Restaurant review: Airth Castle, Stirlingshire

Location

The castle commands a magnificent spot overlooking the flat plains of the surrounding Airth, Falkirk and the River Forth.

First impressions

We were shown to our table by the lovely and chatty manager who looked to be thrilled to be there – a great sign.

Service

First-class service, from the manager to the waiting staff and even a member of staff constantly on patrol and on hand to offer help and clear tables.

Menu

Simple but perfectly formed. Airth clearly understand the idea of doing a small number of dishes really well. That said, all the favourites are available, from fish to burgers, steaks and macaroni cheese.

Taste

I had the 8oz Beef Burger which came on a glazed brioche bun, with cheddar and bacon. It was delicious and very filling. My partner had pan-fried salmon fillet with crushed new potatoes, spiced green vegetables and creamy Tuscan sauce. She loved it and would definitely order it again. The kids had mac and cheese and the happy silence during dinner spoke volumes.

Ambience

The dinner room is situated in a cool glass pyramid, which added a little something different to the dining experience. We arrived early for dinner so it was quite quiet before it started to fill up as we were nearing the end of our meal. By the time we left, the atmosphere was jumping. Airth is a top evening venue so the customers were clearly getting ready for a great night.

Price

Slightly more expensive than your usual standard pub grub but well worth it. £16 for the burger and chips, £18 for the salmon fillet.

P.S. Airth Castle is said to be haunted by the ghost of a nanny and two young children who died in a fire at the castle.