Notting Hill is a cultural melting pot.
So it’s no surprise that a little Scotch is getting thrown in for good measure. Literally.
In collaboration with The Craigellachie Hotel up in the Highlands, The Walmer Castle on Ledbury Road is a Scottish restaurant and whisky bar that promises to bring the spirit of Speyside to West London. Both hotel and castle are spearheaded by Piers Adams, the man behind old Mayfair club Mahiki, so don’t be surprised if you see a few famous faces knocking back some of the water of life.
Now, if you’re a whisky lover you probably know that Speyside, despite its small size, is responsible for two thirds of all Scottish malt whisky. And when you visit the whisky bar at The Walmer Tavern, you’ll see they might just be responsible for two thirds of London’s offering. It’s not just these 400+ drams on the menu here — the cocktails and aperitifs are very good, particularly their killer martini — but if you’re visiting be sure to at least take a look at the upstairs bar. When in Scotland…
On the food front, there’s responsibly sourced meat and seafood along with traditional Scottish fare with a bit of a twist like Haggis Bon Bons with a Copper Dog whisky glaze (made at, and named after the pub at the Craigellachie). The Venison Carpaccio melts in the mouth, and the Monkfish Tacos are, albeit not particularly Scottish, extremely tasty.
On the menu you can see exactly where some of the key produce was sourced, which is a nice touch. For example the delicious grilled lobster with garlic butter and seashore vegetables comes from right near the Craigellachie in Speyside, as does the beef and smoked salmon.
The interior of The Walmer Castle feels like a huntsman’s lodge, so much so you might be surprised when you step – or stagger if you’ve really got into the liquor – onto the street at end of the night, instead of out into a glen. If taxidermy is likely to put you off your dinner, this may not be the place for you. But there are also frou-frou lampshades, gold-painted ceilings and lots of Speyside wood – all working together to give this place a fun Scottish vibe. Does it work?
Och aye.
NOTE: The Walmer Castle is open daily. You can find out more, and book a table, HERE.
The Walmer Castle | 58 Ledbury Road, Notting Hill, W11 2AJ
Looking for more inspiration? Check out these Notting Hill date ideas
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Carpe Diem!