Marine Dream

In celebration of summer, the lawn becomes a convivial alfresco extension of our living space, bringing guests together over a broad range of entertaining pursuits including croquet, quoits, connect four, boules and giant Jenga – as well as the opportunity to challenge loved ones to nine holes of pitch and putt – all just a stone’s throw from the hotel’s reception. Drop in between other activities or make an afternoon of it, accompanied by food and drink from this year’s seasonal Seafood Bar & Grill.

“This year we’re putting the focus on Scottish seafood, served
in a modern manner,” says Gleneagles’ executive chef Simon
Attridge of the latest pop-up on the lawn, which – open from
midday until 6pm each day – follows up on last summer’s
successful Italian Riviera-themed residency. “Scottish seafood
is arguably the best in the world and we’re lucky enough to
work alongside a number of great partners, including George
Campbell & Sons, just down the road from us, as well as a
roster of small suppliers from across Scotland who bring us
the best produce from around the coast.”

“The idea is that it’s all for sharing,” continues Attridge on the concept for this year’s menu. “You can spend time on the lawn and order a selection of dishes, enjoy the Scottish sunshine and share thoughtfully sourced Scottish produce married with some interesting flavours.” Therefore guests can expect to find a contemporary take on the traditional seafood cocktail, freshly landed lobster from the east coast, spiced hake from Peterhead fish market in the far north of Scotland, served in a wrap, west coast scallops with seaweed butter or crab sandwich bites with an Asian-inspired dressing. “The famous Arbroath smokies will also be on the menu this year,” adds Attridge, referencing the popular hot-smoked haddock produced using time-honoured techniques. “And we’ve taken our own Gleneagles & Co hot smoked salmon and paired it with another Scottish favourite mac and cheese.”

All of which is complemented by a lawn bar serving refreshments in the form of premium spirits and spritzes from Hendrick’s gin, Menabrea beer as well as Champagne by Moët & Chandon. To accompany some of the seafood dishes on offer at this year’s pop-up, Attridge also recommends exploring the chilled white or rose options from the Gleneagles wine list. And for those with a sweet tooth, the tuck shop returns this year, which promises a choice of pick and mix confectionery and two flavours of soft serve ice cream. “The atmosphere on the lawn is always laidback and relaxed,” says Attridge. “As well as tables and chairs, there are blankets and deck chairs for guests to enjoy – it’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon.”