Val Penny's Hotel and Restaurant Reviews The Traveller's Guide to Hotels and Restaurants around the World

It was some years since I had been to Stirling, Scotland and I have never stayed in a hotel in the city. However, recently, when I was attending the Bloody Scotland Crime Writing Festival, I chose to stay in this central 4* hotel close to all the events. I was pleased with my choice. The hotel is situated in an old building which also house the Scottish Whisky Shop! This offers very individual style gifts and good advice if a traditional gift of the amber nectar is sought.

The hotel itself is part of The Hotel Collection Group. The only real draw back is that there is no entry that completely avoids stairs. For that reason I would not use it if visiting with a disabled friend or relative. The lay-out of the hotel is also illogical.

There are entrances at different levels. The car park entrance is the level where you will find the leisure facilities. These are very high quality.

The bar and reception are on the floor above. Another entrance is up a flight of stairs leading from Spittal Street. One floor up again are rooms numbered in the 200s and 300s. Today it is unusual to have a numbering system of this type. The first digit of the room number usually reflects the floor the rooms are situated on. These rooms are all on the same floor as the restaurant.  The decor is a little dark and in public areas, throughout, a bit dated.

Having said all that, the staff are extremely kind and helpful. The hotel is spotlessly clean and the food offered is tasty and varied. I enjoyed my stay at Stirling Highland Hotel and have no doubt that I will use it again. Indeed, I look forward to visiting next year when I attend Bloody Scotland again!

Valerie Penny