Customer Spotlight: Stravithie Castle, Scotland

20 October 2026 - Author: Jane Hill, freeonlinbooking UK team

Yet another satisfied customer...

Every so often, a customer shares something that reminds us why we do what we do. Hearing how freeonlinebooking makes a difference to the people running accommodation businesses is always rewarding, especially when they take the time to tell us what that difference means to them.

David Chalmers runs the family-run bed and breakfast at Stravithie Castle, just a few minutes from St Andrews. He has been using freeonlinebooking since 2024 and recently shared how his bookings have changed during that time.

We wanted to share David's experience and introduce you to the peaceful setting his guests come to enjoy.

A peaceful stay near St Andrews

Stravithie Castle, St Andrews

David welcomes guests to an informal, family-run bed and breakfast within Stravithie Castle. Surrounded by parkland, gardens and lawns, it offers a peaceful place to stay just a few minutes from St Andrews.

The three guest rooms look out over the lawn, gardens and stream. Each has an en-suite bathroom, a king-size or Scottish double bed, and the comforts guests need to settle in, including tea and coffee facilities and free Wi-Fi. In the morning, guests can enjoy a continental breakfast served in their room, with a choice of cold meats, cheese, eggs, cereals, yoghurt, toast and fruit.

With just three rooms and walks through the grounds to enjoy, Stravithie offers a relaxed stay in a setting that feels far removed from the bustle of town.

Golf, coast and history nearby

St Andrews is known around the world as the Home of Golf, and Stravithie Castle is well placed for guests who have come to play. The famous Old Course is part of St Andrews Links, with many more courses in and around the town. Even visitors who aren't playing can enjoy the golfing atmosphere and discover the Old Course on a guided walk.

There is plenty to explore beyond the fairways. St Andrews has medieval streets, the ruins of its cathedral and castle, independent shops, galleries and restaurants. Guests can also head for West Sands Beach or take a drive along the East Neuk, stopping at its beaches and fishing villages. Whether the day is spent golfing, sightseeing or by the sea, Stravithie offers a peaceful place to return to.

Their testimonial

David kindly shared these words with us:

"freeonlinebooking has supported me over the last couple of years and it has been interesting to watch my direct bookings increase dramatically, while my Expedia bookings have fallen by a third.

When guests book direct, I get their full contact details with freeonlinebooking, which is better than Expedia, who now restrict the information they provide."

- David Chalmers, Stravithie Castle, St Andrews

Why this means so much

David has trusted freeonlinebooking to support Stravithie Castle since 2024. Hearing how his bookings have changed in that time means a great deal to us.

We've always encouraged accommodation providers to grow their direct bookings and regularly share practical tips to help them do it. Seeing David's direct bookings increase so dramatically is wonderful, especially when we know how much each booking matters to a small bed and breakfast.

Thank you, David, for sharing your experience and for trusting us to support Stravithie Castle.

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What our customers say about us

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Ace High Motor Inn, Napier