Durn House

We stayed here for two nights bed and breakfast as part of our touring holiday of Scotland. Taking into account what I have read on TA,FB etc , I believe that this business has been taken over fairly recently by new owners. It seems that there are several areas of development underway – guest house, restaurant, afternoon teas, whole property rentals via Air B&B for family events and also as a wedding venue. The building and surrounding grounds are ideal for all of those business enterprises and I wish the new owners well and hope that everything comes together for them. As b&b customers we received a warm welcome on a very wet afternoon and were impressed by the grandeur of the building – especially the lounge, restaurant and bar areas. We had booked the Tartan Room – which in hindsight was probably a mistake as it comes with a private bathroom and not an en- suite. This was clearly marked on our booking so no complaints on that score but it is worth noting that the private bathroom is not adjacent to the bedroom but down a longish corridor and off a landing area. The bathroom wasn’t in the best condition and needs a refurb when funds allow. I believe that the majority of the other rooms are en-suite but it is worth checking when booking. Breakfast was a bit disappointing and not on a par with other places offering a similar service. There was a selection of cooked breakfast options but unusually no offer of cereals or fruit/yogurts etc which is standard fare at other places offering B&B. The second day of our stay, the table was not laid up ready for us, even though we had given our time and choices the previous evening. Also, no biscuits on the in room hospitality tray which is unusual for the price point/star rating. I have rated very good on the basis that I believe this a venue and business that is under development so improvements will follow, and whilst not everything was perfect for our stay, it is a lovely building in a quiet and pretty location with many positives.

Beware people ! seemingly my Voucher for dinner bed and breakfast was not fully redeemable! After hours of negotiation and terrible customer care through messenger! I was only allowed to have bed and breakfast. The young lady who checked us in and served us breakfast was lovely though. So heads up if you have a voucher. Otherwise the Hotel is beautiful and breakfast was really good

I booked an event that they advertised just before Christmas 2023, The event was cancelled by Durn house and was told it was due to the lack of numbers, I had booked 8 tickets , I was offered vouchers or a full refund. This is now the 25/02/2024 and i am still waiting for the refund, I have been told many lies that it was being sorted and would expect the refund and nothing has appeared. Absolutely disgraceful , dont know what else to do. The place is now under new management which has nothing to do with what's happened prior .

Outstandingly appointed Period Property. Very comfortable in all aspects- very clean and the bed was very big and comfortable. We travelled up for a one night Dinner/B&B treat to meet friends doing the same. Great location for exploring the area. The quality of the food was excellent and the staff delightful. Excellent trip and experience

Absolutely horrendous business, I had booked a Murder Mystery event for a group of friends and booked the event and rooms, however the event was cancelled on 20th November and I have been trying ever since to get a refund, I have been lied to repeatedly about dates I would receive my refund all have come and gone and no refund given, they fail to reply to phone messages or emails - absolutely disgraceful I have been more than patient and would advise NO—ONE GIVE THEM A PENNY IN ADVANCE as they will lie and avoid and not give you your money back - money I paid in full for an event they cancelled - trying to support local businesses and this is what you get - you should hang your head in shame!

We were gifted a voucher from our in-laws for an Afternoon Tea for our 47th wedding Anniversary. We decided to use it for a lunch. The weather was good for our visit. We spent some time beforehand looking around Whitehills and Portsoy. We got a warm welcome and were shown to our table in front of a nice fire. The high tea was varied and excellent quality.

Stayed a couple of nights at Durn House during a Scottish road trip. We stayed in the Dunbar Suite which is really nice, has a huge comfortable bed and a large bathroom. All the staff at Durn House were incredibly friendly and helpful - you were never left waiting around for someone to help you out. Food was the highlight. No idea who the chef is but the food was fantastic, not least the breakfasts which you can have in your room if you like. Portsoy itself is beautiful and the walks out round the coast in either direction are great. 4 stars rather than 5 because the bath in our room leaked and the TV only worked when it felt like it.

Do not even consider booking an event or wedding here. Complete disrespect for customers and disregard of any professionalism in business conduct. We are still attempting to obtain a deposit which has been held without service of any kind in return for over three months. Arrived for a tour of the venue to find the chef had walked out the night before during an event leaving people unfed, issues with faulty locks on rooms, poor shower pressure and staff not being paid. We quickly decided this was not a place we wanted to enjoy our special day. After months of phone calls, emails and approaches via multiple avenues, we are still no further forward and with no apology. Not only is this an experience I wouldn't wish on anyone, but they have advised on cash flow issues. I would strongly advise doing your homework before parting with any of your money.

I came to Durn House on a work trip and really enjoyed my stay. My work hours were very variable and unsociable, but the staff made every effort to make sure I enjoyed my stay. I had breakfast paid for, but missed it most mornings, instead the staff offered to arrange a packed lunch and made sure this was handed over to the night staff. A special mention to Chloe, who arranged this at the last minute on more than one occasion. I had dinner one evening with a colleague and the food and service was very good. The beds are very comfortable and the facilities very clean. I would certainly recommend Durn House for those looking for a romantic Scottish getaway in a secluded spot. It is also a short walk to Portsoy for cafe, ice cream, fish supper and the harbour sights.