£2 million revamp to help fire-damaged hotel rise from ashes

Owners say blaze was spur for work on historic building

Owners of a Highland hotel damaged by a fire at New Year have pledged it will undergo a £2 million rebirth.

The Castle Collection, which owns the Fisher’s Hotel in Pitlochry, says there will be an extensive refurbishment project, together with the creation of 30 new rooms, giving a new total of 140.

Along with changes to the hotel’s interior, a new 150-cover restaurant will be unveiled, with the aim of creating a “landmark” eating venue for the town.

The new Castle Restaurant will include an indoor “zen garden” with a glass roof spanning all floors of the hotel for diners to admire.

Renovation work has been ongoing since January, with many period features being restored and reinstated, including fireplaces and the building’s external facade.

Brian Wishart, general manager, said: “The fire was a real catalyst in bringing the refurbishment project to fruition and our guests have been incredibly supportive of our efforts in ensuring the future of this iconic building.

“A lot of planning has gone into the improvements, which are being carried out by tradesmen who are all local to the hotel and the area of Pitlochry.

“Due to its age, everything has had to be replaced to an exacting standard to preserve the history of the building.

“The hotel has a strong reputation and is rated as one of Pitlochry’s best by visitors and this investment will allow us to enhance the fantastic experience we already offer.

“We are incredibly excited to futureproof it so it can continue for another 200 years.”

The hotel dates back to 1830 and has welcomed many famous faces, including Prime Minister William Gladstone in 1892 and world-renowned philanthropist Andrew Carnegie.

The £2 million extended refurbishment is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

The hotel is remaining open for guests while the renovations continue to be carried out.

“Due to its age, everything has had to be replaced to an exacting standard

Picture: Dougie Nicolson. The Fisher’s Hotel in Pitlochry suffered damage at Hogmanay but its owners say it has pushed them to carry out a massive refurbishment on the historic building.