North West Castle Hotel

This was my 1st time to Stranraer. I stayed here for 2 out of my 3 booked nights as on a business trip and had to leave early. On arrival the check in was nice and easy and needed after a 9 hour drive. The staff were really nice. I got into my room and headed out straight away as needed a few things and being a Sunday wasn't sure what would be open. On return there was a "whining" noise coming g from the room next to me. Unfortunately this just went on and on and I needed to get some sleep. I went back to reception and said "Is there a dog in the room next to me?'` The really Nice receptionist replied with "Yes, is there a problem?" I explained and she was very apologetic. I asked if there was an alternative room I could move to and she said yes and moved rooms. Wow, this room (7) was huge compared to the original which I think was 76. See the photos. Although the room was nice it was very bland and "boring", not a picture on any wall. Room was Nice and warm even with the wind howling through the very old sash windows. Another thing with either of the rooms is they are stuck in the past. Not a single USB socket which in this day and age is odd so time for an update I think. The hotel also has an ice rink onsite thats used for Curling and a competition was in full swing when I went for a wonder for some dinner. I sat in the little A la carte restaurant which overlooks the rink and ordered myself a main off the gluten-free menu. I went for the pan-fried chicken, mash and veg. At pretty much £18 I was expecting a bigger portion and certainly NOT a dried out piece of chicken which was so tough around the edge I just couldn't chew it. Anyway, the was easily washed down with a can, yes you read it right, a CAN of Magners cider they serve. Anyway, I was so tired I just didn't care and when finished I took myself off to bed. The following day I headed down to the main restaurant for breakfast. With being coeliac I do have to be careful with what I eat and I always let the waiting staff know of my allergy. I had 2 slices of toast which I was told was gluten-free. I then also had to ask for some marmalade as there's non out. You have to ask for everything like that including any sauces. Anyway, had my breakfast and could only have those 2 slices of bread as they had ran out of gluten free bread,,,great. Off to work I went. So, all in all. Yes I would recommend this hotel as it is really nice it just needs updating to this Century and some pictures on the bare, plain walls would be a huge bonus. Thanks again to all the staff but please ensure you check the sauces, especially the brown sauce doesn't contain Barley as I was a little unwell and I think this was the cause.

Excellent old fashioned hotel. Great service and happy to accommodate a dog too. Lots of free on site parking. Great breakfast with gluten free options.