Discover 1635: Scotland’s Newest Fine Dining Experience at Knipoch House Hotel
Here’s a wee gem for you: a delicious dining experience combining creative cheffing, carefully selected local produce, and superior sommeliering, all within a beautiful restaurant whose walls hold some of Scotland’s most murderous history. Add in views of Scotland’s awe-inspiring landscapes, and you’ve got a destination dinner that must be experienced.
The Sonas Collection, a collection of luxurious boutique hotels in Scotland’s north west, is excited to unveil 1635, a fine dining gem nestled in the recently renovated Knipoch House Hotel, just outside Oban, Scotland. Under the expert leadership of Chef Andrew Engledow, 1635 offers an unforgettable seven-course tasting journey through Scotland’s finest seasonal ingredients.
Under the expert leadership of Chef Andrew Engledow, 1635 offers an unforgettable seven-course tasting journey through Scotland’s finest seasonal ingredients.
A Taste of History and Highland Flavours
The name ‘1635’ pays tribute to the rich heritage of Knipoch House, a historic property dating back to the 16th century. With its name derived from the Norse word for 'hilly place' and connections to Scotland’s Viking past, Knipoch is steeped in stories of ancient royalty, Robert the Bruce, and Shakespearean drama. Yes, Shakespeare’s Macbeth was inspired by the murder of Clan Campbell’s Thane of Cawdor, which took place at Knipoch and one of the bullet holes from the bloody event is still there, in the restaurant’s stone walls, for all to see. A plaque bearing the year 1635 remains, once used for tax collection, tying the hotel’s legacy to this new culinary chapter.
Chef Engledow’s ‘Taste of Scotland’ menu is a celebration of the country's natural larder. Dishes include Shetland scallops, Orkney halibut, Argyll venison, and Tain cheddar, blending local produce with contemporary flair. The result is a dining experience that captures the essence of Scotland’s land and sea.
A £1million renovation has given new a new lease of life to Knipoch House
A New Era for Knipoch House
Following a £1 million renovation in early 2024, Knipoch House Hotel has been carefully restored by the Sonas Collection to preserve its historic charm while adding luxurious modern touches, from super king-sized beds to a hot tub with views over Loch Feochan.
Chef Andrew Engledow says: “1635 reflects my vision of Scottish cuisine—rooted in tradition, but always evolving. Each dish tells a story of Scotland’s natural beauty and culinary heritage, using only the best local ingredients.”
With panoramic views from the Loch View Terrace and a menu that draws on the best of Argyll and beyond, 1635 is set to become a must-visit destination for those seeking an elevated taste of Scotland.
Discover the 1635 Tasting Menu
Amuse Bouche
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Pre-starter
Shetland Scallop, Artichoke, Black Olive, Lemon, Celery
Accompanied with Tissot-maire Blanc de Noirs Cremant du JUra Brut NV, Jura France 125ml
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Starter
Fife Roast Partridge, Bitterfallen, Corn and Granola
Accompanied with Pinot Noir, Elephant Hill 2020, Central Otago, New Zealand 100ml
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Pre-main
Orkney Halibut, Ginger Velouté, Seaweed Leek, Mushroom
Accompanied with Semillon Constantia Uisig 2021, South Africa 100ml
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Main
Wild Argyll Venison Loin, Truffle Salsify, Red Cabbage, Ragu
Accompanied with Parterre Cabernet Sauvignon Fraser Gallop Estate 2019, Western Australia 125ml
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Pre-Dessert
Tain Blue Murder, Pear, Smoked Almond, Crisps
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Dessert
Cranachan Soufflé, Raspberry Sorbet, Whisky
Accompanied with Saint Alberts Producteurs Plaimont Pacherenc du Vil Bilh, Gascony, France 70ml
7-course tasting Dinner £89 per person
Paired Wines £49 Per Person
Served Wednesday to Saturday
Book your table now and indulge in a dining experience that blends Scotland’s deep-rooted history with modern culinary craftsmanship.