The Dower House is really a lovely place to have a break. I travel a lot and stay in formulaic hotels, and at the core of its charm is the simple truth that the Dower House is very far from being formulaic. If your think that a Marriott is the perfect hotel, then I suspect the Dower House isn't for you.

Mena Aitchison was out host and provided faultless service from the moment of our arrival to our departure. We enjoyed the suite, and had a great nights sleep. Breakfast was very good, with delicious muesli and an excellent choice of cooked breakfast. Alas, we didn't eat dinner there due to other commitments, but will do so next time we stay.

The gardens are lovely, although I was clearly not seeing them at their best due to both the early season and the very harsh winter. Sitting out in the summer must be a real joy however.

For overseas travelers looking for a somewhat quirky Scottish country house experience, I would definitely recommend the Dower House.

Dower house lived up to its review as one of the top 10 cosiest places to stay in the UK - and then some. The rooms were comfortable, nicely furnished with good beds and linens. There were wonderful views of the gardens from every window. We made good use of the study for access to the internet. The cuisine is authentic and traditional fare, locally sourced (berries from bushes on the grounds!) expertly and deliciously prepared. Our hosts were absolutely charming; accommodating and friendly.
We can't wait to go back!

Went to the Dower House with 3 children, all in their 30's. Wonderful service at mealtime, delicious meals that were a treat to anticipate and taste, quality rooms that provided every comfort and privacy, wonderful afternoon bar arrangement in the living room around the fireplace, and warm and friendly hosts. We couldn't have asked for anything better. Took day trips out from the Dower House exploring and felt warm and welcomed upon our return. Furnishings in the house are comfortable and interresting - very appealing. Breakfast was fantastic as were the optional night time meals - a must if you are staying there.

I almost didn't review because I think we must have caught the proprietor on an off day, but my visit to the Dower House really wasn't as positive as other reviews. We went for a romantic night on the way elsewhere. On arrival the owner looked totally taken aback (I felt like I'd just walked into a stranger's home unannounced) despite our booking, and was far from friendly. We were the only guests and I generally felt unwelcome. We weren't shown anything but straight to our room - presumably there are communal areas, like a lounge or something, but i still don't know! The room was fine, if compact. The bathroom was absolutely stunning, straight out of an interiors magazine. Breakfast the next day was delicious, but again the service took the sheen off it, and we left quite quickly. Good service is really important to me, especially in a small, family-run establishment, and the lovely interiors didn't compensate for the lack of welcome. We are young and were dressed for the outdoors - maybe she felt we weren't the right sort of guest or something? Either way, I wouldn't go back.