Community-owned gastro pub The Kenmuir Arms opens in Dumfries

Published 14th Jun 2023
Updated 8 th Aug 2023

The picturesque hotel and gastropub, The Kenmuir Arms, has opened its doors in the small riverside village of New Luce in Dumfries and Galloway, following a community buyout that funded its complete refurbishment.

The Kenmuir Arms, run by chef patron Christopher Dougan, aims to create a stand-out culinary experience which showcases the very best Scottish fayre while exploring flavours inspired by Christopher’s global travels.

Having worked in Michelin Star restaurants such as Petrus London, Christopher Dougan brings over 20 years of experience to The Kenmuir Arms and looks to focus on organic, and under-utilised produce from local suppliers.

Christopher Dougan said: “I’ve been fortunate enough to work in some outstanding kitchens around the world but launching The Kenmuir Arms is my most exciting challenge yet.

"Our aim was to create a beautiful space which offered exquisite fresh and local food with warm and homely rooms.

“We’ve worked closely with New Luce Community Trust and could not be more grateful for their continued support - The Kenmuir Arms is the culmination of a lot of hard work and we’re looking forward to welcoming in locals and guests from further afield.

“Nestled just nine miles away from Stranraer, The Kenmuir Arms is the perfect base for golfing, fishing, walking and cycling. We are lucky to be located near to the Galloway Forest Park, the UK's first Dark Skies location too for any keen stargazers.”

What's on the menu at The Kenmuir Arms

Kenmuir Arms

The venue will serve an eight-course tasting menu, which showcases some of the best local produce from Dumfries and Galloway.

It'll be available from Wednesday to Saturday and is priced at £75 per person with matching wine flight £50 per person.

As well as this there will be an la carte menu where chef Christopher Dougan puts his own spin on some family favourites.

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The menu contains small and large plates perfect for sharing with dishes including the likes of BBQ pork, jerk spiced chicken wings and homemade pies.

Finally the pub will also serve a Sunday lunch menu, with dishes such as rabbit terrine with white bean casserole; roast sirloin or a guest roast of the week; dripping roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables grown in the onsite allotment and freshly baked bread and house butter.

The Kenmuir Arms has three furnished ensuite bedrooms for those looking to make a night or weekend of it. A full Scottish farmhouse breakfast is included in the stay.

The opening of The Kenmuir Arms marks an exciting chapter for the New Luce Community Trust, which is spearheading the renovation of the historic building.

Through community projects like this, the trust aims to enhance the lives of local residents and preserve the natural beauty and heritage of the area.

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When does The Kenmuir Arms open?

Kenmuir Arms

The Kenmuir Arms will serve dinner Wednesday – Saturday, lunch Thursday – Saturday, as well as a traditional Sunday lunch.

For further information or to book a table/room visit their website.

Known for cake making, experimental jam recipes, Champagne, whisky and gin drinking (and the inability to cook Gnocchi), Rosalind is the Food and Drink Editor and whisky writer for The Scotsman, as well as hosting Scran, The Scotsman's food and drink podcast.
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