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Summary of reviewsThe Craignelder Hotel stands out as a picturesque retreat along the seafront, attracting guests with its stunning views and strategic location near Stranraer's ferry terminal. The hotel's prime position appeals to travelers attending local events or heading to Northern Ireland, complemented by convenient access to dining options and delightful offerings at its on-site restaurant. Visitors cherish the beautiful vistas, particularly from certain rooms like room 9, enhancing their stay with breathtaking scenery.
Guests consistently praise the breakfast experience, highlighting the diverse options ranging from hearty full Scottish breakfasts to lighter selections. The use of locally sourced ingredients contributes to the quality and taste of the meals, while the friendly staff provide excellent service, often with a smile. The breakfast's popularity is matched by the hotel's dinner offerings, which receive commendations for variety, taste, and reasonable pricing. The restaurant enjoys local acclaim, evidenced by its frequent recommendations.
Accommodation at Craignelder Hotel is another lauded aspect, with rooms described as spacious, clean, and well-furnished. Large en-suite bathrooms and quality amenities contribute to a comfortable stay, bolstered by stunning views of the loch or bay. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, minor suggestions for improvement include better bathroom fixtures and addressing the functionality of electric showers.
Cleanliness throughout the hotel is praised, with guests noting the immaculate condition of both rooms and common areas. The beds are generally appreciated for their comfort, despite mixed feelings about mattress firmness. Staff at the hotel, including the owner Hammy, play a significant role in enhancing the guest experience, known for their friendliness and willingness to accommodate special requests.
Though parking can be somewhat limited, with tight spaces during busy times, guests find nearby alternatives manageable and are often willing to overlook this minor inconvenience due to the hotel's other appealing qualities.
Overall, the Craignelder Hotel is celebrated for its breathtaking views, delicious meals, comfortable accommodations, and exceptional service from its staff, making it a favored destination for travelers seeking a relaxing and enjoyable getaway by the sea. Show more
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Hotel with Parking
The Craignelder Hotel provides excellent parking with a spacious, free-of-charge on-site car park. Free private parking is available without reservation, and accessible parking options are also provided, making it highly convenient for guests.
Hotel where Extra Health & Safety Measures Have Been Taken
This hotel likely follows strict cleaning and sanitization procedures, with a focus on guest room hygiene and public area disinfection. Staff are likely trained in health and safety practices, and measures may be in place to promote social distancing. Hand sanitizing stations are likely provided for guests.Arrival
Do visitors need a health certificate (i.e. a test) prior to arrival? No
Do you perform temperature checks upon guests' arrivals? No
Do you ensure contactless check-in/check-out? Other
Do the hotel's main entrance doors open automatically? No
Can guests access their room entrance directly from outside the hotel without entering the lobby? No
Cleaning
Are the rooms left vacant for a minimum period of time after a guest checks out? Yes, for 24 hours.
Is there an option for no in-room housekeeping during a guest's stay? Yes
Do you allow fresh air to enter the rooms by leaving the windows open between departures and arrivals? Yes
Does the cleaning crew wear appropriate personal protective equipment? Yes
Do you sanitize the common areas? Yes, multiple times per day
Are guests' luggage and belongings disinfected upon arrival? No
Are luggage trolleys sanitized after each use? No
Do you sanitize guests' keys/cards? Yes
Do you provide thorough cleaning of the rooms? Yes
Are all employees trained and monitored to follow a cleaning protocol? Yes
Do you use disinfectants approved by regulatory authorities that kill the COVID-19 virus? Yes
Do you use electrostatic sprayers with hospital-grade disinfectant to sanitize surfaces? No
Do you disinfect high touch areas in guest rooms including light switches and door handles? Yes
Limitations
Are elevator rides limited? There are no elevators
Is furniture in public areas arranged to allow more space for distancing? Yes
Are guest rooms allowed to be accessed until check-in after they were cleaned? No
Does the hotel operate at a limited capacity? Yes, up to 70% of the rooms can be occupied
Does the hotel accept domestic bookings only? No
Do you allow people who don't stay or work at the hotel to enter its premises? Yes
Do you allow people who don't stay at the hotel to enter the rooms? No
Have you altered check-in / check-out hours to allow more time between departures and arrivals? No
Accessories
Do you provide medical kits (masks, gloves and sanitizer) to the staff? Yes
Do you provide medical kits (masks, gloves and sanitizer) to the guests? No
Do you provide disinfecting wipes in each room? No
Are there hand sanitizing stations throughout the hotel? Yes
Is there a sanitizing sprayer for shoes outside each room? No
Double or Twin RoomRoom type will be doubled unless specified otherwise.
Double RoomFeaturing free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. The double room features a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, a carpeted floor, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, as well as sea views.
Single RoomProviding free toiletries, this single room includes a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. The single room provides a tea and coffee maker, a wardrobe, a carpeted floor, heating, as well as a flat-screen TV with streaming services. The unit offers 1 bed.
Large Double Room
Guest Reviews
8.6
Very Good
Location
Nestled along the picturesque sea front, Craignelder Hotel boasts an idyllic setting that continues to captivate its guests. Its convenient location appeals to those traveling to the town of Stranraer for events like the oyster festival or for those planning ferry travel to Northern Ireland, being within easy reach of the ferry terminal. Visitors can expect to enjoy stunning views from their comfortable rooms, especially delightful for room 9's guests.
The hotel is strategically positioned close to various dining options, including its own restaurant and another notable one nearby, ensuring guests can easily satisfy their culinary cravings. Helpful and friendly staff contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, where cleanliness and comfort are prioritized. In the mornings, guests can indulge in a delicious breakfast, providing a perfect start to the day. Craignelder Hotel offers a combination of breathtaking views, convenient proximity to local attractions, and exceptional service, making it a desirable destination for travelers seeking relaxation and comfort by the sea.
Breakfast
Visitors to Craignelder Hotel have delightful experiences when it comes to the breakfast offerings. Guests consistently celebrate the quality and taste of the breakfast—often described as excellent or delicious. The appealing range of options includes both hearty full Scottish breakfasts and lighter choices, catering to diverse preferences. Many reviews highlight locally sourced ingredients, like sausage, black pudding, and eggs, all cooked to perfection. The breakfast is also noted for being plentiful and filling, ensuring guests start their day satisfactorily. Service is another aspect that guests appreciate, as the friendly and accommodating staff enhance the dining experience, often serving the meal with a smile and always ready to assist.
While the breakfast generally receives stellar feedback, there is a minor suggestion that an earlier start time might benefit those catching early ferries to Northern Ireland, although the hotel thoughtfully offers takeaway breakfast bags for such occasions. Overall, the breakfast at Craignelder Hotel is celebrated for its quality, variety, and the pleasant atmosphere in which it is enjoyed.
Dinner
Craignelder Hotel has garnered impressive praise for its dining experiences, particularly the dinner offerings. Numerous guests have commended the hotel for providing excellent evening meals, describing them as delicious, tasty, and of great quality. Many have highlighted the dinner menu as having a great variety, plenty of choice, and being reasonably priced, with several guests considering it highly recommended.
The local popularity of the restaurant is frequently noted, suggesting it stands out in the area and speaks volumes about the quality of the meals. Diners have often experienced fantastic and exceptional cuisine, with food described as first-class. Guests frequently pair their commendations of dinner with similar praise for breakfast, frequently calling both meals top-notch and excellent.
Not only is the food well-received, but the service also receives acclaim for timely delivery by friendly and chatty staff, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. Regular diners at the hotel have repeatedly expressed their satisfaction, suggesting that Craignelder Hotel is a favorable choice for those seeking good food and great service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Rooms
At the Craignelder Hotel, guests are consistently impressed by the high standards of accommodation, finding the rooms to be both clean and comfortable. Many emphasize the spaciousness of the rooms, often complemented by large en-suite bathrooms and quality furnishings. The hotel rooms are described as spotless and well-kept, reflecting the elegant refurbishment seen in the photos. Guests also appreciate the thoughtful amenities provided, ensuring a comfortable stay.
A frequent highlight is the stunning views offered by many of the rooms, overlooking the loch or the bay. Rooms with bay windows or those perched with a view of the ferry port receive particular mention for their picturesque outlook, making them a perfect retreat for travelers looking to unwind and take in the scenery.
Although most feedback is overwhelmingly positive, a few guests suggest the addition of towel rails or hooks in the bathrooms to enhance convenience. Overall, the combination of beautiful views, cleanliness, and comfort makes a stay in the Craignelder Hotel's rooms a delightful experience for travelers.
Beds
At the Craignelder Hotel, guests frequently praise the comfort and quality of their beds, making them a highlight of their stay. Many travelers have reported enjoying an exceptionally good night's sleep, with some noting they slept for an impressive duration thanks to the comfort provided. The beds are often described as comfortable, and the quality of both the bed and pillows receives positive remarks. A king-size option is also available, which adds to the appeal for those seeking ample space to rest.
However, feedback on the firmness of the mattresses is mixed. Some guests prefer the softer mattresses, while others found them too soft for their liking. Similarly, while the majority appreciate the pillows, there are occasional comments about their size and discomfort.
Overall, while individual preferences for mattress firmness vary, the Craignelder Hotel generally succeeds in offering a restful sleeping experience, reinforced by its quiet rooms and attentive staff.
Cleanliness
Craignelder Hotel stands out prominently for its immaculate cleanliness and comfortable accommodations. Guests consistently note the pristine condition of the rooms and common areas, describing them as spotless, clean, and tidy. The beds are highlighted as comfortable, further enhancing the overall restful experience. The hotel, conveniently located near the train station and the township, is praised for being a quiet retreat despite its accessibility.
In addition to the high standards of cleanliness, the hotel is complimented for its excellent food, with several guests enjoying delicious meals during their stay. The staff receive positive mentions for being friendly and helpful, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. While the hotel is noted to be simple and slightly dated, it is largely described as offering a good value stay with ample cleanliness and comfort.
Some minor issues are mentioned, such as a bathroom cabinet that may be difficult to reach for shorter guests and the absence of ground floor bedrooms. However, these do not overshadow the overall positive impressions of cleanliness and service. There are particular concerns raised about the functionality of the electric shower concerning water pressure and temperature regulation. Nonetheless, the overall consensus highlights Craignelder Hotel as a clean, comfortable, and well-maintained option for travelers seeking tranquility and quality service.
Staff
Nestled in a picturesque location, the Craignelder Hotel stands out not only for its stunning surroundings but for its exceptional staff too. Guests have consistently praised the hotel for its welcoming atmosphere, largely attributed to the team. The staff, including the owner Hammy, are renowned for their friendliness, hospitality, and attentiveness. Many guests have noted the remarkable service, highlighting instances where staff went above and beyond – whether it was providing a packed lunch for those departing before breakfast or ensuring that nothing was too much trouble during their stay. While some younger members of the team were particularly commended for their excellence, there were mixed feelings about the older staff’s accommodating nature. Nonetheless, the overwhelming sentiment remains positive, with the term “amazing” frequently used to describe their experience with the hotel’s personnel. Efficient, hospitable, and consistently pleasant, the staff at Craignelder Hotel contribute significantly to the charm and appeal of this establishment, creating lasting memories for all who visit.
Parking
Nestled in a convenient location for travelers heading to the ferry port, Craignelder Hotel offers a warm welcome with friendly staff, clean rooms, and comfortable beds. Despite these positive aspects, guests frequently note the challenge of parking at the hotel. The parking facilities are quite limited, often causing tight spots, especially when the dining room is busy. While on-site parking is available, a portion of the area may be closed, and some may require safe off-road parking alternatives. For those staying at the house a few doors down, stunning views of the water make up for the need to find parking along nearby streets. Although parking can be somewhat restricted, guests sometimes find these limitations manageable, with various on-road parking options nearby. Overall, while the parking situation requires a bit of consideration, the accommodating service and prime location make the Craignelder Hotel a notable choice.
No, Craignelder Hotel doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Craignelder Hotel.
No, Craignelder Hotel doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Craignelder Hotel.