Raemoir House Hotel

A noted country house hotel in these parts for years, Raemoir's new owners have freshened up the place, rather than revolutionised it, to create a rounded & accessible experience. Retaining the traditional fabric, such as the wood-panelled dining room, it avoids stuffiness, & even at busy times, service is professional & relaxed. Three courses plus coffee weigh in at £35 – excellent value in such surroundings. Dinner could include a generous hot & cold smoked salmon tian with red onion & capert relish to start; then comforting grilled halibut with spring onion & garlic mash, Nero sauce & aioli as a main; hot chocolate fondant for dessert. The wine list won’t kill your credit card (there are a dozen for £20 or less) & there's an appendix for Bordeaux enthusiasts, starting at £30. It’s also a great spot for afternoon tea of scones, jam & cream (£6.50), served throughout the afternoon.