Glenapp Castle, an exceptional 21-bedroom PoB Hotel, a distinguished member of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux collection and holder of a prestigious One MICHELIN Key, is set to unveil its highly anticipated second restaurant, The Azalea, by Glenapp Castle in May 2025.
Positioned on the stunning Ayrshire coast in Scotland, this new dining experience is the centrepiece of the Walled Garden set within the estate’s historic Victorian Glasshouse and Bothy, which dates back to 1832.
Overlooking the renowned Azalea Pond with Monet landscapes, the restaurant promises to enhance the hotel’s five-star offering.
The Azalea, by Glenapp Castle’s stunning glass structure seamlessly blends indoors and out, offering a living horticultural dining experience for guests year-round.
This exceptional venue reinforces the Castle’s status as a global culinary destination, perfectly complementing its renowned 3 AA Rosette fine dining restaurant in the main Castle.
Led by Executive Chef Peter Howarth with support from a talented chef team, The Azalea, by Glenapp Castle offers sensory and ambient dining, where the design and surroundings reflect the seasonal menu.
Sustainability is at its core, with a “seed-to-service” ethos that highlights the Castle gardens and locally sourced ingredients including vegetables, spices, fruit and herbs.
Approximately 80% of the menu’s herbs, including curry plants and marigold leaves, are grown on the doorstep of the restaurant with the chef and garden teams working closely to ensure the freshest Scottish produce shines on every plate.
The guest experience begins with a stroll through the gardens, where they can explore the herbs and seasonal vegetables that will later feature on their plates.
This journey connects them to the origins of their meal before enjoying dishes like St. Bride’s Chicken with Wild Mushrooms and Tarragon Sauce, or Rib Eye of Prime Scottish Beef ‘Au Poivre’ with Pomme Frites and Glenapp Garden Salad.
Executive Chef, Peter Howarth, said: “The Azalea, by Glenapp Castle, will offer a truly exceptional dining experience where atmosphere meets outstanding cuisine.
“Our seed-to-table approach highlights the finest locally sourced ingredients, along with estate-grown vegetables and herbs.
“By focusing on fresh produce and ingredients, we bring the authentic taste of Scotland to every guest; the menu is also perfectly complemented by a dedicated drinks menu that showcases our signature cocktails.”
The Azalea, by Glenapp Castle will offer a relaxed, yet elegant atmosphere. Set against beautiful flowers, lush greenery, and native wildlife, the Scottish landscape plays a key role in the setting.
With its striking glass structure inviting the outside in through the UNESCO-protected dark skies, guests can enjoy a beautiful, tranquil stargazing experience in the heart of the estate.
As one of the last remaining Moncur and McKenzie Glasshouses, the historic space is divided into five distinctive dining areas featuring unique qualities such as The Fruit Room with fig and peach trees, The Vine Room with century-old vines, The Pond Room with a goldfish pond, The Atrium, filled with colour and plants and finally The May Stock Room that offers light and spacious setting.
Guests can also dine in The Bothy, which showcases a rotating collection of local artwork, adding a rich cultural touch. The Azalea, by Glenapp Castle is set to be an informal yet distinguished dining experience that upholds fine culinary standards while also becoming a sought-after venue for milestone celebrations.
Managing Director, Jill Chalmers, said: “The Azalea, by Glenapp Castle, will be a significant addition to the Castle’s established 3 AA Rosette fine dining restaurant.
“Aiming to attract a diverse range of international, domestic, and local guests, this versatile venue will be ideal for catering to celebratory milestones such as weddings, anniversaries, and other larger events, especially for those seeking a tranquil, private setting.
“The estate’s rich history, including the Victorian McKenzie and Moncur Glasshouse, one of only a few remaining in Scotland, makes it the perfect backdrop for these kinds of special occasions.”
With a focus on exceptional food, drink, sustainability, and memorable moments, the restaurant is set to become one of Scotland’s most celebrated dining destinations, showcasing the best of local produce in an immersive environment that honours both heritage, locality, and nature.
For more information visit www.glenappcastle.com / 01465 831212
