One of the joys of staying at Muir Estate and Mid Torrie Farm is discovering the wonderful food and hospitality our local area has to offer. From cosy cafés and traditional pubs to special dining experiences, there is something for every occasion.

 

The recommendations are all places we have personally visited and genuinely enjoy. We hope you love them as much as we do. We encourage you to explore and discover your own favourites too, there really is something for everyone in this beautiful part of Scotland.

​

​

CALLANDER

​

Grace at The Meadows Guest House:  Located on Callander's High Street, Grace at The Meadows is one of the area's most unique dining experiences. This small, family-run restaurant and guest house is owned by a Canadian couple, with the wife originally from Callander, and their passion for local food and Scottish hospitality shines through in everything they do. The restaurant offers an exceptional seven-course tasting menu and, on selected days, a three-course menu, while the beautiful beer garden serves a more relaxed gastro-pub style offering. We recommend calling ahead to check which menu is available and to make a reservation, as the restaurant is intimate and a little advance notice is always appreciated.

 

The menus celebrate the very best of local and Scottish produce, including our own Muir Estate venison. The chef also forages locally for seasonal herbs, flowers and wild ingredients, creating dishes that are both inventive and unforgettable. For anyone looking for fine dining in Callander or a truly authentic Scottish food experience, Grace at The Meadows is a hidden gem and one we wholeheartedly recommend.

​

Venachar Lochside Restaurant, Sauna & Weddings:  One of our absolute favourite places, set right on the shores of beautiful Loch Venachar, the setting is simply breathtaking, with stunning views across the water and surrounding hills. Whether you're stopping for coffee and cake, a leisurely lunch or a special evening meal, it's a place that always feels like a treat. The restaurant has a relaxed elegance by day and a lovely fine-dining feel in the evenings, serving beautifully prepared dishes using wonderful local produce.  Our venison also appears on the menu. Their Sunday lunches are particularly fabulous and are highly recommended.

​

Venachar is also home to its wonderful Wild Spa experience. Guests can enjoy the lochside sauna, take a refreshing dip from the pontoon into the loch, brave the cold plunge bath, or simply sit back and admire the incredible scenery. There are both shared and private sauna sessions available, making it perfect for couples, families or groups of friends. For a little extra indulgence, you can order hot chocolate and toast marshmallows around the fire pit after your swim or sauna session. A magical experience, especially on a crisp Scottish evening.

 

Venachar Lochside is extremely popular and is often fully booked at weekends, so we would strongly recommend booking well in advance for both the restaurant and the Wild Spa. It really is one of the area's most special places and well worth a visit during your stay.

​

The Abbotsford Guest House:  The Abbotsford offers excellent food in a smart yet relaxed setting and a wonderfully warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Although it is a guest house, the restaurant is open to everyone and has become one of Callander's favourite places to eat. Their Sunday roasts and afternoon teas are particularly popular, and the menu showcases the very best of local Scottish produce, including our own Muir Estate venison. We also love that their sister property, The Tower in Crieff, shares the same passion for quality local ingredients. Expect delicious food, friendly service and a genuine Scottish welcome.  We've eaten here many times over the years and are always happy to recommend it.

​

The Waverley Hotel:  A friendly and lively pub in the heart of Callander, The Waverley is the perfect spot to catch the latest sport, enjoy a pint and tuck into traditional pub favourites. Popular with both locals and visitors, it has a welcoming atmosphere and is a great choice for a relaxed pint with your friends.

​

Mhor Bread & Bakery: A true Callander institution. Expect artisan breads, delicious sandwiches, irresistible cakes and excellent coffee. Perfect for breakfast, lunch or a mid-afternoon treat.

​

The Riverside Inn:  A friendly and lively pub in the heart of Callander, The Waverley is the perfect spot to catch the latest sport, enjoy a pint and tuck into traditional pub favourites. Popular with both locals and visitors, it has a welcoming atmosphere and is a great choice for a relaxed pint with your friends.

​

Desh at The Crags:  The traditional Scottish bar at the front and the authentic Indian restaurant at the rear make The Crags one of Callander's more unique dining experiences. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and reviews regularly praise the friendly service and flavour-packed dishes. Whether you're stopping in for a pint in the cosy bar or enjoying a curry after a day exploring the Trossachs, it's a relaxed and popular spot with both locals and visitors alike.

​

The Crown Hotel:  A true local favourite, The Crown is a warm and welcoming pub serving traditional pub classics in the heart of Callander. With regular live music, friendly staff and a lively atmosphere, it's the perfect place to enjoy a pint, a hearty meal and a taste of genuine Scottish hospitality.

​

The Atrium:  A lovely spot for lunch, coffee and cake, serving homemade soups, sandwiches, daily specials and delicious baking. You can eat your order inside.

​

​Thackray House:  Set in beautiful grounds by the River Teith, Thackray House offers elegant dining in a stunning historic setting. Whether you're looking for a special evening meal, afternoon tea or a leisurely lunch in the charming Strawberry Fields Bistro, it's a lovely place to visit and only a short drive away.

​

DOUNE

​

The Woodside Hotel;  Recently renovated and beautifully presented, The Woodside serves excellent quality pub food in a lovely setting. Ideal for lunch, dinner or simply coffee and cake.

​

The Coffee Bothy at Deanston Distillery;  One of our personal favourites. Delicious food, wonderful coffee and homemade cakes, all set beside the River Teith. Why not combine your visit with a tour of Deanston Distillery or nearby Doune Castle?

​

Buttercup Café;  A charming little café with excellent coffee, homemade cakes and plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Browse the nearby independent shops while you're there.

​

Café Circa;  Located within the Scottish Antiques Centre, Café Circa offers delicious food and makes the perfect stop if you enjoy antique hunting.

 

BLAIR DRUMMOND

 

The Smiddy Farm Shop;  A fantastic destination for food lovers. The award-winning butcher, artisan produce and excellent café make it well worth a visit. They also stock Farrah's Gelato, produced just a couple of miles away, and proudly sell our own estate venison.  Enjoy a tasty breakfast, brunch or lunch. Thoroughly recommend.

​

KIPPEN

​

The Wood House:  A delightful farm shop and café with a relaxed atmosphere and charming outdoor teepee seating. Perfect for coffee, lunch or a leisurely browse.

​

The Cross Keys:  A wonderful gastro pub full of character and old-world charm. Excellent food, a lovely beer garden and well worth the short drive.

 

ABERFOYLE & PORT OF MENTEITH

​

Nick Nairn's:  Just fifteen minutes from Muir Estate, this is one of our favourite places to eat. Family-friendly, warm and welcoming, with beautifully prepared food using quality Scottish ingredients. Surprisingly good value and always a treat. Don't miss Julia Nairn's delightful cook shop while you're there.