Windlestraw Lodge

Review

'Off the tourist trail', above the River Tweed in the Scottish borders, this pink stone Edwardian house wins plaudits again this year. The owners Alan Reid (the chef) and his wife, Julie, 'achieve the perfect balance of friendly interest with efficiency'. The candlelit open-plan public rooms are 'romantic and elegant'; the wood-panelled dining area has 'breathtaking views'. 'Tasteful decor (objets d'art, family photos). Lovely open fires. Superb food.' Another regular guest enjoyed 'a shot of divine Jerusalem artichoke soup followed by veal with calf's liver - intensely flavoured and beautifully presented'. The organic rose veal, bred nearby, is new this year, and fish and shellfish are delivered to the door from Eyemouth. 'Smart, comfortable' bedrooms (all have views) have recently been redesigned and upgraded. The east-facing Willison room has a panoramic outlook over the Tweed valley. The Mackintosh master bedroom has a king-size brass bed and original bathtub. Cooked breakfast dishes include Mull Cheddar cheese omelette; scrambled eggs with smoked salmon. The Reids cater for house parties, private meetings and small weddings; they offer one-to-one cookery lessons, and can arrange golf, fishing, shooting and mountain biking. (Patricia Burgon, 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