Top food at a fine small, central hotel that thinks it's a big one

The centre of Perth doesn’t offer many highly-rated hotels... odd, since it’s now such a foodie destination. But Parklands gets our Highly Recommended grading and good food is at the core of our view. It enjoys an elevated site, gardens and terrace overlooking a wide green sweep of South Inch Park, living up to its name. Parking is free, safe. The Victorian town house has been extended over the years with contemporary, relaxing Bistro of the Year 2009 No. 1 The Bank conservatory-style to the front; we love No. 1's honest, wonderfully-prepared quality food and easy atmosphere, lunch or dinner. Acanthus (weekends only; or perfect for private use) is the stylish fine dining restaurant, serving some of Perthshire's best cuisine. Step inside the popular hotel and the décor in the hall, reception and lounge is all very trad; bedrooms however are modern, well-equipped with flatscreen TVs, CD players, powerful free wi-fi, up-to-date bathrooms. Corporate clients like the unpretentious hotel, good service and meeting facilities. It’s an individual, well-run, appetising choice.

E S S E N T I A L   I N F O
> Of the 15 rooms, 9 are superiors; the park-facing Oakbank room is arguably best; big bathroom
> City of Perth bedroom has leather tub armchairs, big bathroom with twin sinks plus a corner spa bath
> Moncrieff is a spacious superior room; big flat TV, 100+ channels; roomy loo; squeaky floorboards
> Two superior rooms, Almond and Atholl, are on the ground floor for easy access
> We like Friarton, a nicely-done, park-facing standard double with large bathroom and well-lit mirror
> Letham is a contemporary, rear-facing standard twin room; nice contemporary décor; TV a bit small
> No. 1 The Bank is an extremely good bistro; terrific food lunch and dinner; everything's quality
> Acanthus’ dinner menu is exciting; talented head chef Steven McPhee’s excellent, well-judged food a joy
> Owner Scott Edwards is into wine and the seasonally-changing list is full of his inspired suggestions
> Breakfast offers a buffet with plenty fruit on offer; good hot dishes include fish, or full grill with haggis

R A T I N G
Highly Recommended

L O C A T I O N   Map
If you’re arriving by train then the hotel could hardly be easier – 2 minutes’ walk. It’s on the Inverness / Stirling / Edinburgh routes. Edinburgh is about 1hr by train or car. By car, Parklands is found on the edge of South Inch Park, past the lovely and prominent St Leonards-in-the-Field church, close to the station, well signposted with easy parking to the front of the hotel.

T I P S   &   H I N T S
Do eat here. This is not a hotel in which to only sleep! Bistro offers freshly-made, handcrafted, locally-sourced quality food with a grill menu if you just fancy a prime steak. Acanthus offers superb cuisine at much less than you’d pay in grander places. Hotel and bistro are in current Michelin guide. Hotel team owns acclaimed restaurant 63 Tay Street. Front-facing bedrooms are best. Pleasant 5 minute walk into town centre.

Newsletter Sign up for Parkland's newsletter with offers.