Friars Carse Hotel

While its origins go back to a 13th-century friary, Friars Carse Hotel near Dumfries is perhaps best known for its association with Robert Burns.

Former owners, the Riddell family, regularly hosted the poet and the room which is now the hotel’s Whistle Restaurant was the scene of Burn’s famous drinking competition with Fergusson of Craigdarroch.

While Friars Carse Hotel has inspired poetry in the past, there is no pressure to write a sonnet with today’s Big Deal on an overnight stay – just enjoy your break.

With this offer valid from early January to the end of March, this Big Deal would make a tranquil winter getaway and could also be used as a generous gift – especially for a fan of the Bard.

Historic hotel

Friars Carse Hotel an imposing and classically-elegant building, set in a woodland estate close to the river Nith, ideal for a romantic break.

Under two hours from Glasgow or Edinburgh, Friars Carse combines historic character and atmosphere with all the contemporary comforts of a country house hotel.

Overnight break

Available Sunday – Thursday, the Big Deal is for a couple to enjoy an overnight stay in a double or twin room at Friars Carse.

As well as a full Scottish breakfast, guests will also enjoy a three course dinner from the main restaurant menu and a glass of Prosecco each.

Friars Carse’s 21 ensuite bedrooms are individually styled and many have views over the surrounding fields, gardens or down to the river. This is a historic building so rooms vary in size and layout, giving each a unique character. All guest rooms have WiFi.

Dining in style

The Whistle Restaurant is the perfect location for a memorable evening.

The offer includes a three course dinner chosen from a menu that uses fresh, locally-sourced produce. Expect seasonal Scottish fare with a nod to the hotel’s rich heritage.

See & do

If you want to pursue the Burns theme, there are plenty of local associations with the poet in the vicinity, including a Burns Trail, an easy walk taking in the Hermitage, within the hotel grounds, and nearby Ellisland Farm where he wrote works including Tam O’Shanter and Auld Lang Syne.

Swapping stanzas for salmon, anglers may want to take advantage of the Friars Carse fishing beat on the Nith, accessed by paths direct from the hotel, with numerous spots to go after salmon and trout.

Happy guests

Previous visitors have been generous with their praise for Friars Carse, with recent TripAdvisor reviews including the following, edited for length:

‘Lovely venue. My husband and I were gifted a night at Friars Carse. It is very much a country house hotel. Very olde worlde with a lovely welcome. Our room was spacious and clean. The bar and lounge area is dominated by an open fire… The restaurant was quiet but there was still a good atmosphere. The food was cooked well and tasted lovely. We will return especially as it is dog friendly.’

‘Location, location, location. Did an overnight stay here. What a fantastic place. The location is absolutely breathtaking, located on the banks of the River Nith with private fishing available from the Hotel. Our room was comfortable, if a little dated… everywhere was extremely clean. The staff were great, friendly and very helpful. The food was delicious from start to finish. The building itself is beautiful with the inside furnished to suit its style. this may not have been the most luxurious place we stayed on our trip but it is the one we will remember most fondly.’

Ideal gift idea

A short break in Dumfriesshire is a treat at any time of the year.

Offering a romantic atmosphere and some great local cuisine, today’s Big Deal from Friars Carse would be the perfect way to spring a surprise for a birthday or anniversary.

As we noted earlier, it would also make a lovely present.