A Legacy of Highland Hospitality: The Story of The Old Inn
Nestled where the rugged peaks of the Torridon Mountains meet the tides of The Minch, The Old Inn has stood as a beacon of warmth for weary travellers for over two centuries. Located in the heart of Gairloch—from the Gaelic Geàrr Loch, meaning ‘short loch’—our historic building is more than just a place to rest; it is a living piece of Highland heritage.
From Changehouse to Coastal Sanctuary
The Old Inn holds the distinction of being the first lodging house in Gairloch. Built in the 1790s by Sir Hector Mackenzie, it began life as a “changehouse” known by the Gaelic name Taigh-Osta Ceann an T-Sail.
In the native tongue, Taigh-osta translates to a hotel or inn, while Ceann an t’Sail beautifully describes our location at the ‘head of the saltwater loch.’ In an era of horse-drawn carriages and arduous journeys, it offered the first taste of authentic Highland hospitality to those navigating the wild northwest coast.
One of our most famous early residents was the renowned geologist and folklorist Hugh Miller. In 1832, Miller worked here as a stonemason. This was long before his books graced the shelves of libraries. During this time, he physically shaped the very walls that house our guests today. By the mid-19th century, the Inn had evolved into a bustling hub. For example, it provided comfortable bedrooms, stable yards, and even boats for guests to explore the loch’s bountiful waters.
A Century of Change
As the Victorian era brought a new wave of explorers to the Highlands, the village transformed. While the larger Gairloch Hotel was built in the 1870s to satisfy the fashions of the day, our building took on a quieter role, serving as the local Post Office and a home to several village families.
It wasn’t until the 1950s that the building returned to its true calling. Reborn as ‘The Old Inn,’ it adapted to the dawn of the motorcar. At that time, petrol pumps stood where the old road wound its way past our doors. Today, the pace is much slower. This is because the main road has moved. Consequently, we are now in a peaceful pocket of Charlestown, just a short stroll from the traditional fishing port.
Your Gateway to the Northwest Highlands
For those seeking NC500 accommodation with soul, The Old Inn remains a cherished destination. Our traditional Whisky bar in Gairloch serves as a gathering point for locals and visitors alike. It is a place where the day’s adventures are recounted and stories are shared over a fine local dram.
We are well-known as one of the dog-friendly hotels in the area, and we love welcoming your four-legged companions. However, we are equally committed to the comfort of all our visitors. We maintain dedicated dog-free guest rooms for our visitors. These rooms ensure a relaxing stay for guests with allergies. Furthermore, we provide specific areas of the Inn where dogs are not permitted. This allows us to accommodate those who prefer a pet-free environment.
Savoring the Spirit of Gairloch
Gairloch is a community defined by the sea. From our doorstep, you can witness the incredible marine wildlife that frequents the harbour, from inquisitive seals to porpoises breaking the surface of the water. This connection to the sea defines our kitchen; we are proud to be a destination for some of the finest seafood in Gairloch, sourced directly from the boats you see bobbing in the nearby pier.
Discover More Local History
If our story has piqued your interest, we highly recommend a visit to the award-winning Gairloch Museum. Housed in a repurposed Cold War bunker, this “Museum of the Year” winner offers a fascinating journey through 7,000 years of local heritage—from Pictish stones to the giant Fresnel lens of the Rua Reidh Lighthouse. It is a must-visit for anyone wishing to truly understand the spirit of Wester Ross.
Step into our story and experience the timeless charm of the Highlands for yourself.