Knock Castle: Serving up a vegan's delight

You could be in search of a quiet meal out together, a weekend break in the heart of Scotland, an unrivalled wedding venue or a great place for business - you'll find Knock Castle offers exactly what you require and real value for money.

Conveniently located on the western edge of the historic Perthshire market town of Crieff, just one hour from Glasgow and Edinburgh, Knock Castle has panoramic views of beautiful woodlands and the Perthshire hills.

The service is just as natural, offering honest hospitality in a wonderful place where you can really unwind, away from the pressures of day-to-day life.

The staff want you to relax and to feel totally at home – and they hope you’ll go back time after time. They have many regular guests who treat Knock Castle as a home from home – that’s a real measure of success for them.

Attention to detail is everything. They are dedicated to service and want you to experience only the very best.

Whatever you want, just tell them ahead of your arrival and they will make it happen for you.

For more information, call 01764 650088, email reservations@knockcastle.com or go to knockcastle.com

"This was my fourth trip to Knock Castle Hotel & Spa. I'm either beginning to make myself at home or overstay my welcome.

"The hotel's location is in the heart of the Perthshire countryside. As I've said every time before, it always feels like I've escaped to a hidden gem in the heartlands, a place where I can relax, recharge and forget my troubles.

"As I've come to expect I was warmly welcomed by the super staff. No request is too big for the amazing team. From personal experience they always go above and beyond to deliver a top class service.

"This time round I brought my vegan friend along, as well as her gorgeous little chihuahua.

"Yes, Knock Castle happily accommodates non-meat eaters as well as dogs.

"On arrival there was a bottle of bubbly in my room alongside some delicious home-made chocolates. I drank and scoffed the lot because I was on holiday and that's what cheeky breaks are for.

"Dogs are allowed full-run of the hotel, except the pool area and restaurant. Whilst me and my buddy hit the hottub, our four-legged friend kicked back in the beautiful bedroom.

"That's the one thing about Knock; it's absolutely spotless and the bedrooms are stylish and extremely comfortable.

"I'm a massive clean freak. The first thing I always do whenever I'm away from home is to check the bathroom. I know I didn't have to do that at Knock as the whole hotel is sparkling.

"While the wee pup chewed her way through a bone we left her, me and my pal caught up by the pool. It was absolute bliss.

"Now for the important stuff; dinner in the Rooftop Restaurant.

"As I've stated before, owner and head chef Jason Henderson is a culinary genius. He should be whipping up a storm in Hollywood or on our television screens. Fortunately for us, he's normally found in the kitchen of the castle.

"During my latest visit Jason was actually away on holiday. However, his cooking staff did him proud and provided me with the best meal I've had since my last stay in April.

"I started with the west coast scallop ceviche served with a tian of crab and crayfish, grapefruit ice and coriander dressing.

"For my main I chose the fillet of Scottish beef with creamy dauphinoise on a bed of wild mushroom and spinach, finished with a rich red wine jus.

"For pudding, I shared a chocolate sphere that melted away with a hot sticky sauce.

"This is where the hotel knocks it out the park.

"Not every restaurant caters for vegans. Vegetarians yes, vegans no. I have no idea what either means, but my friend assured me that it can make the difference whether they can eat or not.

"Knock has a tremendous degustation menu - seven mouthwatering courses. For my friend they adapted the menu to suit her vegan tastes.

"She inhaled every course that was put in front of her - and not only is she a vegan, she's also the fussiest eater I know. Her clean plates was high praise indeed.

"If you are thinking about attending Vegfest, I suggest doubling it up with a stay at Knock Castle to make a weekend of it. Take the kids. Bring the dog.

"My sleep was deep and uninterrupted. The next day I excitedly woke for my smoked salmon and scrambled eggs brekkie. I have that every time I go.

"As I took in the breathtaking morning view of the surrounding Perthshire valley, I was a little sad as I knew it was time to leave. Although the staff had organised a spa treatment for me, I had to boost as I had commitments.

"As I drove away, Knock Castle disappearing from view in my car mirror, another great stay had come to an end.

"I left invigorated and felt energised, ready to take on the world again."

Jenness Mitchell, group content editor

Knock Castle is located just a short distance from a number of beautiful walks.

Take a leisurely stroll by the bank of the River Earn and become immersed in the picturesque woodland avenue of Lady Mary’s Walk, a coveted favourite of early 19th century landowner Lady Mary Murray.

For the dedicated walker take the challenge of the merciless ascent up one of the local Munros. At a dizzying height of 4,000ft above sea level, Ben Lawers is the 10th highest peak in Scotland and offers breathtaking views across the Central Highlands.

The package includes an overnight stay in the room of your choice, a three-course evening meal in the award-winning Rooftop Restaurant and a guided tour on the local walk of your choice.

For more info, email reservations@knockcastle.com or call 01764 650088.

Knock Castle is set in the heart of Perthshire and surrounded by eight championship golf courses.

Go and tee off at the world famous King's Course at nearby Gleneagles, home of the Ryder Cup in 2014, or why not follow in the footsteps of Jack Nicklaus or Colin Montgomery and try their iconic PGA course.

The Old Course at St Andrews is only a short drive away and has played host to some great names such as Tiger Woods. Do you think you can rival his score?

Fancy something a little more low key? Then why not try one of the fantastic local courses, hopefully your drive will be on top form and you'll spend more time with the putter than the sand wedge.

The package includes one night stay at Knock Castle Hotel & Spa, a round of golf on the course of your choice and a three course meal from the Table D'Hote menu in the award-winning Rooftop Restaurant.

Gleneagles: Dec - Mar, £160

Gleneagles: April - May 15, £200

Gleneagles: May 16 - Oct, £255

Crieff 9 hole Dornock: £104

Crieff 18 hole: Mar, Apr & Oct, £132

Crieff 18 hole: May - Sept, £138

Comrie 9 hole: £113

Comrie 18 hole: £117

Christmas Package (December 24-27)

Three nights dinner, bed and breakfast in a room of your choice, including minced pies and mulled wine on Christmas eve, a superb Christmas lunch, lunch on boxing day and full unlimited use of the leisure facilities during your stay.

Lomond Double room - £899 / single occupancy £749

Castle Deluxe - £1,099 / single occupancy £949

Junior Suite - £1,199 / single occupancy £1,049

Suite - £1299 / single occupancy £1,149

Single room - £549

Castle Lodge Room - £1,039 / single occupancy £889

Kids - £399

Christmas Lunch (served 12.30-3pm)

Why not sit back and let Knock Castle do all the hard work on Christmas day.

The team of highly trained chef will provide you with a home-cooked Christmas dinner with all the trimmings and the best part - no dishes to wash afterwards.

Hogmanay Package (December 30-January 2)

Three nights dinner, bed and breakfast in a room of your choice, full unlimited use of the leisure facilities and tickets to Knock Castle's Hogmanay gala dinner, front row seats to the legendary fireworks display and New Year’s Day lunch with a glass of Bucks Fizz.

Lomond Double - £899 / single occupancy £749

Castle Deluxe - £1,099 / single occupancy £949

Junior Suite - £1,199 / single occupancy £1,049

Suite - £1,299 / single occupancy £1,149

Single room - £549

Castle Lodge Rooms - £1,039 / single occupancy £889

Kids - £399

What better way to say I love you than to give that special someone a Knock Castle gift voucher for Christmas. Go to knockcastle.com for more info.