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Tags: Summer, Scotland, Restaurant, Scottish food and drink, Whisky, gin, dean banks, chef, scottishsummer
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Spend your summer discovering the best of what Scotland has to offer
Make the most of everything Scotland has to offer this summer, with our ultimate guide to the best places to visit, stay, and eat and drink.
Where to go
Isle of Harris Distillery
As we head into the peak summer period, there's never been a better time to visit the Isle of Harris Distillery. Located in the idyllic Scottish Hebridean seaside village of Tarbert, visitors to the Isle of Harris Distillery are taken on a journey through whisky and gin production, complete with a tasting of Isle of Harris Gin and The Hearach single malt Scotch whisky. Discover the story of how the key botanical, Sugar Kelp seaweed, is gathered by hand from local sea-lochs, before learning the inspiration behind The Hearach and how the soft water on the island impacts the flavour of the gin and whisky.
Take part in one of the daily tours and go behind-the-scenes of this social distillery. Then stop by the café bar for a further taste of The Hearach and Isle of Harris Gin or discover one of the exquisite cocktails on offer. If the Scottish summer leaves much to be desired, cosy up by the fireplace with a drink and some nibbles,
For more information and to book your visit, go to: https://harrisdistillery.com/pages/visit-us.
Discover Scotland with the National Trust for Scotland
Scotland's largest conservation charity, the National Trust for Scotland cares for over 100 places throughout the country – from castles to green spaces, historic play parks to iconic buildings, and gardens to waterfalls. Whatever your interest, and whoever you're travelling with, the National Trust for Scotland has a place for you.
Take a walk through the stunning Dollar Glen, explore Newhailes House and play park, travel to Culloden Battlefield and learn about this important historic site, or live out your fairytale dreams with a visit to Craigievar Castle.
For more information on the National Trust for Scotland and to find the right place for you to visit this summer, go to: https://www.nts.org.uk.
Where to stay
Knipoch House Hotel, Oban
For those looking for a coastal getaway, Knipoch House Hotel in Oban situated on the on the bank of Loch Feochan is the perfect getaway to spend a peaceful weekend, soaking up the countryside and exploring the beautiful surroundings. Guests visiting the newly refurbished hotel can enjoy a firelit lounge, panoramic views of the loch, a private hot tub and walking paths through nature from the hotel.
For more information, visit: https://sonascollection.com/our-hotels/knipoch/.
Duisdale House Hotel, Skye
Indulge in an island getaway and enjoy the rural outdoors on Skye at Duisdale House Hotel. Enjoy the best of Highland hospitality in the former Victorian mansion, in characterful and unique rooms, with a view of the Sound of Sleat and the mountains of Knoydart.
Guests can enjoy a leisurely lunch by the fire or dine on a romantic candlelit dinner in the two-AA-Rosette restaurant.
For more information, visit https://sonascollection.com/our-hotels/duisdale/.
Radisson Blu Glasgow, Glasgow City Centre
Radisson Blu Glasgow is the perfect city centre hub to enjoy all Glasgow has to offer. Relax in the newly refurbished rooms, complete with stylish Timorous Beastie wallpaper – the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring the city. Guests can sip on a delicious cocktail or two in the hotel bar and restaurant The Grahamston, and enjoy the ultimate breakfast selection the next morning, complete with a DIY Bloody Mary bar.
For more information, visit www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-glasgow.
Murrayshall Country Estate & Golf Course, Perthshire
Renowned for its stunning landscapes and world-class amenities, Murrayshall offers a serene escape for guests seeking relaxation and recreation. From an innovative tasting menu at Eolas, to a round of golf on the American parkland style course, to axe throwing or a relaxing spa treatment, Murrayshall continues to set the standard for luxury and excellence in Scottish hospitality.
For more information, visit https://www.murrayshall.co.uk.
Old Course Hotel, St Andrews
While renowned for being the home of golf, the Old Course Resort has so much more to offer for visitors looking for a relaxing day in the seaside town. With eight dining venues including the new West Deck rooftop bar to enjoy summer sunshine, or The Road Hole restaurant with seasonal Scottish fare, Afternoon teas and sweeping views of the sea, options exist for every palette. Alongside a plethora of wellness events and spa treatments available, the hotel and spa is the perfect seaside spot for daytrips from the central belt or visitors from further afield.
For further information, visit: https://www.oldcoursehotel.co.uk/.
Where to eat and drink
Dean Banks at The Pompadour, Edinburgh
Dean Banks' fine dining restaurant is located within the historic 'wedding cake' Pompadour restaurant at The Caledonian Hotel. The restaurant showcases the best of land and sea in a constantly evolving menu reflecting the seasons and Scotland's natural resources. This includes the very best local produce from Edinburgh, Fife and beyond. Foraged seasonal produce is preserved to enjoy the fruits of Summer year-round. Dean's passion for food is truly reflected in each course which will take you on a journey through his past travels and experiences, where each guest will enjoy a sensory experience like no other and leave with a lasting memory.
For more information, visit: www.deanbanks.com.
ASKR, Leith
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Leith, ASKR promises an exquisite culinary experience centred around seasonal ingredients through a meticulously crafted tasting menu, expertly paired with a selection of wines sourced from across the globe. Acclaimed chef Dan Ashmore embraces the primal art of cooking over fire, bringing his unparalleled expertise and innovative flair to create an unforgettable dining experience. From the crackling of the fire to the aroma of sizzling delicacies, every moment at ASKR promises to ignite the senses and redefine the boundaries of culinary excellence. Step into the inviting space and be welcomed by a chef's counter, where your gastronomic journey will unfold. With seating for 26 guests, the restaurant serves both lunch and dinner five days a week.
For more information, visit: www.askr.co.uk
Dulse, Edinburgh
Dulse is a seafood restaurant in the heart of Edinburgh that serves classic Scottish seafood dishes with a modern twist. The neighbourhood-friendly restaurant is perfect for cosy and relaxed dining. Downstairs, a focus on an intimate wine and cocktail bar serves small sharing plates and upstairs is a seafood restaurant created by Chef Dean Banks showcasing the best of Scottish seafood in a warm, relaxed setting.
For more information, visit: www.dulse.co.uk
Haar, St Andrews
A relaxed fine dining restaurant in St Andrews, Haar will take diners on a journey with a unique style of cooking from chef Dean Banks to stimulate the senses. An ethos of sustainability and locally sourced ingredients can be seen throughout the restaurant, right through from the food and drink to the interior design and crockery. The menu hosts the best seafood and local produce the chef can get his hands on. In addition to fine dining, Haar offers six bedrooms designed with a stylish mix of luxury and character. Panoramic views of the Old Course, West Sands, and the North Sea create a stunning outlook from the top floor suites.
For more information, visit: www.haarrestaurant.com.
Dune, St Andrews
Dune offers expertly crafted cocktails, high end spirits and a divine range of wines in a loft bar setting in the heart of St Andrews. Theatrical cocktail presentations can be enjoyed with an array of sharing plates featuring local larder.
For more information, visit: www.dune-standrews.co.uk.
Forager, Clackmannanshire
A laid-back country style gastro pub with a stunning private dining room and honest cooking, Forager's menu pays homage to favourite British pub classics with daily specials including fresh fish, shellfish & a classic Sunday roast. The bar serves craft beers, Scottish spirits, fantastic wines, bespoke cocktails, and a selection of local hand pulled ales.
For more information, visit: www.foragerpub.com.
Temple Lane, Dundee
Dundee's newest contemporary bar is brought to you by MasterChef's Dean Banks.
Open Wednesday – Sunday, Temple Lane serves a magnificent range of expertly hand-crafted cocktails from a signature menu by expert bartenders.
For more information, visit: www.templelane.co.uk.
RIO Brazilian Steakhouse, Edinburgh
Within the historic Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh, RIO offers an authentic Brazilian Churrasco dining experience where specially trained Gaucho chefs serve exquisite cuts of meat carved tableside, around a central salad bar offering a wide variety of Brazilian street food dishes.
For more information, visit: https://www.rio-steakhouse.co.uk
Hard Rock Cafe, Edinburgh
Drink, dine, and enjoy great music in a contemporary, laid-back atmosphere. Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh offers a menu of classic American flavours and street food bites in a fun and vibrant setting in the heart of the city.
For more information, visit: https://cafe.hardrock.com/edinburgh/
Accompanying high resolution imagery can be found here: https://www.dropbox.com/t/eJZtQD0ucgqqpGEo
ENDS
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