Reimagining Cromlix with Kim Murray, Owner

Cromlix had been part of Andy’s family history for a number of years – his grandparents had their silver wedding anniversary here, and there’d been lots of other family events over the years. When the hotel was facing closure, Andy felt like he’d like to try to keep it open, partly because of his family ties, but also because it’s a great source of jobs to people in the local area. We now have over 70 employees working at the hotel. 

I’m not sure Andy or I either set out to be part of the hospitality industry but it’s something we really enjoy now we’re part of it.

It was all consuming. I was up here a lot during 2023, and when I wasn’t, I was looking at fabric swatches, mood boards and room plans in my office at home. I was ready for a challenge though. I’d finished having children – four is enough! And knew I wanted to make my mark on Cromlix. I’d worked closely with Suzanne Garuda (the interior designer) on my own home interior so had some idea of what I was in for. She is brilliant though and makes the whole process much more manageable and fun than it otherwise could be.

That’s a tricky question. There are so many! I am particularly proud of how we’ve transformed the billiards room – it’s this really colourful, quirky space now. We put a bright blue baize on the table which really pops when you come in. There are some interesting pieces of art in here including some skulls carved out of snooker balls. And at the back of the room we have a pick n mix selection of sweets. So that’s probably my favourite spot – right by the pick n mix!

Borrow some wellies and take a walk along the mile long driveway to see if you can spot our family of red squirrels. Allow a good couple of hours to enjoy one of our famous afternoon teas in the beautiful calm of the drawing room. And, why not give pickleball a go – we’ve got our own pickleball court with rackets and balls to borrow.