Business Details
Your Stay at The Old Library in Arisaig
The Old Library is a 200-year-old stone-built stable converted into a charming Restaurant With Rooms, offering a unique blend of historical character and modern comfort. Established in Arisaig, a picturesque village on Scotland's west coast, we provide six tastefully decorated en-suite bedrooms, four with private patios overlooking our garden. Our location on the iconic Road to the Isles places guests within minutes of Skye and Mallaig Harbour, making us an ideal base for exploring the Highlands and Islands. The restaurant showcases bistro-style cuisine using locally sourced produce, including fresh seafood from nearby waters and game from the surrounding countryside.With a history tied to World War II training grounds and Jacobite heritage, our property combines rich storytelling with contemporary hospitality. We prioritise guest comfort through complimentary WiFi, flexible booking options, and a cancellation policy allowing free changes with over 48 hours' notice. Our team, led by Penny and David Buick, brings decades of hospitality experience to ensure memorable stays characterised by warm service and attention to detail. The seasonal pricing structure reflects our commitment to accessibility while maintaining quality standards throughout the year.
Services
Accommodation
Restaurant
Boat Trips
Golf
Hill Walking
Highlights and features
- 200-year-old historic building with modern comforts
- Locally sourced Scottish cuisine with daily specials
- Scenic waterfront location on the Road to the Isles
- Four rooms with private garden patios
- Flexible cancellation policy with 48-hour notice
Services
Accommodation
Our six en-suite bedrooms combine historic charm with modern comforts. Four rooms feature private patios overlooking landscaped gardens, while all include complimentary WiFi. Seasonal pricing starts at 140 for single occupancy, rising to 165 during peak months. The 200-year-old stone building offers a unique setting for exploring the Scottish Highlands.
Restaurant
The bistro-style restaurant showcases local produce including fresh seafood from Mallaig and game from surrounding estates. Menus change regularly to reflect seasonal availability, featuring daily specials on blackboards. Diners enjoy imaginative dishes blending modern Scottish cuisine with French influences in a stone-walled, white-washed setting.
Boat Trips
Nearby Arisaig Harbour provides access to daily boat trips operated by partner companies. These include wildlife cruises to Eigg, Rum, Muck and Canna islands, plus special 2-hour wildlife tours. The MV Sheerwater offers five-day weekly services to Hebridean destinations with opportunities for seal spotting and coastal exploration.
Golf
Traigh Golf Course, located north of Arisaig, offers 9 holes with stunning coastal views. The 4810-yard course features SSS 65 par 68 layout across dramatic Highland terrain. Players enjoy panoramic vistas of the Minch straits while experiencing one of Scotland's most scenic links-style courses.
Hill Walking
The surrounding area provides diverse walking routes from gentle beachcombing to challenging mountain hikes. Notable locations include Loch Morar (UK's second-deepest freshwater loch) and white-sand beaches with turquoise waters. Guided walks and local route recommendations available for all ability levels.
People
Penny Buick
Co-Owner
Penny Buick co-manages The Old Library with her husband David. With decades of hospitality experience, she ensures guests experience warm Highland welcome while maintaining the property's historic character through careful conservation and modern upgrades.
David Buick
Co-Owner
David Buick oversees operations at The Old Library alongside Penny. His expertise in historic building preservation ensures the 200-year-old stable's architectural integrity remains intact while providing contemporary comforts for modern guests.
Questions
How do I book accommodation at The Old Library?
Use our online booking system or contact us directly via phone or email.
What are the room rates during peak season?
Double/twin rooms cost £165 per night from April to October 2025.
Does the hotel offer dining options?
Yes, our bistro-style restaurant serves locally sourced Scottish cuisine daily.
What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation with over 48 hours' notice; 100% charge for shorter notice.
Are there nearby attractions to visit?
Yes, we're near Skye, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and boat trips to Hebridean islands.
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept card payments and cash, but no cheques.
Reviews (5)
Alistair Buckley
May 20, 2022
Report
Hotel is cosy and a little old, but that's the building itself. Amenities are great and Penny and David so accommodating, breakfast is great. The location is superb and minutes from the ferry if that's where you're heading
Lizzie R.
Apr 15, 2022
Report
We've just returned from a two night stay at the end of a trip. It is a jewel of a place: the most delicious meals of the entire holiday and Penny and David are the warmest of hosts. We are spending our first night back planning our return.
Helen Shepherd
Mar 13, 2022
Report
Just a short overnight stay on Thurs 24/3/22 but we can thoroughly recommend this as a base to explore the area. The hosts were friendly and efficient, everywhere was very clean and comfortable and the choice and standard of food was excellent. Particularly enjoyed the traditional kippers which were on the menu for breakfast! Haven't had for years! Thank you. Helen
Dorinda Warwick
Dec 13, 2021
Report
Stayed for three nights last week. We had a lovely room overlooking the loch and marina. The room was lovely, very clean and comfortable. The hosts are friendly and helpful with lots of local knowledge. Best thing of all, the food. It was amazing. Can't wait to return
Alison Wilson
Oct 26, 2021
Report
Just recently home from Arisaig and as usual we popped into the Old Library for dinner one night. The food was delicious, the venison and black pudding bonbons were mmm mmm. Penny and David were the perfect hosts and we look forward to seeing them again next year
