Kim and Andy Murray’s passion project, the five-star Cromlix Hotel near Dunblane in Scotland, is about to enter an exciting new phase. The Victorian mansion, steeped in Scottish history, holds significant personal and emotional value for the couple. Not only is it located just a few miles from Andy’s childhood home, but it also served as the venue for their wedding reception in 2015. Now, as owners, they are transforming the hotel into a destination that reflects their vision and love for the area.
With 16 luxurious bedrooms and an acclaimed restaurant, The Glasshouse, Cromlix has established itself as a sought-after location for those seeking a tranquil getaway in the Scottish countryside. In 2023, the hotel underwent a major renovation, with Kim Murray playing a central role in its redesign. Partnering with Suzanne Garuda of Garuda Design, who had previously worked on the Murrays’ home, Kim was instrumental in creating an ambiance that reflects the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The redesign focused on bold colors, textiles, and botanical themes, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes guests feel as though they are in a home away from home.
The renovations are just the beginning of the couple’s ambitious plans for Cromlix. Kim and Andy are now looking to expand the hotel’s offerings by adding a wellness area and luxury cabins, opening Cromlix up to an even wider audience. The wellness center, to be developed from an old cottage on the property, and the cabins around the nearby Loch are part of a larger vision to make Cromlix a destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. Kim shared in an exclusive interview with *Tennis365* that the wellness center and cabins will offer guests a chance to further immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the estate, making Cromlix a hub for both leisure and wellness tourism.
Kim explained that she and Andy took over the management of the hotel themselves at the beginning of 2023, after previously working with a management company for ten years. This move has given them more control and a greater personal connection to the day-to-day operations of the hotel. The couple wanted to ensure that Cromlix reflected their vision and values as owners, which meant moving away from the tennis-themed decor that previously filled the hotel. “We feel like it’s a better reflection of us as owners now, without having tennis rackets and photos of Andy throughout,” Kim explained. “The good news is that the hotel is really thriving.”
The couple’s hands-on approach has allowed them to put their personal stamp on Cromlix, particularly when it comes to art. Andy, who has become an avid art collector in recent years, has added some of his favorite pieces to the hotel’s decor. His collection includes works by David Shrigley, a contemporary British artist known for his humorous and often satirical pieces. Shrigley’s art now hangs near the hotel’s piano, and Andy has even taken an art lesson from the artist during a visit to Cromlix. In addition to Andy’s personal collection, the hotel also features around 70 paintings on loan from the Scottish Royal Academy, showcasing a blend of modern and traditional art throughout the property.
For the Murrays, Cromlix is more than just a business—it’s an opportunity to give back to the local community. Nearly all of the hotel’s 70 employees are from Dunblane or the surrounding Stirlingshire area. Kim expressed pride in being able to offer employment opportunities to local residents and emphasized the importance of creating a positive working environment. “It’s something we are extremely proud of,” she said. “Being good employers is something we really focus on, and I think you can tell that from the staff at the hotel—they are all genuinely happy to be working at Cromlix.”
Looking ahead, Kim and Andy see Cromlix as a long-term project. While Andy’s tennis career keeps him busy, Kim spends a lot of time at the hotel, overseeing operations and planning for its future. Andy, who doesn’t get to Scotland as often as he would like due to his tennis commitments, is eager to spend more time at Cromlix once he retires from the sport. In the meantime, the couple continues to work on improving the guest experience, ensuring that Cromlix remains a place of relaxation and escape for all who visit.
As for the tennis court at Cromlix, Andy admits that it’s been a while since he’s had the chance to play there. “When I go to Scotland, it’s usually a fleeting visit,” he said. “I’m actually keen to try out the pickleball court we’ve got up there now. My mum plays quite a bit, so maybe I’ll challenge her to a game next time I’m there.”
With their shared passion and commitment, Kim and Andy Murray are ensuring that Cromlix remains a jewel in Scotland’s hospitality industry, offering guests a unique blend of luxury, relaxation, and personal connection to the local area. As they continue to expand and develop the hotel, Cromlix is set to become an even more prominent destination for travelers seeking a true Scottish experience.