Wildings Hotel & Restaurant

Fairly unassuming hotel and restaurant in the village of Maidens with a traditional but smart approach, set-price menus and a focus on seafood.

The 2019 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

Just a mile from the Turnberry golf course and resort, and overlooking the quaint harbour, Wildings consistently delivers on quality Scottish food and service. Its two restaurants have ample space for larger groups and families to dine comfortably in modern, relaxed surroundings. Popular with visiting golfers it attracts diners from across Ayrshire to sample fresh fish, locally caught seafood and skilfully prepared meat dishes. Menus change often, offering a modern twist on traditional Scottish and countryside recipes. These are accompanied by an excellent wine cellar and malt whiskies. A great range of specials is always available, as too are great value set meals.

Listed in the Ayrshire Larder – order a print copy (free + p&p).

As one might expect from a seaside restaurant, shellfish and seafood feature significantly on both the lunch and dinner set menus – in fact diners can sample five oceanic treats on one plate – halibut, salmon, monkfish, cod and silver bream – artfully presented with a vibrant tomato and basil vinaigrette. Hake with lobster and brandy cream sauce is luxuriously creamy while the wide range of meat dishes, including an impressive rack of lamb served with a refreshing compote of minty peas and the famous Wilding’s chicken with Swiss cheese, mean there is an ample choice of expertly prepared food to sample. An impressive wine list and pleasant staff complement the menu well and with vistas across Arran and Holy Isle to enjoy while you eat, Wilding’s restaurant is a seaside treasure.