STYLE AND SUBSTANCE
The Elphinstone Hotel, Biggar has a traditional charm reflecting it’s 400 year old history. Despite it’s rich and ancient heritage, we were pleased to note that the building has been updated in keeping with modern day standards but not to the cost of it’s historical roots. The Herald’s previous visit took place during the winter months, and so we thought a return visit worthwhile during warmer climes.
A family business owned by Robert and Janette Allen along with their son, Michael, the ‘Elph’ as some locals refer to it, offered up an immediate welcoming atmosphere for locals and tourists alike. Worthy of all it’s three stars from the Scottish Tourist board, the Elphinstone encompasses a public bar, lounge, function suite, outside beer garden and of course restaurant and breakfast area. The public bar on the day of our visit seemed well frequented by locals, which is always a good sign and was busy with local trade.
SLEEPING MATTERS
Our family room was well appointed, with a large comfortable and clean double bed, and included sturdy bunks for families with children. Both bed areas had their own flat screen TV, and pleased to note a very clean bathroom with modern and fully functioning shower.
Despite their being a private function in full swing in the floor below, our room was well soundproofed, with no unexpected noisy interruptions. So if you’re looking for a good nights sleep, room 9 comes highly recommended.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
We expected the food might be that little bit special and in keeping with the general high standard all round – and we weren’t disappointed. I had a 10oz sirloin steak – rare to medium, while my partner had steak and haggis.
Both served with homemade chunky chips and delicious sauces. By this stage we regretted having ordered a rather large chicken and cheese nacho starter, which in hindsight was more of a meal in itself.
Breakfast was self service buffet style with a very helpful server on hand to offer coffee, teas and toast additions, and again we were not disappointed.
DRINK IN THE SIGHTS
The bar of the Elphinstone seems to be extremely popular with locals and tourists alike. The public bat was welcoming and busy, with an atmosphere befitting a country Hotel and Bar. Outwith this, there is the local museum, an array of traditional shops selling local goods and crafts, and another 3 bars dotted along the main street for the more curious. Certainly, on a sunny Saturday afternoon in Biggar, it makes for a very pleasant stroll along the main street. There is plenty of parking, and generally – a slower pace of life sets the tone for the Town, with the Elphinstone sitting at it’s heart.
NICE TOUCH
The addition of Arran Aromatics shower toiletries in the private bathroom was a very nice touch, and indicative of the extra little things that make the Elphinstone so charming. The staff also go out of there way to serve you quickly and always with a smile, and nothing seemed too much bother. All in all made for a very relaxed and pleasant stay indeed and certainly a venue we would and will return to.
ABOUT THE AREA
The Town of Biggar rests in the Southern Uplands of Scotland lying between the river Clyde to the West and rover Tweed to the East. If you are travelling from Glasgow or Edinburgh, we strongly suggest travelling via the motorway and not, as google suggests, via the winding and somewhat taxing ‘A’ roads. At roughly 1hrs drive from Glasgow, it’s a perfect trip for those wanting to get away from it all but without putting too many miles on the clock. The market place opposite the Elphinstone remains the central focus of this thriving wee Town, which also boasts a puppet theatre, Little cinema, an art gallery and the Biggar & Upper Clydesdale Museum amongst it’s visitor attractions.
By Car: Biggar is on the A702, 30 miles southwest of Edinburgh and 10 miles southeast of Lanark. Biggar is 15 minutes from the M74 Junction 13 at Abington.
By Bus: There is a bus service between Edinburgh and Biggar (no 101/102)and Lanark and Biggar (no. 191)
By Train: The nearest train station os Lanark, which connects to Glasgow Central.
To book, with rooms from £65 in high season, contact:
The Elphinstone Hotel,
145 High St, Biggar ML12 6DL
Or for latest rates and to book online also visit Hotels.com
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