Doors open at new £7.5million hotel in St Andrews where rooms cost £415 per night

It transformed the former Ardgowan Hotel, and officially welcomed its first guests on Tuesday (June 16).

The Kithmore occupies three elegant Georgian townhouses dating back to 1847 - originally designed by renowned St Andrews architect George Rae. Reimagined as a design-led boutique hotel, the landmark property combines carefully restored heritage features with contemporary luxury and modern comforts. The project has also created 36 new hospitality jobs.

The opening also marked the launch of Bennie's, The Kithmore's new all-day Scottish bar and restaurant. Named after the Bennie family, who played an important role in the property's hospitality history, Bennie's has been designed as a welcoming social destination for guests and locals alike.

The restaurant accommodates 57 covers and 30 seated on the terrace.

Kathryn McNairn, general manager, said: "Opening day is a hugely proud moment for everyone involved in bringing The Kithmore to life. Over the past two years we have watched this remarkable transformation take shape, breathing new life into a much-loved St Andrews property while carefully preserving its heritage and character.

"We have assembled an exceptional team and created a hotel that feels warm, personal and deeply connected to its surroundings. From the bedrooms and public spaces to Bennie's restaurant, every detail has been designed with the guest experience in mind.”

Malcolm Allan, hospitality director for The Marram Collection, added: "The opening of The Kithmore is a significant milestone for The Marram Collection and a project we are immensely proud to bring to fruition. From the outset, our vision was to create a hotel that celebrated the unique character of St Andrews while delivering the highest standards of contemporary hospitality.

"The transformation of these historic townhouses has been an extraordinary journey involving talented designers, craftspeople and hospitality professionals, all united by a shared ambition to create something special. The Kithmore embodies everything we believe great hotels should be – distinctive, welcoming, design-led and deeply connected to their surroundings.

"Alongside Bennie's, we hope The Kithmore becomes not only a place for visitors to stay, but a destination embraced by the local community for years to come."