Despite its rather dour beige facade, touches of the hotel's original Scottish Baronial style are evident in the odd arched gable and domed tower. The Kingsmills Hotel occupies a mansion dating back to 1786 and has plenty of historical cache: It was once home to William Inglis -- the Provost (mayor) of Inverness toward the end of the 18th century -- and it hosted poet Robert Burns around the same time. The property was converted into a hotel in 1947 by the MacLeod family and has since been extended with both sympathetic and contemporary architectural add-ons. The lobby itself has a more old-fashioned look, with ornate coving, gilt-framed etchings, and tasseled drapery combining to create a traditional atmosphere. The hotel is set on four acres of well-tended gardens comprising manicured lawns and mature trees, while the most recent addition -- the Kingsclub section -- was completed in 2010 and includes the hotel's spa and 37 suites that overlook the neighboring golf club. Clientele consists of a fair share of golfing groups as well as large events and tours, while the hotel also attracts vacationing couples and families with kids. 

The hotel is a set back from a fairly busy road located on the southeast outskirts of Inverness. While the property is surrounded by plenty of green space -- most of it belonging to the Inverness Golf Club -- the city center is within walking distance and can be reached in about 15 minutes. A nearby bus stop also connects to the city's main shopping and dining areas in about seven minutes, or it's a five-minute taxi ride. Inverness Airport is 20 minutes away by car, while the main train station is a 10-minute drive from the hotel. Loch Ness, home to the legendary monster, is also easily accessible by car in about 30 minutes.

The hotel has 134 rooms that include a range of types from the traditionally styled Classic Rooms to more fresh and contemporary Kingsclub and Garden Rooms. The recently built Garden Rooms feature large windows overlooking the attractive grounds, while Patio Rooms open onto furnished patios. All rooms are spacious and include electric kettles for coffee or tea, flat-screen TVs with Sky channels, and free Wi-Fi. The Kingsclub and Garden Rooms also provide iPod docks, minibars, and bathrobes, plus some have balconies or terraces overlooking the tenth green of the neighboring golf club. A couple of balconies, however, look out on to the road and some of the decor in Classic Rooms is showing signs of wear -- these rooms also look a bit dated, with old patterned carpets set with clashing upholstered chairs. Decor in Garden Rooms is far nicer, with wood floors, contemporary furniture, and a bright vibe overall. Guests should know that some rooms are on the basement level and have little or no view.

There are two options for dining at the Kingsmills Hotel, though reviews are mixed for both venues. Set in the 18th-century part of the property, the Inglis Restaurant serves two- or three-course meals fusing traditional Scottish cooking with contemporary touches. The Conservatory offers an a la carte menu comprising locally-sourced seafood and steaks. A decent breakfast buffet with hot and cold options is served each morning, but is not generally included in the rate. Room service is available around the clock.

The hotel's leisure club includes a heated indoor swimming pool, fitness center, sauna, and hot tub as well as a spa with three treatment rooms and a hair salon. There are several meeting rooms and event space. The hotel can also arrange transport to local golf courses, while those with cars have access to ample on-site parking free of charge. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.