The Kithmore: Luxury St Andrews hotel opens bookings after £7.5m transformation

Bookings are now open for The Kithmore following a £7.5 million transformation of the former Ardgowan Hotel on Playfair Terrace.

Set across three elegant Georgian townhouses, the buildings date back to 1847 and were originally designed by renowned St Andrews architect George Rae.

Rooms at The Kithmore are priced from £415 per night, and the hotel is just moments from The Royal and Ancient Golf Club and the iconic Old Course.

The renovated 44-bed boutique hotel now includes a new extension that further enhances the guest experience, increasing capacity with four additional bedrooms, while two more have been created on the ground floor within the former Pilmour Bar. 

The owners have said The Kithmore name has been inspired by the Scots word kith, which means friendship, familiarity and a sense of home, this reflects the hotel’s warmth, welcome and genuine hospitality.

Kathryn McNairn, general manager of The Kithmore, said: “From the very beginning, The Kithmore has been about creating a refined yet welcoming retreat, rooted in the character of St Andrews and delivered to the highest design specification throughout. 

“Inspired by the Scots word ‘kith’, meaning friendship and familiarity, we have designed a luxurious boutique hotel that feels elegant but never formal - a true home from home.

“Whether guests are here to play world-class golf, explore the town, enjoy exceptional food or simply slow down and relax, our hotel offers a thoughtful alternative to larger resorts, with quality, comfort and attention to detail at its heart. 

“As we head towards our opening in June, we’re now open for bookings and recruiting the team who will bring this vision to life.”

Each room is unique and has been designed to maximise its features whether it’s a free-standing bath in a bay window with views to the sea and the Old Course, or an original cornice restored to its former glory.

Bespoke furniture and furnishings range from dressing tables, feature wardrobes and hospitality units; customised joinery, oak timber flooring, plush rugs and an original frieze design features in selected room.

The artwork throughout has been curated to add character to each individual space with local artists showcased.

All ensuite bathrooms feature Italian stone porcelain tiles inspired by Italian terrazzo.

The reinstatement of historic planters will enhance both privacy and the streetscape with a subtle illuminated central entrance staircase set back from the street.

Guests arrive at a stylish reception area featuring herringbone timber flooring layered with plush rugs, lounge seating, original art and a bespoke red marble reception desk that anchors the lobby.

Hand-painted signage by a local signwriter Thomas Payne of Thomas Paints guides guests through the property.

A key aspect of The Kithmore’s appeal will be its new standalone bar and restaurant, which is accessed by its own street-level entrance and extended landscaped terrace. 

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Climbing honeysuckle, planters with native flowers and grasses, yew trees, wall lighting and uplighters have created an inviting social terrace setting to the hotel.

Recruitment for key management positions is now under way, with further recruitment for front line roles closer to the opening in June.

Bookings are now open at www.thekithmore.com. For reservations, recruitment enquiries or further information, contact [email protected] or call 01334 472970.