The Place
Pitlochry is a particularly agreeable Highland town, and Knockendarroch House is the place to stay here. Built in 1880 for an Aberdeen advocate, it displays more château-esque elegance than Scottish Baronial pomp. It stands on a plateau above the town, surrounded by mature oaks (its Gaelic name means Hill of Oaks).
Furnished in careful good taste, the house feels gracious and welcoming. There are two interconnecting sitting rooms in which to relax, with log fire, white cornices and new carpets – all very soothing. The dining room is light and spacious, with many windows and some attractive furniture.
Most of the bedrooms have views; those from the second floor are spectacular. They are all well furnished and two have small balconies.
Guests attending the famous Pitlochry Festival Theatre (which began here at Knockendarroch) are served an early dinner, and a courtesy bus is laid on to take them to and from the town.
As we went to press we heard from some well-travelled 30-year-olds who stayed here recently and said the description above is spot on. They enjoyed the grandeur, the comfort and the good food.