Since 1992 Emma and Stuart Peacock have passionately endeavoured to make this former coaching inn, established in 1759, one of the best family-run village hotels in the Greater Glasgow area. With 14 rooms, The Uplawmoor includes lots of lovely touches, such as a decanter of sherry awaiting guests on the landing for a little aperitif.

Greeted by Stuart on our arrival, we entered a cosy cocktail bar - featuring a central copper hood over an open fire - where we ordered from the à la carte menu before taking our seats in the restaurant. Dressed with rust-coloured jacquard drapes, the walls hung with old photographs, the restaurant exudes warmth and comfort. My partner reported her West Coast king scallops on slices of Stornoway black pudding to be cooked just right - the creamy flesh sharply complemented by the black pudding. My twice-baked goat's cheese soufflé with apple chutney and walnut crostinis provided a vegetarian option - the soufflé delightful in its subtlety and creaminess. To accompany, the wine list held many attractions - unfortunately I was driving. Choosing a sirloin steak garni, my partner proclaimed the meat 'perfect' and praised the hand-cut chips for their golden casing and even texture. My sliced roast duck breast on a plinth of Savoy cabbage sautéed with bacon and served with a port jus was delicious. Fondant potato and roasted on-the-vine tomatoes, exploding with flavour, completed the plate. Served up by the friendly and very professional staff, each dish was beautifully presented, each plate causing us to pause and admire before 'spoiling' the arrangement.

After a short break we were served a wonderful vanilla pannacotta with macerated raspberry, which definitely had the wow factor, and we finished with the cheeseboard, which included the gorgeous Strathdon. The restaurant and two bars are patronised by locals and visitors alike. The lounge is bustling and friendly, serving a good range of cask ales and food. We enjoyed an excellent evening and hope to revisit this gem of a village hotel very soon.