The Kithmore is close to St Andrews’ iconic golf courses
A row of elegant Georgian townhouses now house a luxury boutique hotel, writes JULENA DRUMI
Bookings are now open for The Kithmore, St Andrews’ new luxury boutique hotel opening its doors this June following a £7.5 million transformation of the former Ardgowan Hotel. Set across three elegant Georgian townhouses, designed by renowned local architect George Rae, it is close to The Royal and Ancient Golf Club and the iconic Old Course.
The Kithmore is part of the Marram Collection, which includes the boutique hotel The Leddie in Aberlady, East Lothian and The Bushmills Inn in Northern Ireland.
The owners have sympathetically restored its many original features, while an extension has increased capacity to 44 bedrooms. They have installed bespoke furniture and furnishings, customised joinery, oak timber flooring, plush rugs and an original frieze design features. The artwork throughout has been curated to add character to each individual space showcasing local artists.
All ensuite bathrooms feature Italian stone porcelain tiles - Ceppo di Sabbia - inspired by Italian terrazzo, which complement glazed ceramic wall tiles. Crafted free-standing vanity units with under-mounted basins and luxury state-of-the-art German brand AXOR and Hansgrohe brushed black brassware and dual-head rainfall showers also feature.
The reinstatement of historic planters will enhance both privacy and the streetscape with a subtle illuminated central entrance staircase set back from the street.
Guests arrive at a reception area featuring herringbone timber flooring layered with plush rugs, lounge seating, original art and a bespoke red marble reception desk that anchors the lobby. Hand-painted signage by a local signwriter Thomas Payne of Thomas Paints guides guests through the property.
A key aspect of The Kithmore’s appeal will be its standalone bar and restaurant, which is accessed by its own street-level entrance and extended landscaped terrace. The interiors feature cosy snugs with comfortable banquette seating, enclosed by timber panelling and leaded glazed screens.
Lighting and artwork have been considered to create an atmosphere that feels refined yet homely, lifted from the building’s heritage but unmistakably contemporary. Climbing honeysuckle, planters with native flowers and grasses, feature yew trees, wall lighting and uplighters create an inviting social Terrace setting that feels both sheltered yet connected to the street.
The aim has been to create a space that’s social and inclusive with a view to becoming the new go-to venue on Playfair Terrace for both visitors, students, golfers, tourists, and the local community.
Recruitment for key management positions is now underway, with further recruitment for front line roles closer to the opening in June.
Kathryn McNairn, general manager, said: “From the very beginning, The Kithmore has been about creating a refined yet welcoming retreat, rooted in the character of St Andrews and delivered to the highest design specification throughout.
“Inspired by the Scots word ‘kith’, meaning friendship and familiarity, we have designed a luxurious hotel that feels elegant but never formal - a true home from home.
“Whether guests are here to play world-class golf, explore the town, enjoy exceptional food or simply slow down and relax, our hotel offers a thoughtful alternative to larger resorts, with quality, comfort and attention to detail at its heart. As we head towards our opening in June, we’re now open for bookings and recruiting the team who will bring this vision to life.”
Rooms at The Kithmore are priced from £415 per night this summer, with bookings now open at www.thekithmore.com
This is a sponsored feature
Leave a Reply