Murrayshall is a four-star country house hotel in 365 acres of rural Perthshire

Dating back to the mid-17th Century, Murrayshall is a grand century stately home hotel in rural Perthshire.

It offers guests 40 rooms and suites, fine dining, a spa, 27-holes of parkland golf and a wide range of active pursuits

Murrayshall also a short distance from Scone Palace, which was the historic crowning place of Scottish kings.

Murrayshall, a member of the Luxury Scotland portfolio, is currently embarking on a major enhancement that will see it become of a major leisure resort in its own right.

https://www.murrayshall.co.uk

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk

This country house hotel is always striving to improve

Murrayshall is a luxury 4-star country house, with 40 rooms and suites sitting within a 365-acre estate in rural Perthshire.

By Ashley Gibbins

Murrayshall House was built in 1664 by Sir Andrew Murray, the son of the First Lord Balvaird and brother of David, the Second Lord of Balvaird and Fourth Viscount of Stormont.

The Earls of Mansfield, the direct descendants of the Graham-Murrays, still reside at Scone Palace.

Visitors today find a refined country house hotel offering 27-holes of parkland golf and manicured gardens.

Dining

Fine dining is found in Eòlas (pronounced Olass), which is Gaelic for 'experience' and features the very best of Scottish Highland produce.

Casual dining in Cairns has a focus on dishes from the grill along with curries, burgers and fish and chips.

For the golfer

Murrayshall has 27-holes of golf across two golf courses. The 18-hole Murrayshall championship parkland course weaves through pine trees.

The 10-hole Lynedoch course is suited to golfers looking for a quick round, for juniors and those new to the game.

The two courses also proved excellent walking for guests looking to stretch their legs in the Perthshire countryside.

The spa

Murrayshall's SPA treatments are provided inside a newly refurbished Gate Lodge.

New developments

The Murrayshall Country Estate is always looking to improve on its offering.

This will see the introduction of 22 Armadilla pod-style cabins in early 2025.These will offer an 'eco-friendly sanctuary' for guests seeking a countryside retreat.

Those looking for a relaxing short break, a golfing weekend or something more active will find it at Murryshall.

A place of real character and traditional charm

This is a grand country manor house set in 325 acres of glorious, soul enhancing countryside in the heart of Perthshire.

By Ann Mealor

Built in 1664, Murrayshall House was originally owned by Sir Andrew Murray, and it remained in the family for 260 years.

Despite undergoing major refurbishment, the mansion has retained its character and traditional charm with its lofty ceilings, leaded windows, roaring log fires in the snug library and cosy bar and a tartan carpeted, sweeping oak staircase lined with portraits of the ancestors.

A ceremonial gong sits on the landing, which I'm sure must be used to call guests to dinner on special occasions.

Much loved by golfers, it has two parkland courses, including an 18-hole championship course that winds its way around the estate offering stunning views with every shot or stroke of the ball (or not in our case).

Despite some efforts on my part, I haven't taken to golf, but like the thought of it and enjoy looking out over or walking around a course, always mindful of the direction of play and listening out for a shout of fore!

There is some very scenic and easy hiking around Murrayshall with the chance to really appreciate and take-in the beauty of the natural landscape.

Staff at reception are happy to give directions or maps if needed and it's a great way to build up an appetite for dinner and work off a few calories.

And of course, there is always the Gate Lodge luxury spa at the end of the drive to return to, if in need of a relaxing facial or massage.

Our room

Our room on the first floor of the original building was large and comfortable with views over the gardens and grounds.

Well-furnished and decorated with tartans in varying hues of brown, green and purple, we enjoyed a few complimentary Tunnocks wafers and coffee sitting in the easy chairs and soaking up our surroundings.

Dressing gowns and wonderfully scented herb and plant-based luxury, Scottish toiletries from Ishga and Gordon Castle were provided as well as a great pair of plush slippers embellished with the Murrayshall logo.

They were so soft and comfy and among the best my feet have come across

Dinner at Murrayshall

There are two restaurants at Murrayshall with the award-winning fine dining Eolas (pronounced Olass) and the more casual Cairns.

Eolas is closed for dinner on a Monday and Tuesday so, unfortunately, we didn't get to try it.

But I see the dishes on the menu made the most of local fish, meat and game including wood pigeon, venison, partridge, trout, scallops and Scotch beef. All the very best of Highland produce.

We dined in the less formal Cairns, and it didn't disappoint.

With great views of the Murrayshall Golf Course and surrounding Perthshire hills, Cairns is comfortable and relaxed serving a selection of grills, burgers, pizzas, salads, fish & chips, pies and curry.

The staff are very welcoming and friendly and there is a gentle buzz about the place.

Ashley went for the substantial plant-based burger with fries and all the fixings, and I tucked in to a warm and spicy Sri Lankan cashew curry with coconut ginger, lemongrass and poppadoms.

However, the star of the show for both of us was our starter, which was an absolutely delicious Cullen skink.

Served piping hot with chunky sourdough, this hearty chowder filled with flaky smoked haddock, potatoes, onions and made rich with cream (and a secret ingredient as every chef has their own recipe) was heaven in a bowl.

We couldn't get enough of it.

Breakfast

Breakfast was served each morning in the Eolas restaurant.

So, we got to enjoy the stunning Scottish landscape while sipping Earl Grey tea and savouring our perfectly cooked fried eggs, bacon, sausage and all the trimmings on one morning and a fluffy tomato and cheese omelette the next.

No lunch was needed as our morning feast set us up for the day.

Whether you are a golfer, spa lover, hiker, foodie or just want some time away to clear the mind and appreciate nature, a break at the stately Murrayshall will be time well spent.

Our stop at Murryshall was as the first leg of an early autumn tour of Scotland and it certainly got the trip off to an excellent start.

https://www.murrayshall.co.uk

A palace befitting a place steeped in history

Scone Palace, the stately home of the Murrays, the Earls of Mansfield, was rebuilt between 1802 and 1807 in Gothic Revival style.

By Ashley Gibbins

Scone Palace, which is the stately home of the Murrays, the Earls of Mansfield, was rebuilt between 1802 and 1807 in Gothic Revival style.

The site on which it stands has a genuine place in history, forming the most northern border of the Roman Empire.

It was from here that Roman legions tried, and failed, to suppress the 'painted' Picts who came to rule their kingdom from Scone.

The Stone of Scone

By the 7th Century early Christians had established an abbey here although, of greater relevance to Scot's, this is where the Stone of Scone or the Stone of Destiny was kept.

This stone was integral to the coronation ceremonies of Scottish kings, with over 30 Scottish kings crowned at Scone from the 8th century when Kenneth I moved the Stone of Destiny to Scone.

This made Scone the traditional site for the coronation of Scottish monarchs, including Macbeth, who was King of Scotland from 1040 to 1057 and Robert the Bruce (1274-1329) and who were crowned at Scone.

The stone was taken to England by King Edward after his victory at the Battle of Dunbar in 1296 and placed in Westminster Abbey.

It is now housed in the Perth Museum but taken to Westminster Abbey for the coronation of British monarchs.

Visiting Scone Palace

Scone Palace is now open to visitors and offers a fascinating tour through the Palace state rooms.

There is the chance to see where and how Queen Victoria and Prince Albert dined during their visit in 1842 and the French-themed drawing room with its paintings of King George III and his Queen, Charlotte.

On display is a fine collection of porcelain, rare artefacts and French furniture.

A highlight of the tour is the chance to view a painting by Dido Elizabeth Belle and her cousin, Lady Elizabeth Murray.

Dido (c. 1761 – 1804) was born to an enslaved African woman named Maria Belle and Sir John Lindsay, a British naval officer.

She was raised by her great-uncle William Murray, the 1st Earl of Mansfield, who was the Lord Chief Justice.

Dido made a real impact on Murray's views about slavery, as he presided over hugely influential cases related to the legality of the slave trade.

This painting is notable for depicting Dido as an equal to her white cousin.

Surrounding Scone Palace is some 100 acres of woodland gardens with borders, flowering shrubs and trees for strolling or picnicking.

The Murray Star Maze is shaped like a five-pointed star, part of the Murray family's emblem, and planted with copper and green beech to resemble the family tartan.

https://www.scone-palace.co.uk/

Luxury Scotland

Luxury Scotland comprises a collection of 23 properties that offer the best in Scottish hospitality.

Belmond Royal Scotsman

The Belmond Royal Scotsman is one of the world's most luxurious train journeys.

It offers the elegance of a by-gone era with first-class accommodation and mahogany-panelled dining cars.

Departing from Edinburgh Waverley Station, the train has capacity for 24 passengers in 12 twin or double cabins.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/belmond-royal-scotsman/

Crinan Hotel

The Crinan Hotel is a family-run hotel with views of Argyll's rugged coastline.

Each of the 20 bedrooms has been designed by renowned Scottish artist, Frances Macdonald (Ryan), who is also resident artist and proprietor of the hotel.

Freshly-caught seafood is a speciality in the Michelin Recommended restaurant.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/crinan-hotel/

Cringletie

Cringletie is a historic 28 acre estate dating back to the 1660's.

It is located in a rural setting three miles from the Royal Burgh of Peebles and a 35 minute drive from Edinburgh.

Cringletie comprises a Baronial Castle hotel of 13 rooms, a two bedroom guest cottage, a fine dining restaurant and landscaped grounds,with the original Walled Garden as its centrepiece.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/cringletie/

Crossbasket Castle

Crossbasket Castle is a 17th-century castle that is now a five-star hotel some 20 minutes from Glasgow.

It has nine bedrooms, one of which is a four-storey tower suite dating back to the 16th-century, and a two-bedroom Gate Lodge.

The restaurant is overseen by Albert and Michel Roux Jr.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/crossbasket-castle/

Douneside House

Douneside House is a country house and estate set in 17 acres of grounds in Aberdeenshire.

Once owned by the MacRobert family, today it offers a luxury stay in its 11 bedrooms, apartments and holiday cottages.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/douneside-house/

Fingal

Fingal, by The Royal Yacht Britannia, is Scotland's first luxury floating hotel.

Formerly a lighthouse tender, she has been transformed into a 22 cabin boutique hotel and exclusive use venue.

Permanently berthed on Edinburgh's waterfront, Fingal is located a short distance from the city centre.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/fingal/

Fonab Castle

Fonab is a Scots Baronial castle that has been lovingly restored into Pitlochry's only five-star hotel and spa.

Nestled in woodland above Loch Faskally, it offers comfort, style and fine views.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/fonab-castle-hotel-spa/

Glenapp Castle

Glenapp Castle is a five-red-star hotel in Ayrshire, surrounded by sea views.

A Scottish baronial style property dating back to 1870, Glenapp has 21 bedrooms including a rooftop penthouse suite and an award-winning restaurant that boasts views across the Ayrshire coastline.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/glenapp-castle/

Glencoe House

Glencoe House is a five-star mansion in the heart of Scotland's most famous Glen.

It offers suite-only accommodation with panoramic sea and mountain views.

The property is located in 10 acres of private gardens.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/glencoe-house/

Glenmorangie House

This boutique Highland hotel is located close to Glenmorangie Distillery in Tain.

Located on the Moray Firth coast, this nine bedroom hotel also offers AA Rosette awarded dining.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/glenmorangie-house/

Greywalls Hotel

Greywalls Hotel is a five-star Edwardian country house located on the edge of Muirfield Golf Championship Course, some 20 miles from Edinburgh.

Built in 1901 as a luxury holiday home, it combines the ambience of a private house with the style and grandeur of a first class hotel.

There are 23 bedrooms with views of the rolling East Lothian countryside and Firth of Forth and fine dining at its Chez Roux restaurant.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/greywalls-hotel/

Hebridean Island Cruises

The Hebridean Princess is a luxury cruise ship touring some of Scotland's most remote lochs and bays.

Offering the comfort and service of a floating country house, every cruise is all-inclusive.

A maximum of 50 guests ensures there is a distinctly personal touch to every trip.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/hebridean-island-cruises/

Inverlochy Castle Hotel

Inverlochy Castle Hotel is a 19th-century castle in Fort William located in the foothills of the Ben Nevis.

Each of its 17 rooms and suites and the Gate Lodge offer views of the surrounding countryside or private loch.

The restaurant 'Seasgair', which Gaelic for cosy, warm and comfortable, is is headed up by chef Michael Roux Jr.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/inverlochy-castle-hotel/

The Isle of Eriska Hotel

The Isle of Eriska Hotel, Spa and Island is a five-star destination on a private island a few miles north of Oban.

A Scottish baronial hotel in 365 acres of private land, it has 34 bedrooms and suites and an award-winning spa and restaurant.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/the-isle-of-eriska-hotel-spa-and-island/

Kinloch Lodge

Kinloch Lodge is a historic hotel on the shore of Loch-Na-Dal at the foot of Kinloch Hill on the Isle of Skye.

This family-run hotel is surrounded by still lochs and mountains and a base for Skye's outstanding natural landscape.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/kinloch-lodge/

Knockinaam Lodge

Knockinaam Lodge is a five-star former shooting lodge in Dumfries and Galloway with a private cove and views over the Irish Sea.

It once hosted Churchill and Eisenhower as they planned the D-Day landings.

The property is now a luxury hotel with 10 bedrooms and an AA 3 Rosette restaurant.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/knockinaam-lodge/

Murrayshall Country Estate

Located in rural Perthshire, the historic Murrayshall dates back over 400 years.

Once the grand home of war hero Lord Lynedoch, it has 40 rooms and suites and fine food at its brasserie and bar.

Guests can explore the extensive grounds, enjoy 27-holes of parkland golf and a range of activities

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/murrayshall-country-estate/

Rocpool Reserve Hotel

Rocpool Reserve Hotel is a five-star Georgian mansion house hotel offeringInverness with 11 bedrooms.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/rocpool-reserve-hotel/

Sheraton Grand Hotel

The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa Edinburgh is a five-star resort in the heart of the city.

It has 269 bedrooms, award-winning dining and the One Spa urban thermal experience.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/sheraton-grand-hotel-spa-edinburgh/

The Torridon Resort

The five-star Torridon Resort is located in the Northwest Highlands on the shore of Loch Torridon.

It comprises The Torridon Hotel, The Stables and a self-catering boathouse.

A former shooting lodge, the hotel has 18 individually designed bedrooms and an AA 3 Rosette restaurant and is surrounded by 58 acres of parkland.

https://www.luxuryscotland.co.uk/hotels-experiences/the-torridon/

www.luxuryscotland.co.uk

Useful links

​https://www.murrayshall.co.uk