The Carlton Seamill guest house has to be one of Scotland's hidden gems, and easily worth five stars! The house is beautifully elegant and spotlessly clean, the food is wonderful, and Avril Rennie—the owner and lifetime resident—is a most charming, erudite and helpful person. It took me a little while to find a taxi from the station, so it was quite late in the evening by the time I rang the doorbell. Nevertheless, Avril was at the door in seconds to offer me a warm welcome to her home. She showed me to my room and I could hardly believe my eyes: thick, high-quality carpets and curtains, a huge double bed, vintage furniture, a built-in washstand and tea and coffee facilities all laid on. It was lovely and warm and I felt at home immediately. Clambering into bed, the electric blanket was a very pleasant surprise not to be found in even the best multi-star hotels. I slept like a log. The following morning I was catching the early ferry sailing to Arran, so I had arranged with Avril to have breakfast at 5:45am. This was a sumptuous affair: orange juice, cereal, toast and marmalade, followed by a plate of eggs, bacon, sausage, black pudding, haggis and tomato, all washed down with a delicious pot of tea. Avril had set me up for the day in true Scots style! On returning to my room the sun was up, and drawing back the heavy drapes offered me the most spectacular views of the Firth of Clyde and Isle of Arran. This is a prospect to die for! Having made sure that I was in a fine state to face another day's travel, Avril then helped me on my way by cheerily giving me a lift to the ferry terminal. I cannot praise this guest house enough. I am a sixty-something transitioning transwoman, and April's warmth, friendliness and understanding made all the difference to my holiday. Absolutely full marks for a top-notch establishment. Steffie Parr (Ms)