An Aberdeenshire mother-daughter duo, Agnes Bulloch and Marilyn Childs Duncan, took the spotlight on Channel 4’s Four in a Bed. Bogenraith House, their family-run B&B nestled in Durris, opened its doors to the scrutiny of fellow hospitality enthusiasts. The show’s premise is simple—four B&Bs, four nights, and four sets of guests who pay what they deem fair for their stay. As the guests ventured north to the picturesque location, they were in for a treat and a dash of drama.
A Warm Welcome in the North-East
First on the guest list were Sharmin Hossain and Sarah Lownie from the Lovat Hotel in Perth. Nestled in the Mary Queen of Scots room, priced at £180 per night, Sarah marveled at the luxury, proclaiming, “Nothing but the best here. Beautiful.” The stage was set for a delightful stay, with a touch of elegance and warmth.
Pam Taylor, the owner of Cairngorm Glamping, followed suit, stepping into the MacDonald room priced at £130 per night. Her reaction was one of sheer delight, exclaiming, “Wow. Absolutely love it. Lots of sparkle, it’s like my perfect room.” The charm and character of the Bogenraith House seemed to win hearts effortlessly, promising a memorable experience for all.
The Unveiling of Flaws and Charms
However, not all was smooth sailing as the guests made some intriguing discoveries. Sarah and Sharmin were taken aback by the dust in the drawer and the questionable cleanliness of the sink plug. Pam, on the other hand, saw no blemishes, praising her “perfect bathroom” and the delightful Highland cow soap. The contrasts in perceptions added a layer of intrigue and raised questions about the art of hospitality.
A unique blend of history and entertainment awaited the guests at the Gordon Highlanders Museum in Aberdeen, leaving them captivated. The day concluded at Scott Skinner’s Restaurant and Bar in Banchory, with Marilyn serenading the group, adding a personal touch to the overall experience. The guests were in for a treat, both for the palate and the soul.
As the night unfolded, sleep became the topic of discussion. While some found solace in the peace and tranquility of their rooms, Dean’s fears materialized as the “spongy and soft and weird” mattress kept him wide awake. The nuances of a good night’s rest became a central theme, highlighting the importance of comfort in the hospitality industry.
Breakfast time brought forth a myriad of flavors, from the “big Scottish” to smoked salmon and fluffy scrambled eggs. Each dish was a testament to the culinary expertise of the hosts, drawing praise and admiration from the guests. The art of breakfast was elevated to an experience, leaving a lasting impression on the visitors.
In the end, Marilyn’s resilience was tested as the cleanliness rating sparked a wave of emotions. While criticism was welcomed, a low score left her feeling “angry,” showcasing the vulnerability that comes with hosting strangers. Despite the ups and downs, two out of three teams expressed their desire to return to Bogenraith House, a testament to the charm and allure of this Aberdeenshire gem.
As the episode drew to a close, the promise of more adventures loomed on the horizon. Four in a Bed continues to delight audiences with its unique blend of hospitality, drama, and human connection. The journey through Bogenraith House was a glimpse into the world of innkeeping, where flaws and charms intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. The stage is set for more tales of warmth, luxury, and the essence of true hospitality.
