The Auldgirth Inn is situated just a few miles away from Dumfries, just off the A74 and situated beautifully within the green hills of the Nith Valley. A charming establishment that offers a unique blend of history, exceptional dining, and a delightful staying experience.
Auldgirth Inn is renowned for its rich heritage and timeless appeal. With a focus on providing guests with a memorable journey through time, the Inn takes pride in showcasing its historical significance while ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit. Indulge in the sumptuous dining options, where traditional Scottish cuisine meets contemporary flavors, and savor the warm and welcoming ambiance.
Whether you choose to spend a night or two in one of their cozy rooms or simply drop by for a memorable dining experience, Auldgirth Inn promises an unforgettable journey filled with history, delectable cuisine, and a cozy retreat for all travelers.
It was a cloudy day on arrival but that in no way dampened my spirits. If any of you know this area of southern Scotland you will probably agree with me that it is an area of stunning landscapes and an absolute pleasure to drive through.
History of Auldgirth Inn, Dumfries
Dating back to the 16th century, the inn has served as a prominent stopover point for travelers throughout the centuries. Its historical charm and unique architectural features add to its appeal.
It was a popular resting place for travellers over the last 500 years or so and was known for its warm hospitality. The Inn was a travelling stop way before the days of cars and rail. A place to stop and refresh for those passing through as well as a local for all who farmed the land around. The things the walls of this building will have seen and heard are going to be remarkable as you can imagine.
One of the notable stories associated with the inn is its connection to Robert Burns, the renowned Scottish poet. It is said that Burns frequented the inn, he farmed just down the road at Ellisland Farm. During his visits he could well have found inspiration for his poetry within its walls. From roots in this village ‘Auld Lang Syne’ is known around the world of course, especially at New Year!
There was a major refurb to the Inn in 1804 which brought the building to how you see it today. Now, the current owner, Robert McAleese has truly transformed it into the luxury you see today, for a perfect getaway stay but keeping the charm and age of the building coming through. A remarkable job done. Auldgirth Inn is still going from strength to strength after all the centuries.
Dining Experience at Auldgirth Inn
I had heard well before my visit of the food here at Auldgirth Inn and how it brings people flocking back time and time again. The reputation was huge.
I was soon to find out why that was so. A tasting menu extravaganza at the Auldgirth Inn will be one of those food experiences I will not forget in a hurry. A delicious menu in every way, that is for sure.
As I entered the dining room my appetite was whet and I could not wait to taste the delights.
The Tasting Menu
6 courses of delight to look forward to and each one completely different, like going on an adventure with the senses.
From seating you are able to see the chefs working hard to ensure you are brought a meticulously prepared and delicious plate of food at every course.
Of course I took the option to pair wine with each course, had to be done. Prosecco and oysters to start with after snacks? Yes please…
Oh, and when I say snacks I do not mean a nibble, I mean a few samples of lovely snacks. For instance heritage tomato with ricotta and olive. Paired with a gorgeous glass of Prosecco.
Prosecco and oysters to start with after snacks? Yes please……
Some people are not oyster fans. I can say that I am but the seasoning on these took them to another level if I must say. Perfect.
The next course was Beef Carpaccio with Asian dressing and wasabi. This is the course shown in the main image at the top of this article. It was definitely one of my favourite courses.
The beef was perfect and the dressings topped it off wonderfully.
Of course the sparkling shiraz was lovely and welcome too!
Now then, from now on I kept finding it difficult to name a ‘favourite’ course. Because each course was a favourite in its own way.
No course clashed. Take the next course for instance. Pork Belly with scallops and wild garlic.
Pork Belly is something I regularly have and now when I have it after this it can seem plain if you know what I mean.
Another aspect of the meal here I loved was that you got a real explanation, often by the chefs themselves, with each course, about how the food was sourced and the inspiration behind them.
Not a big speech to spoil the flow but a real friendly and enthusiastic chat. You can really see how here, your comfort and enjoyment is a priority.
Now then, the venison course… Venison, shallot and gnocchi.
Yummy, very yummy! I also loved the gnocchi which was cooked to perfection. What got me even more was that even cooking it perfectly whilst it was sealed around some succulent pulled venison inside.
The wines were getting gloriously deeper and red as the meat meals came so you can imagine the tastebuds were getting a full on treat all the way along.
It was time for the dessert, chocolate fondant with raspberry sorbet.
What a finish. I am not always a dessert eater but I could not let this go amiss could I, the colours and taste were magical.
What I found was that every portion size for each course must have been worked out so well to make you completely satisfied, not full and certainly not hungry at the end that is for sure.
Breakfast
The culinary delights of the stay were definitely not over of course. There was breakfast to look forward to and if the food above was anything to go by then I was certainly going to give myself the rare treat of a full breakfast here.
Gosh! amazing. Time to get out for a hike now in the local countryside and Dumfries fresh air.
Honestly, I had heard by word of mouth how good the food is here at the Auldgirth Inn, now I believe every word.
Staying at Auldgirth Inn
On arrival and after taking a moment to take in the building itself you are greeted already by what I can truly describe as wonderful staff. The genuine making you feel welcome is something that you are struck by when you arrive and they are proud to have you stay there.
Then came the entrance to my room. Wow! As you can see from the main image at the top of this post, that was taken from the door, the luxury and attention to detail is plain to see. As you look around the room you can see touches of modern class combined with keeping the age of the building apparent.
Each direction I looked in this huge room had touches of class together with character. From the gorgeous bath located beyond the end of the bed to fluffy bathrobes, ornaments of all kinds on the old fireplace to leather chairs to relax in.
The bath may have been in the room. This room was truly appropriate as a honeymoon suite too, and yes the luxury and attention to detail continued through to a shower and toilet room that again was full of style and character.
Conclusion
The Auldgirth Inn, Dumfries has left a mark on me. A beautiful historic building, in a beautiful setting with beautiful rooms and first class food.
Would I stay here again? Without a doubt I would, and I shall definitely be coming here again. There is so much in the area to explore too and I look forward to seeing more of it.
