YSW on tour | Laid-back luxury

wedding pavilion in the private gardens? With seating for up to 180 it’s a superromantic setting and we love that it has its very own moat and fountain, as well

The extra touches

Sitting on the Ayrshire coastline, The Gailes Hotel & Spa is at the heart of familyrun company SimpsInns; and from the moment we step inside, the attention to detail the group takes such pride in, is apparent. We’re treated to a warm welcome that doesn’t stop with the humans in our party. We’ve brought our two dogs along and entering our room we’re thrilled to find dog bowls, treats and a ‘Do not disturb the dog’ sign. It’s a beautiful sunny evening when we arrive and we’re able to sit out on the gorgeous new terrace to enjoy a cosmopolitan or two before dinner. The Gailes has invested almost £3m over the last two and a half years and the terrace is just one part of the new offering. Believe me, the refurbished interiors are just beautiful, with clean lines and contemporary furnishings creating a feeling of understated elegance.

Say ‘I do’

Throughout the refurbishment there’s been a strong emphasis on weddings, with the rooftop conservatory among the areas that have enjoyed a glow-up. This light-filled space is the perfect setting for your vows with its plantation beam in the ceiling bringing the outdoors in, and sliding barn doors that open to reveal a beautiful lake mural.

If you’re tempted outside, why not host your ceremony at the gorgeous new as a walkway over the water – a perfect spot for your newlywed photos.

Inside you’ll love the Lagavulin Suite which was refurbished in time for owners’ Karen and Malcolm’s son Jack’s wedding to wife Sophie. Decorated in neutral tones with lighting that nods to the art deco, this really is a showstopping space, seating up to 240 guests for your banquet.

The VIP treatment

With all these spaces to enjoy, you’ll love that The Gailes operates only one wedding per day and can offer exclusive use of the rooftop conservatory for ceremonies, the Lagavulin Suite for the wedding banquet and evening reception, the Talisker Bar for the drinks reception and the private gardens with the wedding pavilion so you can truly feel centre of attention. And while the hotel has a list of recommended suppliers, you’re free to bring in whoever you like – the staff will happily accommodate viewings with them.

The hotel has 42 bedrooms and suites and your loved ones will be delighted to hear that once you’ve booked your wedding at The Gailes you’ll receive a promotional code that allows your guests a 15% discount on rooms the day of the wedding. However, make sure you reserve the Penthouse for yourselves. This jawdropping suite is made up of the Arran Suite and Ailsa Suite together and is just stunning. It includes a private spa bathroom, two living areas, two bedrooms, a dedicated make-up station and kitchen.

As well as the Penthouse, The Gailes boasts the award-winning Si! Spa and it’s fabulous! We visited the thermal suite and it was so relaxing we could have stayed for hours, switching between it and the hot tub in the outdoor spa area. But we had to move on to the restful treatment room for the most amazing back massage and facial. We thoroughly recommend you book in a relaxing spa day and bubbly afternoon tea as a tonic to wedding planning!

And speaking of added activities, why not stretch your wedding fun over a few days with a round of golf on the Wee Gailes 9-hole golf course or try out the hotel’s Toptracer driving range? The Gailes’ Coast Restaurant & Bar is perfect for dinner the night before, while they can organise a wedding brunch the day after for guests who just don’t want the party to end!