Deeside Hotel

Review

Set back among trees on the road to Braemar, this Victorian village house was thought 'superb value, especially for an autumn break' this year. Owned by Gordon Waddell (the chef) and the 'unfailingly pleasant' Penella Price, it is a member of the Green Tourism Business Scheme. There are log fires in the 'small, comfortable' library, 'well supplied with books and recent magazines'. The bar has over 40 whiskies. In the restaurant, whose conservatory area overlooks the walled garden (where red squirrels may be seen), there is always a vegetarian option, though 'the emphasis is on meat - I enjoyed some particularly good pheasant'. Herbs and soft fruit are home grown; breads, seafood and meat come from local suppliers. The 'short, fairly mundane' main wine list has a 'more interesting - and expensive' supplement. A children's menu is available. Bedrooms, 'inoffensively' decorated, have generous storage space, books, toiletries and home-made shortbread. There are king-size beds and a two-room family suite with its own entrance. 'The low prices put any minor housekeeping shortcomings into context.' At breakfast, eggs are free range, and 'I enjoyed a fine Achiltibuie kipper'; marmalade is home made, but there was 'carton orange juice'. Good for walking, fishing, distilleries and Balmoral. (Alan and Edwina Williams, Andrew Wardrop, and others)

This hotel accepts discount vouchers which entitle readers to a 25% discount off their normal B&B rate. Each printed copy of the Guide contains six vouchers worth in total about £150. BUY THE GUIDE