The County Hotel

This was literally a spur of the moment, jump in the car and go for the night, as we had things to do next day in the Banff area and wanted an early start. What a find! The hotel was safe, clean, comfortable and Eric and Vida incredible hosts. We wished we could stay longer and are hoping to go back soon. The added delight for us was the superb food in the evening and at breakfast. There is a special deal and pub-type food available for residents, but check out the A La Carte before you decide anything! We opted for Cullen Skink (local delicacy - fish soup to you and me), langoustines, lamb and monk fish, but really the basic words don't do justice to the lovely taste and the care and attention at both meals was matched by the satisfaction of empty plates. A wee shout out to Connon, a waiter with a quietly professional manner and great service skills. After a comfortable night, we were faced with perfectly-cooked Scottish breakfast and were still so full from the night before that we left it as late as we could. Clean plates again and, really, we didn't want to leave. Can't say enough about this wee hotel with its lovely owners who go out of their way to make everyone feel so special...just like the food they serve.

We came to Banff for a family funeral and chose the County based on its location. It turned out to be an excellent choice for the 6 nights of our stay. The Georgian building is lovely, the room was clean and comfortable (a credit to the housekeeper), the service was great, but what made the County stand out was the owner, Eric and his wife Vida. Nothing was ever too much trouble as far as Eric was concerned, and we enjoyed hearing about his interesting life. But the unexpected bonus was eating the amazing food Eric cooked for us. From Cullen skink, to local fish with chips, to homemade beef steak pie (with so much succulent meat), to lamb knuckle - which was new to us and now thoroughly recommended by my husband and me. And we mustn't forget to mention the full Scottish breakfast! In fact my only regret was that our car was really full for our return home, otherwise I would have been tempted to kidnap Eric and take him back with us. We would really like another helping of his delicious lamb knuckle!!

Stayed one night here. As I suspect others have perhaps said, the rooms are a bit dated but clean. The staff are really nice and attentive. The food was excellent, a really good choice of local bar food and also French cuisine, very tasty.