Explosion and fire rip through Braemar Lodge hotel in Aberdeenshire

Braemar Lodge hotel in Aberdeenshire has been devastated in an explosion and fire that ripped through the property yesterday.

The hotel's owner told The Caterer it was an "awful situation", adding that accommodation would continue to be offered in the log cabins in the hotel's grounds, with the team looking at options for a pop-up kitchen.

Fire crews were called at around 7:30am to a report of a fire within a shed, however the "severity and rapid spread" of the flames meant the building could not be saved.

Footage shows a dramatic explosion at the property, with flames apparent across all floors of the hotel. All those present were safely evacuated.

Police Scotland have said the fire is not being treated as suspicious.

The seven-bedroom hotel, along with separate 12-berth bunkhouse and nine self-catering chalets were brought to the market for offers over £1.2m in 2017, as former owners Ronnie and Fiona Moore planned their retirement. The couple had owned Braemar Lodge since 1996.

Picture credit: Ballater Fire Station