We were flying out of Aberdeen on holiday and had originally tried to book one of the Aberdeen airport hotels for ease of access but, despite trying to book the hotel many months in advance, the oil companies have most of these block-booked in case they need to accommodate their off-shore workers.

So we looked further afield and fortuitously came across the Redgarth Hotel in Oldmeldrum which is about 15 - 20 minutes from Aberdeen airport or 30 - 35 mins during the early morning rush-hour.

Reception was in the bar, and although busy was quick and efficient. Rooms were spotlessly clean, large and decorated in quite a 'unique' but pleasing style. The views over Aberdeenshire - at least from the front of this small hotel - were magnificent.

Dinner was served in the bar and was very good indeed with a wide choice of local produce. The lamb was magnificent!

Breakfast was continental, but plenty of choice.

In the event that we had to fly from... more