Business Details
Your Home Away From Home in South Uist
Lochboisdale Hotel has been a cherished family-run establishment since its founding in 1882. Nestled in the heart of South Uist within the Outer Hebrides, our hotel combines historic charm with modern comforts. The MacAulay family has dedicated over two decades to preserving the hotel's rich heritage while offering guests an authentic island experience. Each of our 15 en-suite rooms, including family-friendly and premier options, provides a unique blend of traditional decor and contemporary amenities. Our property overlooks Lochboisdale Bay, offering breathtaking views of Canna and Rhum.We pride ourselves on creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere where guests can relax by the peat fire or explore the island's natural beauty. With our prime location adjacent to the ferry terminal, we serve as an ideal base for adventurers discovering the Western Isles. Our staff's local knowledge and personal touch ensure every stay is memorable. The hotel's historical significance is preserved through original features and guest books dating back to its opening. We remain committed to maintaining this legacy while providing exceptional service to both leisure and business travellers.
Services
Single Rooms
Double Rooms
Twin Rooms
Family Rooms
Premier King Room
Bar Service
Restaurant
Ferry Terminal Access
Local Tour Information
Historical Tours
Highlights and features
- Family-run for over 20 years with deep local knowledge
- Historic property with original 1882 guest books preserved
- Panoramic sea views from most rooms across three sides
- Adjacent to ferry terminal with easy mainland connections
- Perfect base for exploring UNESCO-listed landscapes
What people say
Breathtaking sea views
Rich historical atmosphere
Friendly family service
Perfect island base
Authentic Gaelic experience
Services
Single Rooms
Our cosy Single Rooms offer comfortable en-suite accommodation with views of Lochboisdale Harbour. Designed for solo travellers seeking a peaceful base, these rooms combine traditional decor with modern amenities. The compact yet functional layout ensures a restful stay while exploring the island's natural wonders.
Double/Twin Rooms
Spacious Double and Twin Rooms provide picturesque views from both sides of the hotel. Each en-suite room features premium bedding and heritage-inspired decor. Ideal for couples or friends sharing, these rooms offer a perfect balance of comfort and island charm for two guests.
Family Rooms
Luxurious Family Rooms accommodate up to five guests with double, single, and bunk beds. En-suite facilities and panoramic views of Canna and Rhum create a memorable family experience. The generous space allows families to relax together while enjoying the hotel's historic atmosphere.
Premier King Room
Our premier kingsize room offers enhanced luxury for special occasions. Featuring premium bedding, upgraded amenities, and uninterrupted sea views. The room's elegant design creates a romantic setting with direct access to the hotel's historic common areas.
Historical Tours
Guided tours of the hotel's historic features including original 1882 guest books and architectural details. Guests learn about Bonnie Prince Charlie's 1746 visit and Flora MacDonald's local connections. The tours contextualise the hotel's role in island history and maritime traditions.
People
Calum MacAulay
Owner/Manager
Calum MacAulay has managed Lochboisdale Hotel for over two decades, preserving its 19th-century character while modernising guest services. His family's deep roots in South Uist enable him to share authentic island knowledge with visitors.
Karen MacAulay
Co-Owner
Karen MacAulay contributes to the hotel's operations with her expertise in hospitality management. Together with Calum, she ensures guests experience traditional Gaelic warmth while enjoying contemporary comforts in this historic property.
Questions
Is Lochboisdale Hotel open year-round?
We operate seasonally from April 1st to September 30th annually, closing during the winter months for maintenance and preservation.
What room types are available?
We offer Single Rooms, Double/Twin Rooms, Family Rooms sleeping five, and a Premier King Suite with luxury amenities.
How do I reach the hotel?
The hotel sits at Lochboisdale Ferry Terminal, accessible by Caledonian MacBrayne ferries from Mallaig or Barra. Regular bus services connect to local attractions.
Can I book guided historical tours?
While we don't offer formal tours, our staff share the hotel's 1882 history and local Bonnie Prince Charlie connections during your stay.
Are meals included in accommodation?
Our restaurant serves breakfast and evening meals with local seafood specialties. Menus become available each March for the season.
Reviews (4)
John Eeles
Jun 16, 2022
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A faded elegance to parts of this hotel but boy does the food make up for it! A average looking menu, but the chef knows his shizzle and scallops, neeps and tatties, salmon and rib eye were really excellent.full marks! Our room is cosy, and great view( 7) and the bar is just where you want to be on a rainy cold evening. A great pit stop.
David Richards
May 29, 2022
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We came here to eat as we were staying nearby. Clearly something has happened to this hotel in the last nine months since the last review. It's kicked about, care worn, badly lacking in care and attention and in great need of a lick of paint. The lounge was dark and dingy. The floor in the dining room was dirty and sticky. The staff were unhelpful and gave the impression that they didn't really like working there. The food was boring, mundane and nothing like the menus that you see online. Don't bother going there.
Dadddave
Sep 22, 2021
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Great service, food and a lovely place to watch the sun go down and the ferry arrive. Definitely would go again.
Callous Derpallous
Aug 20, 2021
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Clean rooms with good service and traditional decorum. The feeling is definitely as if you're visiting an older hotel with some history to it. The restaurant is good if you pick your dish right. The grilled steak was fairly tough and definitely not worth getting but the soups and haddock were fantastic!
