stayed here as he planned D-Day with General Eisenhower – but here in the glass-house it’s not nearly as expensive as in the main restaurant with mains from around £30.