Why a stay-and-play at Meldrum House should be on every golfer’s bucket list

The Knight's Course at Meldrum House

A majestic estate in the heart of Aberdeenshire, Meldrum House offers a blend of history, contemporary comfort, and championship-level golf. 

Set within a sweeping 240-acre countryside estate near the village of Oldmeldrum, Meldrum House is one of the best golf resorts in Great Britain. The hotel makes an immediate impression with its neo-Jacobean stonework and towering silhouette, full of centuries of Scottish heritage. From the moment you arrive, there’s an overwhelming sense of stepping into a place where tradition meets tranquillity.

The hotel

Inside, Meldrum House continues to charm. The interiors are full of antique furniture, classic oil paintings, deep leather armchairs, roaring fires, and everything about the setting feels elegant. Even the more modern additions across the estate maintain a consistent aesthetic, with muted tweeds, soft greys, and tactile fabrics providing comfort.

Whether seated by the fire with a whisky, or wandering the manicured lawns at dusk, the atmosphere is peaceful, refined Scottish hospitality at its finest.

Dating back to the 13th century, Meldrum House has been meticulously restored and thoughtfully expanded over the years. Today, it offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different tastes.

Guests can choose between: 

• The Manor House, where rooms are individually styled with period details, four-poster beds, and classic views of the estate grounds.

• The Stables, which offer recently refurbished rooms that seamlessly blend modern comfort with subtle Scottish character.

• The Estate Wing, a modern addition that houses spacious, light-filled rooms overlooking the golf course, designed with comfort and practicality in mind.

• For larger parties or those looking for complete privacy, Chain Lodge, a five-bedroom self-catering property, provides a secluded and luxurious alternative.

Throughout, rooms are appointed with premium linens, plush bath robes, monsoon showers or soaking tubs, and indulgent local touches from homemade fudge to carefully selected toiletries.

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The golf

Meldrum House is home to one of Scotland’s finest parkland courses: the 18-hole Knights Course, a 7,000-yard championship layout carved through mature Scottish woodland. It’s a course that rewards thought as much as power, with doglegs, strategic bunkering, and water hazards shaping much of the experience.

Ten of the eighteen holes feature water, but the layout is forgiving enough for mid-handicappers to enjoy. Highlights include the infamous 11th hole, where 18 bunkers protect a vast, undulating green. Each hole brings with it panoramic views across the estate and surrounding countryside, adding a sense of grandeur to every round.

Beyond the course itself, the golf experience is further elevated by an outstanding practice facility, including a 24-acre driving range fitted with TopTracer technology and vast short-game areas. The clubhouse offers a relaxed spot for post-round drinks or a casual meal, overlooking the 18^th hole.

Food and drink

Dining at Meldrum House is every bit as memorable as its setting, with several distinct venues catering to different moods.

The highlight of my stay was the exclusive private dome dining experience, a truly unique offering that screams luxury. Nestled on the edge of the hotel grounds with uninterrupted views of the woodlands and golf course, the transparent dining domes are stylish, climate-controlled, and beautifully set for both lunch and dinner. As night fell, the dome transformed into a glowing bubble beneath the stars, creating an ambience that was elegant and unforgettable. Our meal was an impeccable multi-course affair of locally sourced produce, Scottish seafood, and indulgent desserts.

Inside the main hotel, the Pineapple Grill & Seafood Restaurant delivers an outstanding culinary experience, with a seasonal menu of regional ingredients and thoughtful flavour pairings. Every dish is crafted with attention to detail, from rich venison to delicate smoked fish, while the service is attentive, knowledgeable, and unhurried.

For a more relaxed experience, 1236 @ The Cave Bar, housed in a vaulted 13th-century space, offers small plates and light bites in a more casual setting. The whisky list is extensive, boasting over 120 varieties, and connoisseurs can even secure a private whisky locker for returning visits.

Facilities and service

Meldrum House offers thoughtful amenities and impeccable service to deliver a truly premium experience. The estate hosts regular afternoon teas, seasonal events, and even horse-drawn carriage rides for special occasions. Guests can take advantage of estate walking trails, scenic picnic spots, and wildlife sightings, including resident Highland cows and graceful swans that meander near the loch.

The level of service is exactly what you would expect from a property of this standard, staff are polished, accommodating, and genuinely warm. Whether helping arrange a tee time, offering recommendations on local attractions, or assisting with last-minute dining adjustments, every interaction feels personal and sincere.

Things to see and do

Meldrum House is ideally located for exploring the history and natural beauty of Aberdeenshire. Just minutes from the estate lies Glen Garioch, one of Scotland’s oldest whisky distilleries, where guided tours and tastings offer a fascinating glimpse into the local spirit culture.

For history lovers, nearby Tolquhon Castle provides a well-preserved example of Renaissance architecture, while Barra Hill offers ancient ruins and sweeping views of the countryside. The town of Oldmeldrum is also worth exploring, with charming shops, traditional pubs, and local art galleries.

Golfers with time to spare may venture to nearby Royal Aberdeen or Cruden Bay, both internationally recognised links courses. For those seeking fresh air and adventure, Bennachie, a prominent local hill with walking trails and panoramic views, offers a rewarding day out.

Book your stay and play now

Meldrum House are currently offering a ‘Club Class Golf’ package, which includes one night in a Stables room, dinner, bed and breakfast, and unlimited golf during your stay. Prices are based on two sharing a room (upgrades are available).

You can find out more, and book the offer here.

Valid 7 days a week until October 31st, 2025.

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