I stayed at £1.1M refurbished Scottish hotel - it was a serene break not far from the city

Aberdeen’s only AA five star hotel has had a significant makeover, with more exciting plans afoot finds Rosalind Erskine.

Aberdeen is, sadly, not somewhere I get to often despite its nearby distilleries, great food, castles and generally wonderful scenery. Outside the city is ‘Aberdeen institution’ the Marcliffe hotel which, until 2024, had been owned by the Spence family since the early 1990s. After an uncertain future, it has since been bought by the Balmoral Group who’ve spent millions on new rooms and a restaurant, and have further grand plans. So what’s this, Aberdeen’s only AA five star hotel, like to stay in for a few nights? I visited this autumn to find out.

Budget or boutique?

Bed and breakfast is from £199 in a Deluxe Room. For a Superior Room, which is one of the refurbished ones that we stayed in, is from £219. While boutique, it’s more affordable than central belt equivalents given the level of service and comfort.

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Room service

I stayed in the Crathes superior room, which is one of 13 that have been part of a £1.1 million refurbishment; all named after local castles. Decorated in a soft neutral palette with light blues, the room design is a mix of heritage patterns in the rug and feature wall, along with bespoke Balmoral tartan cushions, and modern touches such as the parquet flooring, shelving and accessories. There are obvious nods to Scotland, with the colours reflecting the landscapes and skies, without being twee or obvious. The spacious bathroom had a walk-in shower, Jack and Jill sinks and full sized Elemis toiletries.

Wining and dining

The hotel’s multimillion pound renovations haven’t just been on the bedrooms. Earlier this year £5.5 million was spent converting the former outdoor courtyard into Skylark brasserie, a brand new restaurant for the hotel. We enjoyed a dinner here from the global-inspired menu which features dishes such as crying tiger Asian inspired steak, haddock and chips and cacio e pepe, served with a topping of crispy bacon. Order if you’re hungry or carb loading as this rich and cheesy dish was a generous portion. Don’t miss the new cocktail menu, designed by head bartender Ross Cunningham. Try the Feathered Fizz for a fruity start to the evening or the Orkney Ember for a theatrical end to the night.

A classic afternoon tea is always a good idea, especially so here as it’s served in the tranquil drawing room. Finger sandwiches, warm scones and a selection of seasonal cakes were all delicious and enjoyed by the roaring fire. The drawing room is also a great place for pre or post dinner drinks by the fire listening to the live piano music.

A buffet and a la carte breakfast is served in The Conservatory, where there is also a Scottish-focused seasonal dinner menu available.

Worth getting out of bed for

Marcliffe is ideally located to spend a day out enjoying world class whisky and ancient castles. Forget about driving (especially if you’re sampling the drams) and book Luxury Scot for a comfortable way to see the sights. We travelled in style in an Xclusive minibus and didn’t have to worry about roadworks, parking or who was the designated driver. Keen to visit my room’s namesake, we went to Crathes Castle, which is about a half an hour drive away and had an immersive tour of this historic location. Royal Lochnagar distillery is over an hour away but worth it thanks to our brilliant tour guide Moira (and the wonderful whisky. Most of which ends up in Johnnie Walker Blue Label).

One of the most anticipated restaurants, Falls by Orry Shand is a half hour drive from the hotel and well worth a visit, if you can get a reservation. A full blown multiple tasting menu extravaganza, it’s a celebration of Scotland and worth an evening away from the comfort of the hotel.

After a day of exploring, the hotel’s small spa can offer rest and relaxation with the 30 minute Elemis back neck and shoulder massage the quickest way to unwind. Plans for a larger spa and more bedrooms, in the newly acquired Woodbank - a neighbouring 14-acre estate, formerly owned by Shell - have been lodged.

Little extras

Well stocked tea and coffee, a jar stuffed full of biscuits and branded robes and slippers added to the luxury and comfort. If you’re travelling with children, family rooms are available with mini robes and slippers for the kids. Dog-friendly rooms are also available complete with tartan dog bed, treats and a water bowl for the four legged family member.

Guestbook comments

As Aberdeen’s only AA five-star hotel, Marcliffe brings together the warmth of tradition with modern luxury. Undergoing a period of significant investment, Marcliffe now features a striking glass-domed brasserie, Skylark, a premium whisky and sports bar alongside its much-loved Conservatory restaurant and Drawing Room. With newly upgraded bedrooms and suites, it offers a welcoming base to explore the very best of Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

Hotel info

Marcliffe Hotel

Middleton of Pitfodels,

North Deeside Road,

Pitfodels,

Aberdeen

AB15 9YA

01224 861000

www.marcliffe.com/