Bridge of Lochay Hotel, Killin

Reviewed by Barbara Lockhart, Birgit Wefers, Bailey & Tok from Invergowrie

When we arrived at the Bridge of Lochay Hotel we were pleased by its setting and looks, a proper Scottish inn, just across the bridge from Killin golf club and right next to the river. After a warm welcome we were taken to our spacious room. This had all the extras dog owners could have asked for – two dog beds with matching towels and two sets of bowls.

After a brief tour of the bar and restaurant, the dogs and I took an evening stroll towards Killin and along the old pier road. Loch views, the ruins of Finlarig castle, the company of a grazing deer and a safe environment to walk off lead kept all three of us happy. I returned just in time for an utterly delicious dinner, prepared from local produce and generous enough for proper hill walkers. Unfortunately, we did not have space for dessert, but the coffee with homemade shortbread more than made up for this.

And don’t get me started on the tomato chutney in my burger – it’s a shame they don’t bottle and sell it.

With the sun still up, we had a nice time chatting with some of the other guests in the comfy lounge, before another short walk with the dogs.

Our beds proved very comfortable, so after a good night’s sleep, even waking up to grey skies couldn’t dent our spirits. This was further helped by a very tasty breakfast, served by Bob with friendly conversation and some handy tips on what to do with the day. While the weather got worse, we kept feeling sunny thanks to the warm welcome, good food and comfort at the Bridge of Lochay. Bob, Amanda and their helpful staff proved true to their motto, ‘nothing is too much trouble’.

Prices from £45 pppn inc. full Scottish breakfast