The Anteroom Experience x Gordon & MacPhail

An Intimate Highland Escape

Dornoch Whisky Festival Weekend | 24–26 October 2025

Step into a world where whisky heritage, Highland craftsmanship, and fine dining converge. For one exclusive weekend during the Dornoch Whisky Festival, Links House presents a special edition of The Anteroom Experience, hosted in partnership with Stephen Rankin, Director of Prestige at Gordon & MacPhail.

A fourth-generation custodian of one of Scotland’s most iconic independent bottlers and distillers, Stephen brings extraordinary knowledge, warmth, and storytelling to every dram. Across two days, guests will be immersed in a journey of whisky, artistry, and Highland hospitality, culminating in an unforgettable Supper Club in The Anteroom.

Your Experience

Friday 24 October – Arrival & Welcome

  • Arrive at Links House and settle into the comfort of your Glenshiel Suite.

  • Join fellow guests for a convivial Table d’Hôte group dinner in MARA, setting the tone for the weekend ahead.

Saturday 25 October – A Day of Whisky & Craftsmanship

  • Breakfast at leisure in the comfort of the House.

  • Morning visit to Glasstorm in Tain for a private glassblowing masterclass — artistry and fire at its most captivating.

  • Dornoch Whisky Festival Grand Tasting – enjoy a short visit to the heart of the festival.

  • Return to Links House for a relaxed Highland lunch of soup & sandwiches.

  • Afternoon candle-making workshop with Alasdair Dickson at Carnegie Whisky Cellars, exploring scent, craft, and creativity.

  • Evening begins with a hosted Tasting Menu in The Anteroom with paired wines and whiskies, where Stephen Rankin shares stories, heritage, and insights from Gordon & MacPhail’s unrivalled archives.

  • Round off the night with a late-night whisky tasting experience – rare drams, fireside conversation, and festival spirit.

Sunday 26 October – Farewell & Festival Highlights

  • Breakfast at leisure.

  • Guests are invited to take part in the David Urquhart Memorial Trophy Golf Day.

  • For non-golfers, a private visit to the Kilncroft Gallery with Andrew Burns offers an alternative cultural experience.

  • Lunch at Royal Dornoch Golf Club to close the weekend.

Package Inclusions

  • 2 nights in a Glenshiel Suite (Mallart Penthouse subject to availability)

  • Daily Highland breakfast

  • Friday MARA group dinner

  • Saturday Glasstorm masterclass in Tain

  • Entry to the Dornoch Whisky Festival Grand Tasting

  • Lunch at Links House (soup & sandwiches)

  • Alasdair Dickson candle workshop at Carnegie Whisky Cellars

  • Hosted Anteroom Tasting Menu with Stephen Rankin & Gordon & MacPhail

  • Late-night whisky tasting experience

  • Sunday golf day invitation or gallery visit

  • Lunch at Royal Dornoch Golf Club on Sunday

  • All-inclusive beverage package throughout your stay - with house wines & spirits

Package Details

  • Dates: Friday 24 – Sunday 26 October 2025

  • Price: £2,000 per room, based on double occupancy

  • Suites: Glenshiel Suites

  • Availability: 3 Rooms available

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Terms & conditions

  • Minimum 2-night stay required

  • 25% deposit at the time of booking (non-refundable)

  • Balance payable on departure

  • Cancellation within 21 days of arrival is fully non-refundable

  • Dietary requirements must be communicated at the time of booking

  • Experience available for parties of 6–12 guests

HIGHLAND ADVENTUREs
SURF & TURF

HIGHLAND ADVENTUREs
Sky to shore

HIGHLAND ADVENTUREs
TEE & TOAST

HIGHLAND ADVENTUREs
Retail To relaxation