The Glenburn Hotel, still bringing them “doon the watter”
This grand old lady. The Glenburn Hotel, originally opened in 1892 as Glenburn Hydropathic. It was Scotland’s first spa hotel. If you look to the left hand side of the hotel you will see the chimney which served the laundry and steam heating.
Rothesay was once a popular holiday destination for Glaswegians who would take a boat “doon the watter” for their holiday. Tastes have changed, however the town of Rothesay is still a popular day trip destination as it takes around an hour and a half to get from Glasgow to Rothesay by railway and ferry.
Wemyss Bay railway station is a showcase to how popular holidays here were. Hoards of Glaswegians must have lined up here waiting for their ferry.
Location
The Glenburn Hotel sits on hillside looking out over the Cowal peninsula and the town of Rothesay on the Isle of Bute
It is around a 10-15 min leisurely walk to Rothesay ferry terminal and the centre of Rothesay.
Character
This category B listed building has history at every turn. The terrace, with its decorative cast iron railings draw you to linger and appreciate the glorious views.
Inside, you will find large, wood panelled public areas and corridors which appear to be never ending.
Rooms
There are 121 rooms ranging from classic twin, to seaview, family rooms and suites. We stayed in a twin room as it was part of a deal.
A spacious room with flat screen tv (unfortunately not many channels), hospitality tray (no biscuits ) and a chair beside the window, to admire the view (?) At least the tiles and gutters were clean!
The bathroom comprised of a combined bath and shower. The depth of the bath was appreciated after walking. Toiletries are provided.
The decorative style is dated, however still functional.
Facilities
There is a limited amount of free parking on site. Wifi is available throughout the building. TV available in the lounge area
Food and drink
Food is available in the bar and the restaurant. Our deal included £40 spend in the restaurant, which we utilised on our first evening. The restaurant looks out over the sea below.
Menu for dining
A glass of Short Mile Bay Rose and some tap water for the table. There was a notable smell from the glasses when halfway through drinking, we overheard another table mentioning this.
We picked fried panko brie wedges served with a cranberry sauce and one of the sides – onion rings, as another table had them, and Marks eyes lit up!
Crisp panko coating, perfectly gooey cheese. I could happily have sat with these all night.
Freshly made crisp onion rings.
Our mains were Stornoway black pudding with fondant potato, served with poached hens egg and peppercorn sauce.
Scampi, salad, fries and homemade tartare sauce. A large portion, so much so I had to ask ole hollow legs to help me finish it. Crispy coated, plump fish.
Breakfast
Breakfast is served in what looks like was traditionally the main dining room.
Hot breakfast items with fried and boiled eggs, beans, mushrooms, potato scones, link sausage, lorne sausage, hash browns and tomatoes are available buffet style.
Fresh fruit juice, yoghurts, a basket filled with pastries, white and brown bread for toasting plus plates filled with ham and cheese are available. There is also a selection of cereals.
Verdict
We were pleasantly surprised by The Glenburn Hotel. With its size and age we had expected a more fawlty towers break. Thankfully, it wasn’t and instead we had comforting food, spectacular views and a hotel trying its best to bounce back from a shaky few years.
Just a little more love would make The Glenburn a special place to visit.
Where
Glenburn Hotel, Mount Stuart Road, Rothesay, Isle of Bute
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