Our Story

About the Fern

Bogenraith Equestrian owners Marion and Ciaran Dreelan originate from a village called Ferns in the north of Wexford in the Republic of Ireland.

Why “The Fern”

A Little Bit of Home

Naming the restaurant The Fern added that little bit of home and a reminder to them of their roots and love for their homeland of Ireland. Leaving Ferns after finishing senior school over 30 years ago, Ciaran and Marion moved and settled down in Aberdeenshire.

The Fern welcomes everybody.

Bogenraith Equestrian is now established as a firm favourite with equestrians and locals. The Fern welcomes everybody, and the Horse Shoe Bar offers a relaxed lounge to catch up over a drink with friends and family.

A fern frond in the sun

The Team

Our team is now firmly established and very much family oriented. We employ local people and support local businesses.

Head Chef Fraser Hobday holding the North East of Scotland Chef of the Year shield
Head Chef Fraser HobdayWith the North East of Scotland Chef of the Year shield, 2025

Meet the Head Chef

Head Chef Fraser Hobday

Joined The Fern in March 2026.

  1. 2026
    Head Chef at The FernJoined The Fern in March 2026
  2. 2025
    North East of Scotland Chef of the YearFinal held 26 May 2025, prize night at The Marcliffe Hotel
  3. 2025
    Andrew Fairlie Scholarship FinalistOne of five finalists

From the Head Chef

His award-winning competition menu from the Chef of the Year 2025 final. This is not today’s menu.

Fraser Hobday’s winning main course: BBQ pork fillet with faggot, rosti, asparagus and apple
His winning main course
First
Poached duck eggJersey Royals, kombu, crowdie and lovage
Main
BBQ pork filletFaggot, rosti, asparagus and apple
Sweet
Rhubarb and stem ginger mille-feuilleToasted almond and vanilla ice cream

Our menus

Ferns

The Town of Ferns

Ferns Castle
Ferns Castle

The town became the capital of the Kingdom of Leinster, and also the capital of Ireland when the kings of that southern part of the province established their seat of power there. It was a very large city but shrank after a fire destroyed most of it.

Before the coming of the Normans, Ferns was the political base of Diarmaid Mac Murragh, king of Leinster. William, Earl Marshal, built the castle around 1200. Since then it has had many owners, of diverse political and military colours.

Originally, the castle formed a square, with large corner towers. Only half of the castle now stands, although what remains is most impressive. The most complete tower contains a beautiful circular chapel, several original fireplaces and a vaulted basement. There is a magnificent view from the top.

We Look Forward to Seeing You!

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