January at Knockinaam
The new year brings a fresh and quiet beauty to our surroundings at Knockinaam Lodge. After the rush and excitement of the festivities, our hotel is a peaceful place to relax and unwind.
This month, our kitchen is all about cooking up delicious dishes with our home grown winter veggies and other local ingredients that are sure to warm you up. Think of rich, tasty food that’s perfect for those chilly days.
Outdoors, the crisp air and gentle rustle of frost-coated leaves provide the perfect setting for rejuvenating walks along our private cove and grounds. When the evenings get cold, Knockinaam Lodge is here to welcome you back with a cosy fire and a warm atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to chill out after a day of exploring or just to relax and enjoy some good food and company.
What’s growing?
As the new year unfolds, the kitchen garden at Knockinaam Lodge brims with seasonal produce, even in the heart of winter. The soil, rich and well-tended, homes a variety of winter vegetables: kale, broccoli, cabbage, and sprouts, each adding a fresh zest to our winter menu. The leeks, with their subtle onion-like flavour, are thriving alongside the unique, earthy tones of artichokes and the spicy kick of horse radish, ready to be harvested and transformed into tasty dishes by our skilled team of chefs.
But it’s not just about the vegetables; the first signs of spring are gently nudging through the cold soil. Hyacinths, Snowdrops and Alliums are just beginning to surface, bringing the promise of vibrant colours and fragrances. Indoors, our attention turns to the future as our seed catalogues arrive, stirring excitement. Diana, our dedicated gardener, is meticulously planning this year’s vegetable array with a focus on greenhouse favourites like tomatoes, chillies, and peppers.
Meanwhile, within the hotel, Paper whites and Hyacinths are paired with dried Hydrangeas and Honesty, creating rustic yet elegant table decorations. Pine cones and dried grasses, foraged from around the estate, add a touch of the wild to our interiors, blending seamlessly with the warmth and charm of the lodge.
Flavours of the month
Knockinaam Seasonal Menu
Knockinaam White Onion and Cider Velouté with Isle of Mull Cheese
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Slow Roast fillet of Galloway Beef , Potato & Truffle Terrine, Garden
Tender stem , Fresh Horseradish with a Port & Tarragon reduction.
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Double vanilla bean Panna cotta with Poached Rhubarb, honeycomb crumb & candied clementine zest.
Knockinaam Festive Cocktails
Galloway Fizz: ( Hills & Harbour Gin, Frozen Mango,
Fiol Extra Dry Prosecco
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Dark & Stormy & Winter Fruit Fizz
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Malibu Sunset: (Malibu, Passoa, Pineapple Juice &
Fresh Lime)
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.
Distillery Tours
Gin and whiskey aficionados can enjoy tours at Crafty Distillery (after the 17th Jan) and Bladnoch Distillery.
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.
Booking & Availability
January at Knockinaam Hotel brings the best of our winter offerings. With competitive winter rates, it’s the perfect time for a relaxing recovery break! Our dining options promise a variety of seasonal flavours, while our rooms offer a comfortable and peaceful stay.
Indulge in our delightful afternoon tea, a perfect blend of tradition and taste, complemented by the option of a glass of bubbly for an extra special touch. It’s an ideal way to spend a leisurely afternoon, whether you’re staying with us or just passing through.
For our latest availability, please get in touch on 01776 810471 or check online on the links below.
