The Dowans Hotel
The Dowans Hotel needed a website that reflected the quality and character of this family-run Speyside hotel while making it easy for guests to explore its rooms, dining, whisky and the surrounding area. Project 404 has been involved with The Dowans from the very beginning, creating its original online presence and continuing to support the business as it has grown and evolved. The current bespoke WordPress site brings together clear booking routes, rich editorial content and responsive design, backed by ongoing development, maintenance and technical support. During that time, The Dowans has gone on to earn international recognition, including selection by the MICHELIN Guide and being featured among its standout new hotel additions for 2026. We also designed and developed the website for The Dowans’ sister hotel, Hotel 1881 Archiestown.
CLIENT:
The Dowans Hotel
YEAR:
2012 - To Present
WEBSITE:
The Project
Project 404 designed and developed a bespoke WordPress website for The Dowans Hotel, creating a polished and flexible online presence that better reflects the style, personality and range of experiences offered by the hotel.
The site includes dedicated sections for rooms and booking, restaurant dining, MBar, The Still whisky bar, afternoon tea, news and events, and local information covering Speyside and the surrounding area. Clear booking routes are used throughout, helping guests move easily from browsing to reserving a room or table.
Particular attention was given to showcasing the hotel’s food, drink and whisky offering. The Still is home to a collection of more than 750 whiskies, making it a major part of the Dowans experience and reflecting the hotel’s deep connection with Speyside’s whisky culture, alongside destinations such as Ballindalloch Distillery. That commitment to the region has also been recognised through the Spirit of Speyside Ambassador Award, presented to co-owners Steph and Lauren Murray in recognition of their dedication to the local whisky community and the hospitality they offer to visitors.
We continue to support the site with ongoing maintenance, updates, content changes and technical support, helping to keep it secure, reliable and up to date as the hotel evolves.
“Working with Tim over the last few years on our business websites has been a true pleasure. He is always incredibly prompt and helpful, whether resolving an issue or bringing our ideas to life. Nothing is ever too much trouble, and his friendly, professional approach makes him an absolute pleasure to work with. I couldn’t recommend him highly enough!”
Lauren Murray | Managing Director
Thinking About a New Website?
Whether you have a clear brief or are just starting to explore the possibilities, we’re always happy to talk through ideas. If you’d like to chat about your project, get in touch.