Witchery by the Castle

The food made lunch worth it, and I’d come back to try the newer dining room. My chicken was amazing, the sort of meal you finish without noticing, and the two-course lunch special was good value at around £37. Just keep in mind that almost everything else is à la carte, even bread and water, so extras add up fast, and the regular menu costs noticeably more. The Witchery’s atmosphere is dramatic, historic, and unlike anywhere else. I was in the older room, which is very dark and somewhat cramped. A few people who came over from the newer side said they preferred its brighter, more open feel. If dinner reservations aren’t available, I’d suggest trying for lunch, though you may not get to choose the room. There were several attentive servers checking in, but that sometimes slowed things down. I waited almost 20 minutes for the bill, even though a couple nearby who finished after me had already paid and left. The staff seemed more focused on turning tables for incoming diners than finishing up with those still seated.

I expected magnificent service, food, and hospitality when I booked at the Witchery, but the staff and experience fell well short. For dinner with family, we were told each person had to order a main course costing at least £50. We couldn’t choose a starter instead. The manager came over and insisted, in a very passive-aggressive tone. It felt like a tourist trap, all fluff without substance. Scotland has plenty of restaurants that are more welcoming and want to make the experience special, so I’d suggest going elsewhere. Even at lunchtime they wouldn’t accommodate our meal without a main course. Either way, they get your money.

We went to The Witchery for Valentine’s Day 2025, and it was unforgettable. The online booking was quick and easy, the website was simple to use, and finding the restaurant was effortless. Right beside the castle, it has a special, romantic candlelit atmosphere that set the tone for the evening. We weren’t staying there, but the meal alone was exceptional. Our dinner was at 10 pm, a relaxed and intimate time slot. The food was fresh, full of flavour, and beautifully presented. Both the venison and lamb were cooked perfectly and showed the quality you’d expect from fine dining. The staff were friendly, professional, and attentive without hovering. It is expensive, but that’s expected for a place of this calibre. I also appreciated that they wouldn’t accept a tip above 15%. A special meal that lived up to its reputation.

The service made the evening feel special: everyone was warm, professional, personable, and well informed. The Witchery itself has a magical atmosphere, from the historic, moody warmth of the main room to the upstairs space that reminded me of a garden house in France. Dinner was delicious, and as a pescatarian I found plenty of culinary influences to suit me. The sole was perfectly cooked, and the apple tart with warm custard was lovely. I especially liked the balance of pastry and apples, and the Witchery's take on a classic petit four was delightful. A really sensorial experience.