The Grange Manor
A favourite with executive travellers and now increasingly the choice of discerning tourists, the hotel features an award winning restaurant - and a warm welcome from the Wallace family who own and manage it personally. The Grange Manor was built in the late 19th century for the factor (or agent) to the Earl of Zetland's local estates. The Earl's own house, long since demolished, was just across the way although the Earl was seldom resident. The factor certainly spared no expense when it came to doing up his own patch, as can be seen in the elaborate cornices and exquisite wooden staircases that grace the Grange Manor to this day. Unfortunately, when Zetland made one of his rare visits, he too saw the standard of luxury the factor had lavished on himself and sacked him on the spot ... or so the story goes. Whatever happened a hundred years ago, the building's more recent history has been as a hotel. Bill and Jane Wallace bought it in 1993. Over the years, the hotel has been transformed by the addition of a major extension at the rear and, most recently, a complete refurbishment of the bar and restaurant at the front. This mirrors the Victorian features of the existing building so well that it is virtually impossible to see where original meets new. The new reception area is light and airy, with upholstered sofas and chairs arranged in conversation groups. Guests often choose to linger here over a cup of coffee or tea while browsing through one of the complimentary newspapers. Our Chef Stephen Ward came to us from a background with major hotels in Scotland. His approach to food is simple but uncompromising: start with the finest fresh ingredients, treat them with respect, serve them with imagination and pride. See what Taste of Scotland say about The Grange Manor. He describes the Grange Manor cuisine as 'Scottish with a French flavour,' all the more appropriate since 'Le Chardon' translated is the thistle featured on our menu cover. Look for the antique brass screen, a focal point in our new dining room - it's a relic from Bill's past life as a banker. He found the 200 year old casting from a disused banking hall lying in pieces and promptly bought them to restore. 'Wallace's', the Grange Manor's bistro bar, is situated in the former stables adjacent to the main house. Carefully refurbished, it retains the original stone walls with exposed ceiling beams lending additional character and charm. |
