Fonab Castle Hotel

Fonab Castle's story began in 1892, when it was built for Lieutenant Colonel George Glas Sandeman. He was a member of the prestigious Sandeman family, who are also the namesakes of the Sandeman brand of wines. Although designed much like a traditional defensive castle, it served as a luxurious family estate that embodied the wealth and prestige of its owners.

Although the castle took no part in the bloody rivalries of medieval Scottish Clans, it still played a historically significant part as an auxiliary hospital for the British Red Cross during the First World War. Later in the Second World War, the castle once again provided sanctuary, this time to children who were evacuated from locations that were at risk of bombing raids. Upon the war's end, the castle came into the ownership of the North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Board, unfortunately falling into neglect during this period.

It wouldn't be until 2022 that Fonab Castle was brought back to life as the Fonab Castle Hotel by the Crerar Hotels brand. Since its revival, the castle has been restored and expanded, now boasting wellness facilities and exquisite restaurants.

When Fonab Castle was built in 1892, then-owner Lieutenant Colonel George Glas Sandeman spared no expense in making an impressive residence that reflected his family's influence. He had it designed in the Scottish Baronial style, a type of Gothic Revival architecture that represented Scottish Romanticism during that era. Its exterior was made with red sandstone, featuring medieval elements like turrets and battlements, creating an edifice that stood out due to its contrast with Loch Faskally and the surrounding forests.

When it was acquired in 2022 by Crerar Hotels, its new owners saw the value of preserving its historic aesthetics. The modern extensions sought to maintain a sort of continuity with the castle's romantic design, and were thus constructed using timber, giving the estate a look of a classic medieval stronghold. As for the interior spaces, the Castle Fonab Hotel embraces tradition and modernity equally. Rooms are designed with an old-world charm, using period-style furniture, while decor and color schemes follow contemporary conventions that take into account color theory and psychology.

Sandemans

Named after the castle's original owners, Sandemans is a fine dining restaurant awarded with 3 AA Rosettes by The AA, the UK and Ireland's most recognized hospitality ratings body. The restaurant offers not only impeccable Scottish gastronomic cuisine, but also makes use of the castle's Scottish Baronial architecture to craft a romantically enchanting atmosphere suited for a sophisticated mealtime.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 6 pm - 8:30 pm
Dress code: Smart Casual

1892 on the Loch

Savor amazing Scottish gourmet cuisine while enjoying a relaxed and casual dining atmosphere at 1892 on the Loch. Chef Paul Tyrell crafts a wonderful menu that incorporates seasonal flavors and cultural favorites, impressing guests with innovative takes applied to familiar favorites.
Opening hours: 7 am - 10 am (Breakfast); 12:30 pm - 5 pm (Lunch); 6 pm - 9 pm

Lounge Bar

If you've got places to go but need a quick bite to eat, grab one at the Lounge Bar. They've got a nice selection of energizing coffees and tea blends, as well as delectable sandwiches that will fill you up while out biking or hiking around Perthshire.
Opening hours: 12 pm - 5 pm

Afternoon Tea

Treat yourself to a few hours of sinful pastries and relaxing teas by availing the Afternoon Tea tasting experience. You'll have a selection of venues from which you can enjoy the delightful afternoon session, namely 1892 on the Loch, the Lounge, or one of the dining Pods overlooking Loch Faskally.
Availability: 2 pm - 4 pm

The Pod

A private dining venue for up to six guests, the Pods at Fonab Castle Hotel provide a cozy and luxurious setting with incredible views of Loch Faskally. Menus offered are based on 1892 on the Loch's, as well as the Afternoon Tea service.

Enticing wedding packages are available at Fonab Castle Hotel, letting you celebrate your fantasy wedding in an actual Scottish castle. The management provides a dedicated events team to coordinate with you on what you need, and will try their best to fulfill your vision as much as possible. They also have a variety of charming add-ons on offer, including activities like whisky tastings at the local distillery and having an official Scottish piper for the ceremony.

Sandemans

Privatize the restaurant and celebrate your special day in a gorgeous private dining hall. Booking Sandemans will also let you hold quirky receptions, such as a wedding breakfast.
Capacity: 40 guests

Whisky Lounge

A cozy historic setting suitable for small weddings, the Whisky Lounge provides a cozy and intimate atmosphere where you can celebrate with only your loved ones.
Capacity: 10 guests

The Pods

For very small wedding parties involving the couple and their very closest and dearest. You'll also have beautiful Loch Faskally as your backdrop for the ceremony and reception.
Capacity: 6 guests

Exclusive Castle Booking

If you're planning something grand and unforgettable, you may also book the whole castle and be the king and queen of your little kingdom for a day. You and your guests will have access to the 42 rooms and suites, the facilities, and you can also arrange various exciting activities for everyone to try.
Capacity: 100 guests

Events and Experiences

While staying at Fonab Castle Hotel, you can treat yourself to a wide variety of interesting and exciting activities available at the property and through partner services. Try your hand at traditional falconry, practice marksmanship sports like archery and clay pigeon shooting, or indulge in a whisky tasting session. Indulge in relaxing and rejuvenating sessions at the Woodland Spa, which offers a variety of facilities, treatments, and therapies.

The concierge can also arrange outdoor activities such as outdoor treks with Land Rovers, 4x4 vehicles, and ATVs. For the daredevils and thrill seekers, you can go bungee jumping off Garry Bridge in Killiecrankie or white water rafting on the various rivers around Perthshire. The region is also a hotspot for anglers challenging the local marine life, and the hotel even provides the equipment and salmon fishing expertise of local fishing veterans.

Of course, you can still explore and do your own thing if you've got an itinerary in mind. Perthshire is home to historical clans and their castles, as well as villages with centuries-old industries. Pitlochry, where Fonab Castle sits, is home to the Blair Athol Distillery, which offers distillery tours and whisky tastings. There's also Blair Castle, Clan Murray's stronghold and residence, and was the site of many battles.

Fonab Castle makes itself available for a range of corporate functions and private events, offering a variety of venues suitable for gatherings large and small. The hotel also provides packages for corporate outings and team-building activities, such as off-road trips, highland games, and team challenges in various locations.

Sandemans

Ground floor restaurant named after the founder of the castle.
Capacity: 40 guests

Whisky Lounge

The historic entrance of the castle, now converted into a cozy lounge and proudly boasts fine collections of whiskies.
Capacity: 18 guests

1892

Modern brasserie restaurant with lovely views of Loch Faskally.
Capacity: 80 guests

Lounge Bar

A panoramic venue with views of the lake and surrounding forest.
Capacity: 100 guests

The Pods

Small, intimate dining pods that are suitable for small team gatherings and dinners.
Capacity: 6 guests

Exclusive Castle Booking

Full booking of the castle, which includes access to its rooms and facilities.
Capacity: 100 guests