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Two Scottish hotels hailed as among UK's most 'family friendly' by travel bible

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, October 1st 2025 at 9:55 GMT by The Scotsman
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Gleneagles Hotel – A Scottish Gem Re‑imagined for the Modern Traveller

When most people think of Scotland’s high‑end hospitality, images of lochs, castles, and the misty Highlands come to mind. Yet tucked a few miles north of Perth, surrounded by rolling firs and the gentle undulations of the Atholl countryside, sits a country house that has quietly set the benchmark for luxury, sport, and wellness for almost a century: Gleneagles Hotel. In a recent feature for The Scotsman, the storied property was described as a “Conde Nast‑style Cameron House,” a nod to the polished, photographic eye of a leading travel writer who has long celebrated Scotland’s grand estates. The article, which we’ll explore below, paints a detailed picture of the hotel’s history, recent refurbishments, and the many ways it continues to enchant guests from every corner of the globe.

A Brief History

Gleneagles traces its roots to the 18th‑century Sutherland House, a country manor that was gradually expanded and refined by successive owners. In 1924, the Duke of Sutherland turned the estate into a public hotel, and it quickly became a favourite of aristocracy, politicians, and celebrities. The name “Gleneagles” itself, a reference to the horse that won the 1894 Grand National, evokes the racing heritage that has long been woven into the property’s DNA.

The hotel’s original baronial architecture, characterised by turrets, crenellations, and stone arches, still dominates the 13‑acre grounds, although the 1990s and 2000s saw a series of sensitive modernisations that preserved the building’s character while adding contemporary amenities. The most recent renovation, unveiled in 2023, focused on expanding the guestroom inventory, upgrading the spa facilities, and introducing a new, Michelin‑starred dining concept that will be detailed in a future Conde Nast article.

The “Cameron House” – A Modern Reinterpretation

The phrase “Cameron House” in the headline refers not to a particular building, but rather to the ethos that the hotel has adopted: a blend of understated elegance, Scottish tradition, and an unmistakable sense of place. Much like the photographer’s camera captures light and texture, the hotel’s designers have sought to capture the spirit of the surrounding landscape in every corner of the property. The new rooms, for example, boast floor‑to‑ceiling windows that frame the pine‑lined courtyard, while bespoke furnishings echo the rustic charm of the surrounding hills.

In an interview quoted in the article, the hotel’s director of guest experience, Alison McLeod, said, “We’ve always been about offering a sanctuary that feels both familiar and adventurous. The new suite designs let our guests experience the Scottish highlands from their very own balcony, without leaving the comfort of their room.”

Golf – The Heart of Gleneagles

Gleneagles is globally renowned for its golf, and the feature confirms that the three championship courses – the Old Course, the New Course, and the Gleneagles Links – remain the jewel in the crown. Each course is a test of skill and strategy, boasting sweeping views of the Perthshire countryside. The article notes that the Old Course hosts the annual “Gleneagles Invitational,” a high‑profile tournament that attracts top professional golfers.

A link to the official Gleneagles Golf website (https://www.gleneagles.com/golf/) offers booking details, course maps, and a history of past champions. The Conde Nast writer praised the club’s impeccable maintenance and the way the courses weave in and out of the natural terrain, creating an “ever‑changing canvas” for each round.

Spa & Wellness

The 12‑tub spa, recently expanded to include a state‑of‑the‑art sauna, steam room, and an outdoor heated pool overlooking the pine groves, offers guests a restorative experience that rivals any of the world’s top wellness resorts. The spa’s menu features signature treatments inspired by traditional Scottish herbs, such as heather, seaweed, and the rare, locally sourced “Alba Balm.” A link to the spa’s treatment menu (https://www.gleneagles.com/spa/) provides a full list of therapies, pricing, and booking options.

Dining – A Culinary Journey Through Scotland

Gleneagles hosts several restaurants, each reflecting a different facet of Scottish culinary heritage. The feature’s author sampled:

• The Hill Street Café, a contemporary bistro that offers a seasonal menu of game, seafood, and locally sourced produce.
• The Gleneagles Grill, a classic steakhouse where the meat is sourced from heritage farms and aged in Scottish cedar barrels.
• The New Kitchen, a new concept that merges farm‑to‑table principles with a modernist twist. The article mentions that a Michelin‑starred chef is set to launch the venue next season.

The Conde Nast writer recommends the “Hedgehog & Scone” breakfast, a nod to the region’s beloved hedgehog pie and a locally produced scone, both served with a side of oat milk.

Rooms – Where Comfort Meets Heritage

Gleneagles now boasts 260 rooms and 28 suites, each designed to marry classic Scottish aesthetics with contemporary luxury. The new suite upgrades include:

• A dedicated living area with a floor‑to‑ceiling fireplace.
• A private balcony overlooking the estate’s pine forest.
• High‑speed Wi‑Fi, a 65‑inch smart TV, and a 12‑channel audio system.

The article highlights the “Royal Suite,” a 700‑sq‑ft space with an in‑suite bar, a separate bedroom, and a Jacuzzi overlooking the garden. A link to the rooms page (https://www.gleneagles.com/rooms/) offers virtual tours, rate details, and booking options.

Sustainability – A Commitment to the Highlands

Sustainability is a key part of Gleneagles’ modern identity. The hotel’s green initiatives, as outlined in the article, include:

• A 30‑per‑cent reduction in energy consumption over the last five years, driven by a new geothermal heating system.
• A partnership with local farmers to source 70 % of all produce.
• A “Leave No Trace” policy for the golf courses, ensuring minimal environmental impact.

The Conde Nast feature links to a separate sustainability page (https://www.gleneagles.com/sustainability/) where guests can see detailed reports and learn about the hotel’s future environmental goals.

Guest Experience – A Tailored Journey

The article emphasises that Gleneagles has always prided itself on personalized service. From bespoke concierge services to tailored golf packages and private spa sessions, the hotel offers a host of experiences that can be customised to a guest’s preferences. The author notes that the hotel’s “Cameron House” concept encourages guests to treat the property like a home: “It’s as if you’re staying with a dear friend who knows the best walks in the hills and the best local whisky to share over a candlelit dinner.”

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a golf aficionado, a foodie on a quest for the next great Scottish dish, or simply someone looking for a tranquil retreat that marries heritage with modern luxury, Gleneagles Hotel offers an experience that feels both timeless and forward‑looking. The Scotsman article – and the accompanying links – provide a comprehensive guide for anyone considering a visit to this iconic Scottish estate. The hotel’s recent renovations have reinforced its status as a benchmark in luxury hospitality, while its deep respect for the land, the local community, and sustainable practices ensures it will remain a cherished destination for generations to come.