Mar Hall

Daniella Theis discovers old-world elegance with modern indulgence on the banks of the Clyde

- Bishopton

FROM the moment my husband Calum and I pulled up outside this Gothic-style mansion, we knew our stay at Mar Hall would be special.

The journey was short - just a 25-minute drive from Glasgow to the Earl of Mar Estate beside the River Clyde, outside Bishopton.

I've always scoffed at the idea of staying so close to home, yet when the 19th-century mansion appeared before us, I was utterly captivated.

For a moment I felt as if we'd stepped back in time rather than simply driven a few miles along the M8.

Climbing the carpeted staircase in the softly lit lobby, surrounded by candles and plants, I initially felt like a Victorian aristocrat attending an elegant occasion.

But as our porter led us through the building to our room, it became clear that Mar Hall has evolved from centuries ago.

Thanks to Mar Hall’s multi-million-pound refurbishment finished in spring last year, its historic charm now sits beside bold, modern interiors, with rich colours and prints from local artists and fabrics by Glasgow design house Timorous Beasties.

Our suite was the most impressive hotel room I have ever stayed in. There was a grand bathroom with a standalone tub and walk-in shower, a separate bedroom with cosy fourposter bed perfect for the frosty day, a lounge with sofas, sweeping views of the hills and the Clyde, a fridge stocked with Scottish treats, plus a grand piano.

After settling in with a drink, we visited the spa for a pre-dinner swim and sauna. The facilities aren’t the largest or most extravagant - mainly made up of a pool, two steam rooms, two saunas and a gym - but everything felt modern, spotless and quiet.