DESIGN CORNHILL CASTLE LODGES

shower room and panoramic views of the Scottish countryside, plus sofa-bed in the living area, meaning each lodges can sleep up to four.

Guests can tailor their stay with bespoke in-lodge drinks & dining packages which include continental breakfast hampers delivered to the lodge every morning.

Fluffy bathrobes, smart TVs, Nespresso coffee machines and wifi are just some of the touches that ensure guests never need to leave the lodge, however they can venture up to the main castle to dine in the Ghillie restaurant or enjoy a drink in the hotel bar at their leisure.

Commenting on the new development at Cornhill Castle, Carlton Graham, operations manager said:,“We are delighted to be launching our new lodges just in time for summer. Our team has put a huge amount of thought into the lodge design and we’re confident the stunning location and attention to detail will really set us apart from the competition. The location, stunning views and high spec amenities ensure guests can enjoy a calming and luxurious short break all year round.”

Opening for dogs: Post-pandemic business benefits and tips

As life begins to return to ‘normal’, many are excited to go out and explore again – and some alongside their four-legged friends, who were a lifeline to many during lockdown.

New research by The Kennel Club* shows that 64 per cent of Scots are worried about dogs bought during the pandemic as restrictions lift. Similarly, almost half (49 per cent) agree that there are not enough businesses accommodating man’s best friend, and more than half (57 per cent) would like to see more dog-friendly places. 62 per cent also agree it’s better for businesses, citing benefits such as more people visiting if their dog can come too, and that dogs make the atmosphere more friendly.

Nationally, more than one in two (55 per cent) dog owners claim they would happily stay longer and spend more if their dog was with them when out socialising. Clearly the burgeoning market of dog owners want to introduce or re-introduce their dogs to the world as we return to normality, and this presents a previously untapped opportunity for establishments who currently don’t welcome four-legged punters.

Becoming a dog-friendly establishment doesn’t need to be a difficult task but does require a plan. As experts in all things dog, The Kennel Club has shared with us some advice and tips to consider before you start welcoming four-legged guests.

Make it clear which areas of your hotel, restaurant or pub are dog friendly and which are off limits, and make sure that all guests are aware of the rules

Decide whether you want to have a limit on dogs per guest, and if bringing a dog along means guests pay a little extra

It might be useful to group those staying with dogs in similar areas in one segment, as most dog owners can be understanding towards a bit of a doggy noise

Consider whether you want to only make the rooms dog friendly, or also any restaurants or bars, if you’re a hotel. Make sure that it’s clear which areas are dog friendly, including information online or in leaflets in the room, lobby or reception

Think about putting together a welcome pack for dogs staying at your hotel to show you want to make their stay ‘paw-fect’. You can include things like dog treats, toys, or even a personalised water bowl. Consider having dog beds available upon request or in dog-friendly rooms too

Consider whether you’d like to provide a dog-sitting service for guests when they cannot take their dog with them for the day or evening

Make sure there’s fresh water available for dogs upon arrival and during their stay

Dogs will need access to an outside area, where they can roam around and go to the toilet. Also ensure to put dog bins outside so owners can clean after their dogs easily

Make sure that any areas that dogs will have access to, including the rooms, are safe and free of any plants and items that are toxic for dogs – like mini chocolates. You can find more information about items and plants which are toxic to dogs on The Kennel Club’s website: thekennelclub.org. uk/health

Consider preparing a special map of the local area with dog-friendly places to visits

Create an ‘Open for Dogs’ policy that can be uploaded online and displayed to ensure guests and those considering visiting with their dog are aware. You can find a template policy on The Kennel Club’s Open for Dogs online hub: thekennelclub.org.uk/openfordogs

You can also order The Kennel Club’s Open for Dogs sticker to display in your window to make it clear furry lodgers are welcome in your hotel, pub or restaurant.

For more advice and resources for pubs, restaurants, and hotels to help improve dog-friendly credentials and reap the benefits, The Kennel Club has launched its Open for Dogs campaign: thekennelclub.org.uk/ openfordogs * Figures based on survey of 2,001 general consumer and dog owner respondents, carried out for The Kennel Club’s Open for Dogs campaign by Censuswide, in June 2021.