Gordon’s Shortlist*

In a tiny village close to the North Sea coast, Maria Watson and her son, Garry, combine gracious hospitality with ‘outstanding’ cooking at their restaurant-with-rooms. Their Victorian terrace house has an intimate dining room with stone walls and a wood-burning stove, and five comfortable, modern bedrooms, each with its own emphatic style. Thistle has Timorous Beasties’ Grand Thistle wallpaper, a roll-top bath and separate shower. A spacious suite in the annexe has ground-floor access. Garry’s well-regarded tasting menus make use of Scotland’s abundant larder, and might include Shetland turbot, and rib cap of Aberdeen Angus beef. In the vicinity, discover castles, a distillery, beaches and wildlife.