Luxury Hotels Atlas / Places / United Kingdom / Ballantrae / Glenapp Castle
Glenapp Castle
Ballantrae, South Ayrshire, United Kingdom · Independent · Grand Luxury
Built in 1870 by architect David Bryce for James Hunter, Glenapp Castle is a premier example of Scottish Baronial architecture featuring sandstone battlements and soaring turrets. Today, it is owned by Paul and Poppy Szkiler and remains a family-run estate set on 110 acres of woodland and gardens. After falling into disrepair, it was meticulously restored by the McMillan family and opened as a luxury hotel in April 2000.
- 21 rooms
- Opened 2000
- Neighborhood: Smyrton
- Rooms from 269 sq ft (25 m²)
About Glenapp Castle
- It holds both AA Five Red Stars and a MICHELIN One Key, ratings awarded in 2025 to the restored Scottish Baronial estate.
- Gourmet dining at the Michelin-keyed Azalea Restaurant and Castle Dining room.
- Hebridean Sea Safari on the hotel's private boat to explore local islands.
- 36 acres of private gardens designed by Gertrude Jekyll within a 110-acre estate.
- Entry-level rooms start at 269 sq ft (25 m²).
History
Built in 1870 by architect David Bryce for James Hunter, Glenapp Castle is a premier example of Scottish Baronial architecture featuring sandstone battlements and soaring turrets. After falling into disrepair, it was meticulously restored by the McMillan family and opened as a luxury hotel in April 2000. Today, it is owned by Paul and Poppy Szkiler and remains a family-run estate set on 110 acres of woodland and gardens.
The setting
1.7 miles from Ballantrae. 15 miles from town of Stranraer.
Experiences
- Exclusive hire — Exclusive use of the castle, gardens and grounds for a private wedding for 2 to 70 guests, with a variety of ceremony locations indoors and outside.
- Vow renewal and proposal — Vow renewal and proposal celebrations for intimate occasions.
Amenities
- Gourmet dining at the Michelin-keyed Azalea Restaurant and Castle Dining room
- Hebridean Sea Safari on the hotel's private boat to explore local islands
- Over 65 on-site activities including falconry, archery, and stargazing
- 36 acres of private gardens designed by Gertrude Jekyll within a 110-acre estate
- Opulent suites with antiques, art, and many featuring views of the Firth of Clyde
- Exclusive use options for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations
- Sauna
- Tennis
- Pet-friendly
Awards
- MICHELIN One Key (2026)
- AA Five Red Stars (2025)
Open Glenapp Castle in the atlas for live weekend rates, photos, and the full folio.