Balmoral Arms (Formerly Deeside Inn )

Our dog was treated so well, with staff always seeming to have a treat for her and a little goodie bag waiting in the room. The room itself was cosy, and the hotel was beautiful and attentive. We spent the evening playing board games by the crackling fire with drinks, which was so relaxing. We also ate dinner at the hotel and really enjoyed it. My partner and I had come for a night using an itison voucher I gave him for his birthday. We'd happily return.

We had a very comfortable room, and breakfast was superb, cooked to order. The staff were attentive, and the bar area was a delight. It's a lovely hotel right in the heart of Ballater. We were there for a family wedding on the Mar Lodge Estate, so didn't eat in the main restaurant. Highly recommended.

Dinner was nice, though the vegetables were a little more than al dente. The drinks were overpriced, and the place could do with a good dusting. Our room was a bit small, and there was noise from a hose outside the window. The towels weren't replaced, and there wasn't enough milk for tea. Breakfast was lukewarm. The link sausage was awful, and both the sunny side up eggs and scrambled egg were awful too. There wasn't enough fruit out.

The food was excellent, well done to the chef and team, and reception was excellent too. Staff were friendly and helpful. We hadn't been back since it was Deeside Inn, and it's had a lovely upgrade in all areas. Our allocated room was small but clean and welcoming, and the complimentary tea tray was fantastic. On a Thursday, the bar had very little available, including lager, and some wines listed on the restaurant menu were missing. At the end, an optional service charge was added to the bill. We'd already left tips, and they kindly removed it. Looking forward to returning. Regards.