On a sheltered cove on the wildly scenic Galloway coast, Sian and David Ibbotson’s stone hunting lodge is liked for its ‘tranquil setting’, its ‘professional, friendly, caring’ staff, and its fine collection of single malts. Inside the traditionally decorated 19th-century building, there are log fires, fresh flowers, deep armchairs on oriental carpets, and ‘cosy, comfortable’ lounges ideal for afternoon tea. No surprise, perhaps, that some guests come for special occasions: ‘It’s our go-to for celebrating anniversaries.’ Stay in the Churchill suite, where the former PM once stayed: the king-size sleigh bed and walk-in shower may be new, but the 100-year-old enamelled bath in which he soaked is still there. Other bedrooms – varying in size, all different – look out across the sea, with views to Northern Ireland. At dinner, chef Tony Pierce’s modern Scottish cuisine, perhaps including roast Speyside beef, Knockinaam new potatoes, garlic beignet, is ‘superb’. Breakfast well before heading off on one of the many walks from the door, or simply traipse through the landscaped gardens to reach a private sandy beach. (HH, and others)