December at Knockinaam
As December descends upon Knockinaam, the frosted landscape sets a calm and peaceful scene around the hotel – perfect for the festive season. Our hotel becomes a cosy haven, where the twinkling lights and festive touches add to the magical atmosphere.
This month, our kitchen garden is a source of inspiration for our December menu, featuring home-grown and locally sourced seasonal winter produce. From hearty root vegetables to the delicate spices that define winter cuisine, our menu is a homage to the season’s best.
This time of year is perfect for brisk walks along our private cove, where the serene surroundings offer a moment of reflection away from the festive hustle and bustle. As the evenings draw in, Knockinaam Lodge offers a warm retreat. Our guests can enjoy the comfort of cosy fires, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring or simply unwinding with good food and drink after a busy day.
What’s growing?
Our daily changing menu reflects our commitment to using the best of what the season has to offer. This month it is a showcase of December’s harvest, ensuring each dish is both fresh and of the highest quality.
Guests can expect tenderstem and romanesco broccoli, and red cabbage, offering a mix of colours and flavours throughout our menu. Jerusalem artichokes, sprouts, cavolo nero and beetroot add earthy notes, while fresh herbs, chillies, and the unique cucamelons contribute their distinct flavours. Rounding out our kitchen garden’s offerings are sweet parsnips and salad burnet, ensuring a diverse and seasonal touch to our dishes.
Flavours of the month
Knockinaam Seasonal Menu
Roast Loin of Carsluith Red Deer with Salt Baked Celeriac, Caramalised Garden Sprouts, Raspberry Vinger and Bitter Chocolate Reduction
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Honey Roast Breast of Gressingham Duck with Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage, Parsnip Puree, Dubonnet & Thyme Reduction
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William Pear & Apple Soufflé with a Warm Spiced Crème Anglaise
Knockinaam Festive Cocktails
Candy Cane Champagne: Eden Mill Christmas Gin, Guy de Chassey Brut Champagne, Candy Cane Garnish
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Dark & Stormy: OVD Demerara Rum, Ginger Beer, Fresh Lime Juice, Homemade Sugar Syrup
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Winter Fruit Fizz: Irish Mist, Angostura Bitters, Pumpkin Syrup, Appletiser
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Cherry Christmas Cracker: Kirsch, Monin Cherry Syrup, Lemonade, Fresh Lime Juice
Things to do
Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply in search of a peaceful retreat, our selection of activities caters to all. From serene garden strolls and walks by our private cove, to engaging tours and local shopping, there’s something special for every guest. Here’s some of the activities and attractions you can look forward to during your stay:
Embrace Nature and Walks
With the area primarily focused on walking and nature during the winter, guests can immerse themselves in serene landscapes. While many attractions close in winter, efforts are underway to extend the season’s offerings.
Visit Glenwhan Gardens
Open locally, these gardens offer a peaceful retreat, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Explore Culzean Castle
The castle’s Country Park and Walled Gardens remain open, providing an idyllic setting for exploration.
Dumfries House Tours
The estate & gardens of Dumfries House are open 365, dawn to dusk for walkers and at the weekends, Dumfries House offers a variety of tours including the House, Grand, Art, Chippendale, and Clock Tours. The Queen Elizabeth Walled Garden and the Maguire Arboretum are open for visitors.
Bird Watching Hotspots
For bird enthusiasts, Wigtown Bay, Crook o Baldoon RSPB Corsewall Point, Inner Solway Firth, Mull of Galloway, Loch Ryan, and Luce Bay offer spectacular views of seabird colonies and overwintering wildfowl.
Christmas Shopping
For unique gifts, visit the independent shops in Castle Douglas, Kircudbright, and the growing retail scene in Gatehouse of Fleet.
Distillery Tours
Gin and whiskey aficionados can enjoy tours at Crafty Distillery (Tuesday-Saturday) and Bladnoch Distillery (until December 19th).
Guided Walks and Maps
Take advantage of the lodge’s maps and guides for scenic walks in the area, especially rewarding with the beautiful beaches nearby.
Finish your day with a return to the lodge, warming up by our cosy open fires with a whiskey or your preferred drink in hand!
Booking & Availability
While we are fully booked for the Christmas and Hogmanay festivities, we encourage interested guests to join our waiting list by calling us directly at 01776 810471.
However, there’s still ample opportunity to experience the charm of Knockinaam Lodge in December. We are pleased to offer bookings for lunches and dinners for small groups, including private dining options. Additionally, a select number of rooms remain available for those wishing to stay with us during December.
There is also still availability for our Murder Mystery Special Break on the 8th & 9th December.
Guests are welcome to get in touch directly or check our availability online to make a booking or reservation.
