Nick Nairn to part ways with Dunblane Hydro restaurant after 16 years

Chef Nick Nairn’s Kailyard restaurant at Dunblane Hydro hotel is set to close after 16 years.

An announcement from Apex Hotels said the partnership between Nairn and the hotel was coming to an end in March 2026 by mutual agreement.

Nairn, who has consulted on the restaurant since its launch in 2009, will instead focus on his Nick’s restaurant and cookery school in Port of Menteith.

The change comes amid a wider multimillion-pound revamp of the hotel by Apex Hotels, which acquired the 200-room former DoubleTree by Hilton property from Ability Hotels in 2024.

It will see the restaurant relaunched with a new concept, name and design. Apex Hotels said further details of the overhaul would be announced in early 2026.

Brian Scanlin, who has worked with Nairn at the Kailyard for many years, will remain as executive chef.

Paul Mooney, area general manager for Apex Dunblane Hydro, said: “Nick’s influence on the Kailyard and on the wider food scene in central Scotland has been remarkable. Over the last 16 years, he has helped build a restaurant that is respected and known for its commitment to quality and Scottish produce. I would like to thank Nick sincerely for everything he has contributed to Dunblane Hydro and wish him every success in the next chapter on behalf of Apex Hotels.

“As we embark on an exciting new era for the hotel, the evolution of our restaurant is a key part of our wider vision. With Brian remaining as executive head chef and a new concept in development, there is a great deal to look forward to.”

Nairn said: “I’m very proud of all the Kailyard has achieved. However, it’s time for me to focus exclusively on the restaurant and cook school in Port of Menteith. I wish only the best for the Dunblane Hydro and the team. I’ll be a very interested onlooker as Apex invests in and improves the hotel, I believe it’s in good hands and I look forward to visiting as a guest.”

Nairn became the youngest chef in Scotland to win a Michelin star for his restaurant Braeval near Aberfoyle in 1991 and was a regular on the BBC’s Ready Steady Cook in the 1990s.

Apex Hotels was founded in 1996 and owns 12 hotels across the UK.

A farewell event celebrating Nairn’s 16 years at the hotel will be held on 26 March.