Cally Palace Hotel & Golf Course

Cally Palace Hotel & Golf Course has been part of Scottish history for centuries, right on the edge of Gatehouse of Fleet by the Solway coast. The land originally belonged to the Stewarts after Margaret Craigie, heiress of John Craigie, married Sir John Stewart way back in the 14th century. Over time, the estate passed through the Lennoxes and Murrays, each family leaving its mark.

The first castle here probably went up during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms in the 1600s, though there might have been an even older building before that. By the mid-1700s, the laird had a chance meeting with architect Robert Mylne while traveling in Rome. They worked on plans for a new mansion, and in 1763, the classical Cally House you see today was built, just a short walk from the old castle ruins.

In the 19th century, the estate changed hands a few times before Elizabeth Murray-Baillie inherited it. Facing money troubles, she sold it to the Forestry Commission in 1933. A year later, it opened as a hotel and even hosted evacuated children from Glasgow during World War II. Today, Cally House still welcomes guests, letting you soak in all that history while enjoying its grand surroundings.

Cally Palace is an Elizabethan-style mansion with a rich architectural history. Much of the interior reflects the 1837 alterations by John Papworth, giving the rooms a refined, elegant character. Inside the entrance hall, framed by two massive marble pillars, you’ll notice the deeply coffered ceiling and elaborate marble detailing. The main public rooms feature intricate plaster cornices, while the dining room is decorated with a charming fruit-and-flower cornice. The bow-ended drawing room impresses with its coved ceiling and beautifully carved timber and marble chimneypieces.

The hotel has 56 spacious bedrooms with lovely views over the estate and the surrounding Dumfries & Galloway countryside. Outside, the 18-hole parkland golf course is a highlight, with stunning sights of Cardoness Castle, Rutherford’s Monument, and the Fleet Estuary, making it one of the finest courses in South-West Scotland. Guests can also enjoy a swimming pool, spa, saunas, and a gym. The historic interiors and easygoing atmosphere make it a pleasant place to stay while visiting South West Scotland.

Dining at Cally Palace highlights Scotland’s seasonal produce, with fresh meat, game, fish, and local ingredients shaping the menu. The chef keeps things thoughtful and flavorful, creating meals that feel relaxed yet well-crafted, earning the restaurant an AA Rosette for its culinary standards. The setting leans romantic, so it works nicely for couples or anyone who enjoys a warm, intimate atmosphere.

The bright conservatory is an easy place to unwind, whether you have just finished a round of golf or simply want a quiet moment. The adjoining cocktail bar serves drinks, snacks, and light bites throughout the day, so it’s a handy spot for a break at any time. The restaurant also offers vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, and the children’s menu is available every evening.

Afternoon Tea

If you are celebrating something, catching up with friends, or simply treating yourself, the Bow Lounge hosts a classic afternoon tea. You get a generous spread of sandwiches, cakes, tarts, tray bakes, and warm scones with cream and jam. The pace is slow and relaxed, and the setting makes the whole experience feel like a little escape in the middle of the day. Prices start at GBP 23.95 (USD 31.92) per person, or you can choose a Sparkling Afternoon Tea for GBP 28.95 (USD 38.58) if you want to make it feel extra special. Bookings need to be made at least 24 hours in advance. Children’s high tea is served in the conservatory at 5:15 pm and must be booked ahead.

Cally Palace Hotel & Golf Course gives you a beautiful setting for your big day, whether you picture a ceremony inside one of the elegant lounges or out on the manicured lawns that surround the house. A dedicated wedding coordinator helps you plan every detail. You can count on thoughtful touches throughout the day, like white linen, a cake stand, a personalized table plan, and a dance floor for the evening party. You also get a complimentary tasting for two, so you can choose your menu with confidence.

The chefs offer a range of dishes and handmade canapés, and they are always happy to tailor menus if you have something else in mind. The classic drinks package covers a welcome drink of Prosecco or beer, a glass of house wine with the meal, and another glass of Prosecco for the toast. If you want to make the celebration feel even more personal, there are fun upgrades you can add. Popular choices include a five-course tasting menu, hair and beauty treatments, a Scottish malt whisky tasting, cocktail making, movie night, pyjama parties, fizzy afternoon tea, karaoke sessions, crafty activities, gin tastings, and even golf days.

The Bow Lounge

Venue type and style: This grand, airy room has a high vaulted ceiling with soft gold accents and lovely views across the gardens. The space is perfect for wedding meals, gatherings, or even pre-wedding ceremonies.
Capacity: Up to 80 guests

The Louis Lounge

Venue type and style: Bright and elegant with period artwork, an original fireplace, and tall ceilings, this room looks out toward the garden and woodland. It works beautifully for wedding meals and ceremonies.
Capacity: Up to 140 guests

The Dining Room

Venue type and style: A classic, elegant dining space with wide garden views and room to host a larger celebration.
Capacity: Up to 150 guests

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Cally Palace Hotel offers plenty to keep every guest entertained. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the hotel’s own 18-hole parkland course, considered one of the finest in the area. Open to both hotel guests and visitors, it’s perfect for a relaxing golfing break. As you play, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Cardoness Castle, Rutherford’s Monument, and the Fleet Estuary. For those wanting a little extra, the Cally Golf Pass offers added perks for a full golfing experience.

For relaxation, the heated swimming pool is ideal for a leisurely dip, while the spa bath and saunas are perfect for unwinding after a long day. Adjacent to the pool, the small but well-equipped gym makes it easy to keep up your workout routine, with a treadmill, cross trainer, rowing machine, stationary bike, and multi-gym with weights.

If you prefer lighter activities, you can enjoy a game of snooker, pool, or table tennis within the hotel. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the beautiful local countryside around Gatehouse of Fleet. Take a stroll or a longer walk through the vast woodland of Galloway Forest Park or enjoy the Red Deer Range nearby, where you can spot wildlife in a natural setting. Cally Gardens and the Specialist Plant Centre are another highlight, offering a treasure trove of rare and exotic plants gathered from around the world.

And do not miss Cream O’Galloway, just a short drive away. Cream O’Galloway makes luxurious homemade ice cream using real ingredients, with dairy cows and calves kept together. Treat yourself to flavors like strawberry, vanilla, or chocolate served in a classic waffle cone. Whether it is golf, nature walks, wildlife spotting, indulgent treats, or a bit of everything, Cally Palace makes it easy to enjoy the best of south-west Scotland in style.

Visiting Cally Palace Hotel over Christmas? You can enjoy several days of festive food, activities, and seasonal cheer. Guests arriving on 23rd December are welcomed with mulled wine, mince pies, and a three-course dinner. Christmas Eve offers the choice of a walk or a round of golf, followed by a falconry display and an evening dinner with live entertainment. On Christmas Day, enjoy a boozy breakfast, champagne and canapés, a five-course lunch, and afternoon games or the King’s Speech. Boxing Day includes afternoon tea with music and a lively Silent Disco, concluding with a Black Tie Gala Dinner on 27th December.

Cally Palace Hotel can host both business events and personal celebrations, offering flexible spaces suitable for anniversaries, birthdays, baby showers or conferences, seminars, or board meetings. A dedicated event coordinator is on hand to manage every detail, from room setup, menus, and flowers to equipment, entertainment, and guest transport. For team-building, the hotel can arrange a variety of outdoor activities, including archery, clay pigeon shooting, golf competitions, guided walks, mountain biking, sailing, and Highland Games. The team can also design themed events with tailored menus and décor, such as James Bond nights, Calypso carnivals, or dress-up parties. Guests are encouraged to get in touch with the team beforehand for any special requests or customizations