Experienced hand takes over reins at top Pitlochry hotel

APerthshire hotel and spa has appointed a new general manager. Fonab Castle, located in Pitlochry, has welcomed established Scottish hotelier Peter Walker to the role.

Mr Walker has taken the reins at the five-star castle hotel after 25 years’ experience in the industry at some of the north-east’s most highly rated hotels.

A Master Innholder, a Fellow of the Institute of Hospitality and a Hospitality Action Ambassador, Mr Walker was previously managing director of Maryculter House in Aberdeen for more than five years, delivering excellent results in employee engagement, guest satisfaction and revenue growth.

Before that, he also worked at Ardoe House, Marcliffe Hotel & Spa and Meldrum Country House Hotel & Golf Club, where he oversaw the repositioning of the hotel.

Mr Walker said: “Fonab Castle is a truly unique hotel with an impressive five-star offering.

“I am incredibly honoured to step into the role of general manager and I’m looking forward to working with the team who make this hotel so exceptional.

“I have had the pleasure of working at some of Scotland’s leading hotels but there is something truly special about Fonab Castle. It has been lovingly restored, which you can tell as soon as you arrive, and with a revitalising spa and a three AA Rosette awarded restaurant, it really has all the ingredients for the perfect luxury getaway.

“I’ll be working closely with the senior team and my colleagues within the hotel to ensure all guests continue to receive the very best in service and have an unforgettable experience at Fonab Castle.”

Chris Wayne-Wills, CEO of Crerar Hotels who manage Fonab Castle, said: “I have long admired Peter’s extensive experience and skills as a hotelier, and I am thrilled that he has taken on this exciting role to lead our commitment to investment at Fonab Castle.

“Fonab Castle is one of Pitlochry’s best-loved fivestar hotels and with Peter leading the team, it has huge ambitions to elevate itself even further, which is incredibly exciting.”

Fonab Castle is a truly unique hotel – I am honoured to become its general manager

DISTINGUISHED CAREER: Peter Walker has spent 25 years working in some of the country’s best hotels.