Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of each dining room seated?
Our main restaurant can seat up to 100 people and our wood panelled private dining room up to 18 people. For larger parties we recommend a marquee outside for up to 150 people.
What is the dress code?
The dress code for our private dining room is respectably smart/casual. However, should you decide to set a more specific dress code for your special event, you are welcome to do so, ie suits/dinner jacket and evening attire.
Is smoking allowed in the dining rooms?
We comply with non-smoking legislation throughout the hotel and do not permit smoking in any of the bedrooms. However, guests are welcome to step outside the Front Door and Dining Door into the gardens or smoke on our ‘Crows Nest’ raised deck seating area.
Is there an open bar in each dining room?
No. However a wide selection of bar drinks are available by waiter service from the House bar.
Is it possible to have music entertainment?
There are several options concerning music for the Ceremony and Reception from a light Scottish country music to a ceilidh or simply your own selection of music. A fabulous Bang and Olufsen Stereo system is available and can be used for background music or for dancing. You are most welcome to bring along your own selection of music or we have some on hand. The House offers a variety of contemporary and traditional Scottish music, as well as classical music CDs and more recent chart music.
Is dancing allowed?
The Dining Room is ideal for dancing and we have our own dance floor which can be set up on request.
What time can I access a private room from?
When you book for lunch, you can access the room from 11:30am
When you book for dinner, you can access the room from 4:30pm
What time do my guests and I need to vacate a private room?
When you book for lunch, we kindly request your guests to vacate the room by 4:30pm
When you book for dinner, we kindly request your guests to vacate the room by 01:00am or later by arrangement
Is the house accessible for disabled people?
Yes, but on the ground floor only. All our public areas are accessible by wheelchair. 10 of our Cedar Wing Standard Rooms are on the ground floor and we are converting one of these bedrooms into an Accessible Bedroom for Disabled visitors in Spring 2010.
What is the deposit required to secure my booking?
When you decide to confirm your reservation for a private dining room, we do require a deposit of the private room hire charge as quoted when making the booking.
A Master of Ceremonies?
Our Manager will be on hand to act as a Master of Ceremonies if you wish, although many people prefer to ask a member of their family to fill this important role. We will work with you, guiding you through the day and the formalities in which every format you prefer.
Can a meal be served in the gardens?
We can serve a meal outside, however as the Scottish weather can be tempremental at best we would always need a wet weather alternative. It is usually better just to serve your drinks and canapés in the garden if you wish.
A BBQ is a fantastic way to welcome your guests on the first day of a two day exclusive use.
A dinner or buffet in our private dining room is a perfect alternative for a smaller party.
Can we have a choice of menu on the day for our guests?
For numbers over 10 guests, we kindly request you to select a set menu for everyone. Guests with any dietary requirements or allergies can be taken care of. There is also a vegetarian menu available.
What flowers are included in the hire of the room and where are they located?
There are floral displays in the Lounges, reception and the cocktail bar. We can offer simple cut flowers from the garden in single vases for your table in season or you may wish to discuss more personal arrangements with our house florist Rachel Ross who will be happy to help you with ideas and prices.
Where are the fire places and when are they lit?
There is a fireplace in the Cocktail lounge, which is lit for the majority of the year, except in very warm weather.
What is the hotel's policy on corkage?
Unfortunately, we do not allow guests to provide their own wines. We are proud to offer our guests a very interesting wine list - please consult with Calum for special requirements.
Are there any baby changing facilities?
These can easily be arranged.
Is confetti allowed?
No confetti, but rose petals are perfect.
Is there room for guests to change prior to a private event?
If you are not staying with us, we will do our best to provide a bedroom, if available. However, you are more than welcome to use the spacious rest rooms.
What parking facilities are available?
The hotel offers 35 parking spaces for residential guests and day visitors. For a large wedding we can arrange to park cars in the National Trust gardens car park directly behind the hotel.
What are the nearest towns to Loch Melfort Hotel?
Loch Melfort Hotel is almost equidistant between Lochgilphead and Oban, both being approximately 25 minutes drive away.
Is there a helipad?
Yes indeed - the croquet lawn, just above the hotel. But please contact us before hand so we can inform our neighbours at the National Trust Gardens to close the footpath.
