Ayrshire’s Glenapp Castle hotel keeps its coveted Michelin Key

Reaffirming its position as one of Scotland’s most distinguished boutique hotels, Glenapp Castle, at Ballantrae on the Ayrshire coast, has retained its One Michelin Key in the 2025 Michelin Key awards.

This renewed Michelin recognition is said to highlight the ‘exceptional quality, service, and consistently memorable experiences’ offered by the 21-bedroom, Relais & Châteaux hotel.

Originally designed in 1870 by Scottish architect David Bryce, Glenapp Castle was purchased by the McMillan family in 1994.

After six years of careful restoration by daughter Fay and husband Graham Cowan, the Castle and gardens were transformed into a luxury hotel, that has since earned numerous awards and accolades.

Glenapp is also known for its dining experiences, and in May 2025, unveiled its second restaurant, The Azalea, by Glenapp Castle, complementing the Castle’s private dining restaurant, which is a holder of three AA Rosettes.

Michelin Keys aim to highlight hotels that ‘go beyond accommodation to deliver memorable, transformative stays’.

“With the focus on long-term consistency and excellence, this recognition serves as a fantastic achievement for Glenapp Castle as the hotel continues its journey,” read the hotel’s statement welcoming this latest award.