[1] It is notable for the ornate carved sandstone facade,[2] and for its historical connection to the development of musical culture in the local area.

[5] The stonemason who carved the ornate front of the building was William Flint, who had a successful workshop at Saint Mary's Place, Dumfries.

The front also features cherubs, a satyr playing the pan flutes, floral designs, eagles, and keystones carved as human heads.

[7][8][9] Retired Manx businessman Thomas Wilson was tricked into stopping at the hotel, and from there getting into a carriage to make a visit to a local house.

Upon arrival, it became evident that the house was in fact a local insane asylum, the Royal Crichton Institute.