STYLE AND SUBSTANCE
Nestled between the River Earn and the ‘Knock’ (Hillock in Scots) The old market town of Crieff holds happy nostalgia for me, not least having spent my honeymoon there a decade ago. As a landscape photographer I’ve spent many hours exploring the valley of Strathearn and chasing the golden light of sunrise and sunset over the lush Perthshire hills. I was understandably excited then to return to the area and looking forward to what our stay in the four star Knock Castle Hotel might bring.
The hotel creates a good first impression. The stately Baronial sandstone structure has obvious nods to a ‘castle’ with its conical towers, stepped chimney and carved entrance lintel reached by stone lion flanked stairs. The hallway feels welcoming, a large roaring fire in the grate by the reception desk and an assortment of framed artwork, mostly landscape, catches the eye from clutches along the walls. On route to our room, we were guided up the wood panelled and balustraded staircase above a baby grand piano, past a splendid arched landing window of stained glass of intricate designs inspired by nature.
SLEEPING MATTERS
The ‘Glen Almond’ suite is very roomy and dominated by a massive king-sized bed (a layer of memory foam made for a sublime slumber!). The room felt grand and was spotless, with handsome Victorian furnishing and traditional fittings intact. The contemporary bathroom had ‘his & her’ sinks, walk in shower and a bathtub reached by steps, cleverly installed in the circular recess of the tower section, overall a perfect balance of traditional and new.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Strategically located at the top of the building, the aptly named ‘Stag’s view’ restaurant was the perfect setting for a memorable meal. Hotel assistant David greeted us in the reception area prior to being seated and patiently attended to our selections before leading us through to our window-side table. A shame we couldn’t see much of the sweeping panorama across the Strathearn Valley as the late winters evening found the view cloaked in shadow. The ‘A la carte’ menu is composed of traditional Scottish selection and practically all ingredients are intentionally sourced (season permitting) from the area, and the presentation of the food is outstanding (compliments to James, the sous chef). My Venison Carpaccio starter was wonderful. Surprisingly subtle for game, but smoky cauliflower puree, pickled mushrooms and horseradish delight and compliment perfectly. A moreish plate of rich con-fit duck spring rolls follows, and the little breaded monk-fish cheeks accompanying are a stand out. On to the palette cleansing raspberry and lime cheesecake with mulled fruits on a pistachio crumb base and I was in nirvana.
DRINK IN THE SIGHTS
Crieff is steeped in Jacobean history and once a major venue for drovers bringing their stock from all over Scotland, Rob Roy often made the journey to sell on his cattle and loudly raise a toast to the ‘old pretender’, the uncrowned King James. Today, street wares offer plenty of variety and boutique products abound. Gourmet foods, arts & crafts, and traditional spirits are predominant. In the immediate area there are whisky tours, sports activities, historic houses and exhibitions to explore. Take a river stroll down ‘Lady Mary’s walk’ or the short drive up to Loch Turret where the local Glen Turret Distillery draws its water, and I would recommend a wander up the ‘Knock’ given the ease of access from the Hotel.
KNOCK CASTLE BEST FOR …
The Hotel and Crieff is the perfect getaway destination when city life and work stress need alleviating, and I can see why the Victorians came here in droves to find such escape. It’s also the ideal base to explore this historically rich and visually stunning stretch of Perthshire with views that linger long in the memory.
NICE TOUCH
On the surface the Hotel initially portrays a certain grandeur, but the overall ‘vibe’ of the Hotel is one of relaxation and inclusiveness (not surprising given its earlier use as a respite and health centre). There are fantastic facilities on-site, ample pool with a hot tub, sauna and steam room and the main building has a spa where my wife relished a hot-stone body massage. All management and staff we encountered put us at even more ease with their sincere, friendly, and approachable manner. The proprietor and head chef Jason also took great pride in delivering this kind of experience for guests, a premium grade stay without the stuffiness and exclusivity of more expensive offerings.
ABOUT THE AREA
The hotel offers many special activity packages including distillery tours, golf and fishing. Conference and weddings are also catered for.
Example booking:
One Night Spa Break for Two People with Bed & Breakfast,
One Hour Treatment for Each Person
plus, Unlimited Use of Leisure Facilities
£239 per couple staying in a ‘Lomond Room’
Knock Castle Hotel
Drummond Terrace,
Crieff, Perthshire PH7 4AN
T: 01764 650088
E: info@knockcastle.com
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