Our Story

When my Gran, Nancy Gallacher, started outside catering nearly 40 years ago, little did she know her passion would grow into one of the most popular catering companies in Dumfries and Galloway.

 

The journey began around 1985, when Gran took her love for traditional farmhouse cooking to the next level with her close friend Anne Williamson. Backed by my Grandad Iain, Anne’s husband Bill, their children and a loyal team of staff, they brought hearty, home cooked food to thousands of events all over Scotland.

 

After ten years, Anne and Bill stepped away to start their own venture when they bought Burnside Tearoom in Sanquhar. Around the same time, my grandparents were encouraged to diversify the farm’s income. They invested their hard-earned profits into converting an old stable on the family farm at Knockenhair into a commercial kitchen.

 

From this transformation came Knockenhair Caterers, a name that quickly became synonymous with great food and exemplary service. The kitchen allowed the business to expand, take on larger events and establish a permanent base. Gran and her friendly team, instantly recognisable by their bright yellow polo shirts, became a familiar sight at events across the country.

 

Over the years, Knockenhair Caterers built a strong reputation for delicious food and speedy service. Highlights included a marquee charity dinner at Drumlanrig Castle for more than 300 guests, the annual Sanquhar Riding of the Marches, countless weddings and other cherished celebrations.

 

Over time, the team grew to include Gran’s grandchildren, myself among them. We helped at events and have fond memories of being looked after by Gran while she let us lick the whisk (shh don’t tell anyone). By 2010, both Gran and Grandad were ready to think about retirement. The business gradually scaled down, serving only long-standing clients. Finally, in late 2015 at a private party near Dunscore, Knockenhair Caterers served their last guests, and this marked a bittersweet end to the business that was loved by so many and my family dedicated so much to.

 

Fast forward seven years to October 2022. After studying professional cookery and gaining five years of experience in hospitality, especially under the guidance of Angela McIntyre at The Swan in Dumfries, I began exploring the idea of reviving the family business. It became clear there was real appetite for a fresh name in event catering. With the support of my Gran Nancy and the entire Gallacher family, Knockenhair Hospitality was born in January 2023. Our mission was to provide fresh, homemade, locally sourced food for events across the country.

 

What began as a leap of faith quickly grew into something special. Thanks to the strong foundation laid by my Gran and Knockenhair Caterers, we started building our reputation, gaining both established clients and new ones. We have since catered for hundreds of events, including key fixtures such as the Wigtown Book Festival, Sanquhar Riding of the Marches and gala days across Dumfries and Galloway.

 

Our team now includes nearly 30 casual staff and in early 2025 we launched a major refurbishment and extension of the original farm kitchen, which is still based in the converted stable built by my grandparents over 30 years ago. Gran remains actively involved, helping with menu development and offering invaluable advice in the kitchen. We are proud to be one of the most popular catering companies in Dumfries and Galloway and we stay true to the philosophy of good, honest, home cooked food that the business began with.

 

Thank you for reading about our journey. My team and I look forward to serving you in the years ahead.

— Harry Gallacher