Historic Trossachs hotel that hosted The Beatles reopens after stunning £3 million makeover

Set on the banks of the River Teith, Thackray House at Callander dates back to 1625, when it opened as a hunting lodge for the dukes of Perth. It has undergone an extensive restoration, restoring centuries-old features while creating local jobs and new opportunities for the community.

The hotel, formerly known as Roman Camp, is widely remembered for hosting The Beatles during their early tours, but its story stretches back more than 400 years.

It has reopened under the stewardship of Scottish hotel management firm ICMI, employing a team of 25 people from the surrounding area, some of whom reside on site.

Today, Thackray House offers 17 bedrooms, a private chapel, riverside gardens and the Drummond Suite, which can host up to 150 guests for weddings and events.

A key part of the reopening is the launch of the appropriately-named Strawberry Fields Bistro, a 32-seat restaurant designed around sharing dishes and seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Led by head chef Martyn Shearer, the bistro will be welcoming hotel guests and local diners alike, promising an “informal approach aimed at creating a sociable dining experience”.

Set within 20 acres of grounds, including a walled garden and private fishing rights, the hotel has retained many original features such as its wood-panelled library, carved ceilings, oval reception room and art deco details. Original French panelling and furnishing in the hotel’s library was carefully restored over weeks by local French polishers Mariano and Joseph Ottolini.

Norbert Lieder, managing director of ICMI, said: “Thackray House is a beautiful and completely unique building. It is an honour to become part of its rich history.

“Our focus has been on investing in the hotel to preserve its character while enhancing comfort for today’s guests and ensuring it plays a meaningful role in the local community and economy.”

The property has played a notable role in Scottish history, from its ownership by the 4th Earl of Perth, advisor to King James II, to its Victorian-era use by Lord Esher for royal entertaining. In the 20th century, it became a retreat for Hollywood figures after being acquired by silent film star Lili Damita.

During the restoration the team uncovered a London Times newspaper from 1855. It is now hanging in the bar lounge.

Looking ahead, further investment is planned to redevelop two cottages within the grounds, which will be transformed into additional guest accommodation, expanding the hotel’s offering and supporting future tourism growth in the area.

ICMI has appointed Joanna Nelson as general manager. Based in Stirling, she joined ICMI in 2017 and has worked in world-renowned hotels.

ICMI manages a number of Scotland’s luxury hotels, lodges and inns including Rocpool Reserve in Inverness, Inverlochy Castle, Glenfinnan House Hotel and Isle of Eriska Hotel & Spa.

17th-century Trossachs country house hotel steeped in history to reopen with Beatles theme