Enjoy New Year in Pitlochry

I hope you all had a lovely Christmas - definitely a white Christmas for most of the country this year! Here in Pitlochry we're now gearing up for the grand finale - Hogmanay, which has traditionally been celebrated even more than Christmas in Scotland.

After a night of revelry and excess, come and get some fresh air at the fantastic New Year street ceilidh, which takes place on New Year's Day from 2-4 pm in Pitlochry's main street, Atholl Road.

Hot soup, pies and sausage rolls are kindly provided by the local butcher, and mulled wine by the Pitlochry in Bloom group - a donation bucket is used to help fund the next year's ceilidh. A party not to be missed!

Liz, Knockendarroch House, an independent Pitlochry hotel

Merry Christmas from Knockendarroch Hotel

We would like to wish all our customers and future visitors a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We look forward to seeing you very soon.

Best wishes for 2010!

Liz, Knockendarroch House Hotel

Street Nativity Play in Pitlochry

On Saturday 19th December, Pitlochry's streets form the backdrop to the second annual Street Nativity Play, which was such a huge success in the town last year.

The event starts in Pitlochry Baptist Church at 5 pm, and will finish in Pitlochry Church of Scotland. In addition to the Nativity. there will be a Carol Singing procession between the two churches through the streets of Pitlochry. Come early for this popular event to make sure of a seat! Refreshments will be served afterwards in the Tryst.

In the last weekend before Christmas, Pitlochry Festival Theatre finally takes a breather before launching headlong into a full programme after the festivities. In the meantime there is still plenty to do in Pitlochry - Scottish country dancing classes in Moulin every Thursday night, live music in various pubs, and a varied choice of restaurants. The local walks are beautiful at this time of year, with a stillness in the air and the mist rising from far-away fields and woods. Look forward to seeing you soon.

Liz, Knockendarroch House, an independent Pitlochry hotel

Winter Warmers in Pitlochry

Pitlochry is looking wonderfully festive at the moment, with the Christmas lights twinkling in shop windows and everyone going about their business of getting ready for Christmas!

Getting you into the spirit of Christmas are 2 performances at the Pitlochry Festival Theatre this weekend. 'Another Night before Christmas' on Friday 11 December offers you the chance to delve into a selection of short stories, poems, essays and extracts from novels, all on the subject of Christmas. Mulled wine and mince pies will be on offer to warm you up when you arrive.

Then, on Saturday night, Swinging Winter Warmers, also at the Festival Theatre, introduces the Andy Mears Jazz Orchestra - making their Pitlochry debut. I'm sure it won't be the last time, with their blend of Big Band sounds and original material.

Make sure the children don't miss out on Santa and his Reindeer Parade on Saturday 12 December. Starting outside the Fisher's Hotel at 9.45 am, Santa and his reindeer will parade down Pitlochry High Street to Bell's Blair Athol Distillery. Once there you can enjoy the varied Christmas craft stalls and also a Coffee Morning to support our Pitlochry in Bloom campaign. The children can also enjoy storytelling sessions with Mrs Christmas. Enjoy yourselves.

Liz, Knockendarroch House Hotel

Christmas in Perthshire

If you're planning a wintry break at our lovely secluded hotel, why not take the opportunity to visit Blair Castle just a few miles away?

From now until Christmas you can walk in the footsteps of the long-departed as you take a tour through the castle, warming yourself by the open fires or with a glass of mulled wine (or both). You will come across some Christmas surprises along the way, in the shape of little elves, and perhaps find some unusual and delightful gifts in the Castle shop.

If you've been following our blogs, you will know that Pitlochry Festival Theatre puts on a wonderfully varied programme of events. On Thursday 3rd December Harry Rose and Harry McFadyen will be entertaining us all with a mix of lively Scottish and Irish music, comedy and fun. Then, in a tribute to an immigrant boy from New York, comes 'Irving Berlin: 100 Years of Song', featuring concert group Ensemble, and showing on Sunday 6th December.

Pitlochry is a shoppers' paradise with many original and quirky gifts and lots of independent shops. If you haven't yet stocked up on Christmas decorations, pop in to The Christmas Emporium at the top of the High Street, it's positively bursting with them, from the sparkly glitzy baubles to the more traditional and elegant garlands.

Remember to check our special offers to take full advantage of your break!

Have fun,
Knockendarroch House Hotel
One of the small independent 4 star hotels in Pitlochry

Pitlochry Gears Up For the Festive Season

As the nights draw in and the days become colder and shorter, some of us might need cheering up. Well, here in Pitlochry there will be plenty of fun, laughter and good cheer in the next few weeks.

'Paras Over the Barras', a hilarious tale of life in Glasgow during the Blitz, will be showing at Pitlochry Festival Theatre on Friday and Saturday, 20th and 21st November. Our special weekend rate will also cheer you up and ensure you have a wonderful stay.

On Friday 27th November Pitlochry's Christmas lights will be switched on, with mulled wine, mince pies, and a visit by Santa thrown in too. Then, following a sell-out show at the Fringe, comedian Craig Hill will bound into the Festival Theatre on Saturday 28th November, accompanied by his trusty kilt and cheeky irreverent humour.

Another wonderful way of lifting the spirits is fine food, just have a look at our sample dinner menu and you'll see what I mean. As Christmas draws closer, why not sharpen up your own culinary skills with a hands-on workshop by acclaimed chef, Bob Buchanan? This takes place on Sunday 29th November at the Festival Theatre. Remember to check out our November deals if you're planning a visit.

Best wishes, Liz
Knockendarroch, an independent Pitlochry hotel

Shopping and the Arts in Pitlochry

The busy summer season may be over, but Pitlochry continues to be a magnet for visitors all the year round.

Make the most of this coming weekend, 13th-15th November, by combining a visit to the theatre with a shopping spree at the sensational House of Bruar Sale. Take advantage of our special offers for your weekend break.

Pitlochry Festival Theatre is presenting three varied events this weekend, ranging from 'Learning to Breathe', a tale of courage and inspiration from Andy Cave, one of Britain's best-known climbers, to 'The Nutcracker Suite', performed by Moscow Ballet, sure to enthrall ballet-goers of all ages. Sunday sees Morag Stark, a renowned vocal and acting specialist, running a 'Speaking Out' workshop, a must for anyone planning public speaking.

Our mid-week deals also offer a perfect opportunity to have a relaxing few days away from it all. Autumn is a beautiful time of year in Perthshire - the rich leaf colours make for a stunning vista from our secluded luxury hotel. Come and enjoy beautiful walks around Pitlochry - you might catch a falling leaf and make a wish come true!

Hope to see you soon,

Liz,
Knockendarroch House, an independent Pitlochry hotel

Perthshire Amber Festival 2009, 30th October - 8th November

As part of the Homecoming Scotland 2009 celebrations, Pitlochry is proud to host the fifth Perthshire Amber Festival. Attracting discerning music-lovers from all over the world, this Festival promises musical gems from Dougie MacLean, Eddi Reader, Malinky and friends.

This year, for the first time, a shuttle bus service will operate to take revellers to the venues, so ditch your car and join in the fun. Take advantage of our Special Offers and stay in our luxury hotel.

Why don't you finish off your evening relaxing in front of a roaring log fire with a fine selection of malt whiskies and liqueurs, whilst you review some of the other wonderful activities Pitlochry has to offer. You might like to check out our Pitlochry Events page.

All the best,
Liz
Knockendarroch House Hotel, Pitlochry

House of Bruar Sale - sensational offer

The House of Bruar Sale is not one to miss. This year, November 13th, 14th and 15th will see an influx of people driving up and down the A9 heading for Bruar. Last year the bargains were unbelievable and with the quality of goods on offer, this sale sits in a class of its own.

Here at Knockendarroch House, we have put on a Bruar Sale special, so if you and a friend would like to make a trip of it, send us an email or have a look through our hotel offers to book your room.

Regards, Liz
Knockendarroch House Hotel - a Pitlochry Hotel

Perthshire Autumn Festivals 2009

Pertshire's award winning outdoor festivals begin this month with the Enchanted Forest and Autumn Festival taking place from the 16th October - 1st November 2009.

The theme of the Enchanted Forest festival this year is "Scottish Myths and Legends" and promises to be an historical extravaganza of sound and light - as per usual. A truly wicked event which is suitable for all ages.

The Autumn Festival will run a series of events throughout this time with street performers, story telling, ghost tours and a halloween marquee amongst the many offerings - this is truly a magical time of year to be in Pitlochry.

As usual Knockendarroch House Hotel will be involved and supporting both festivals. If you would like to book tickets for the Enchanted Forest please visit http:enchantedforest.ticketline.co.uk/.

To book accommodation in Pitlochry please send us an email or call 01796 473473.

Donald
Manager at Knockendarroch House, an independent Pitlochry Hotel

Hotel Pitlochry Deals this October

The night are drawing in and outdoor activities are getting chillier so why not book a romantic short break in Pitlochry for a couple of nights taking in a show whilst here.

Treat yourself to a premier room, choose some luxury add-ons to impress your partner and depending on whether the theatre or a musical night is favoured enjoy 2 complementary tickets to the show of your choice.

This is just the right kind of treat at this autumnal time of year and to add to the occasion a 4 course dinner, bed and breakfast are all included in these packages along with return transport from our hotel to the theatre.

What more could you ask!

Enjoy,
Donald
Manager at the Knockendarroch House Hotel Pitlochry

Pitlochry is in full swing

After the success of the Homecoming Celebrations, Pitlochry continues to heave under the weight of tourists who, despite the weather are loving the local events, entertainment and general buzz in our wee town.
Next up is Pitlochry Highland Games in the Recreation Park this Saturday from around 11 am until 5pm. This is a must for those with a passion for pipe bands, highland dancing, tug-o-wars and the usual shenanigans these days entail.
Looking forward to the whole day.

Donald
Knockendarroch House,
Small, luxurious Pitlochry accommodation for the discerning traveller.

Trip Advisor

We have just updated our site adding a Trip Advisor widget. Now you can review Knockendarroch House and let your fellow travellers benefit from your experience.

We are keen to understand what our guests like, dislike, wanted more of and basically keep on top of how to service our guests as best we can.

Donald

PS one thing that has been very popular is our Pitlochry midweek breaks - so these are also back on the website as special offers, if you love the theatre have a browse.

Short Pitlochry hotel break with complimentary theatre ticket

What could be better....

2 nights away to recharge your batteries, a luxury hotel, 4 course dinners (using local and seasonal food) fresh air, beautiful scenery and a night out at the theatre.

Our September midweek hotel packages have been released and include tickets for shows at the Pitlochry Festival Theatre including The Life of Stuff, The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, Servant of Twa Maisters and What Every Woman Knows.

We are going to try to run these each month up until the end of the year - book now as availability will be limited.

Donald,
Knockendarroch House: a central, independent pitlochry hotel

Pitlochry events for Autumn selling out quickly

Pitlochry has been incredibly busy all summer with families, friends and tourists arriving for short breaks and reunions and as I'm sure everyone is fed up discussing, the weather hasn't exactly been the hottest (although our walking and cycling guests at the hotel have been particularly pleased with the warm rather than hot summer - so it's been grand those using a little exertion!).

Autumn is now approaching rapidly - our new Autumn Hotel break has been launched - and Pitlochry is coming alive with festivals and events. Next up is the Pitlochry Highland Games on Saturday 12th September where all things tartan and scottish will be on display along with some of the local athletes.

Look forward to seeing you at the Recreation Grounds - not sure if my kilt is in a wearable condition or not though!

Donald
Knockendarroch House, a luxurious, 4 star Pitlochry Hotel

Pitlochry in August

It may not have been the barbecue summer we were told to anticipate, but the great thing about holidaying in Pitlochry is that there is so many things to do inside as well as out in the countryside - and let's face it, who minds a bit of drizzle on a dreich day when the scenery is so stunning and you have the added advantage of goretex!

August is the month for Highland Games up in Perthshire. This Saturday 8th August, these kick off with the Atholl and Breadalbane Highland Games, so here's hoping the weather holds this weekend. On Saturday 29th August, Birnam Highland Games take place, so looking forward to a month of caber tossing, kilts, highland dancing and all things Scottish.

Accommodation in Pitlochry is booking up fast this month between outdoor events, the Theater productions and it being peak tourist season, so call 01796 473 473 now to check availability at the hotel.

Donald,

Knockendarroch House Hotel - one of the more central Pitlochry Hotels

A fine read from the Pitlochry Station Bookshop

Life here in the hotel at Pitlochry is pretty good, when I'm not hosting or managing the overall running of the place there is plenty of time to explore the town. My latest find has to be the Pitlochry Station Bookshop. It's right on the train station platform and is filled from ceiling to floor in both of its rooms with paperbacks - all handed in as donations.

The ladies who run the shop couldn't be more helpful - all volunteers, they have watched it grow from a single box of books to its current range and take great delight in watching as train passengers relax with their new acquisition, especially when trains are delayed.

There is an aura of calmness about the shop, it's definitely worth a visit or if you've shelves of old paperbacks never to be read again, this is the perfect home for them.

Donald
Knockendarroch House Hotel

Summer's here at last

July has gotten off to a great start up at the hotel in Pitlochry with guests arriving from far flung places and the sun shining - summer is definitely here.

We had a couple staying in the hotel last week to celebrate their anniversary and as well as a trip to the Pitlochry Festival Theatre they booked a Sundown Safari. Being quite new to Pitlochry myself, booking the same safari is now a priority. Apparently I will be wowed by the scenery, the wildlife and witness some of the most impressive sunsets in Scotland - all enjoyed with a glass of chilled white wine - I can't wait.

Perthshire is exploding with tourists, families returnigg for their annual break and couples looking for a bit of peace and tranquility from the heat and humidity of the cities, there's always lots to attract people to Pitlochry - as always check out the things to do section on the website or visit Pitlochry.Org for more information.

Donald
Knockendarroch House
Pitlochry Hotels

July events in Pitlochry look more promising than ever!

Pitlochry and the surrounding Perthshire area host a variety of events throughout the year, but the itinerary I have just read for July 2009 must be one of the busiest ever. We list our favourite events each month on our website to keep you up to date; have a look at July's events and if something takes your fancy, book a trip to Pitlochry - there really is something for everyone.

With summer in full swing now (even if the weather is not so stable) this is our busiest time of year and we have all hands on deck for up at Knockendarroch with guests booking due to these local events, although there are a fair mix of people looking for short breaks as well as event tickets, theatre tickets and family parties.

To view the full listing of Pitlochry events have a look at the Explore Scotland website or www.pitlochry.org/whats_on/index.htm

Best Regards, Donald
Knockendarroch House, one of the small independent hotels Pitlochry

New Manager at Knockendarroch House Hotel

It's taken almost a month but I finally feel as though I've settled into my new role. Filling Heidi Orr's shoes was no mean feat but I'm starting to make my mark - Heidi has left a fantastic array of Malt Whiskey in the cellar which I've topped up. We now have no less than 35 different brands of Malt Whiskey on offer in addition to an extensive wine list. I'm now working through the new summer menu - more details to follow.

The guests have been fantastic - mainly from the UK this month although we have had a lovely mix of French, Spanish and Germans here as well as a large American party. Who'd have thought Pitlochry wa so multi-cultural!

The Hotel is taking part in the National Garden Centre voucher scheme - more details on the site http://www.knockendarroch.co.uk/hotels-specialoffers.html

Donald Thain
Knockendarroch Hotel in Pitlochry, Scotland