Islay House

The room was run down, with crumbling walls and ceiling, and black mold in the shower. Breakfast was disappointing too: cereal, toast and children’s cheese sticks. Coffee might have been passable, but the only staff member disappeared and didn’t come back, while the machine was out of water and milk. The website says there’s a working “peat cutter whatever bar,” but I couldn’t find it anywhere on the premises. If I return to the island, I’d choose somewhere else.

The price is on the cheaper side for the island, which makes this place hard to judge. If I think of it as cheap and cheerful, I’d give it a solid 4/5. For a hotel claiming to be 4*, it’s more like 2/5. The building is grand and full of character, with a large, well-furnished room and a massive bathroom. Reception and breakfast staff were very friendly and helpful. But the hotel clearly needs serious investment: paint is faded and flaking all over, and the patch repairs look cheap. There aren’t nearly enough staff, either. Our room was dusty, with dead spiders around the window. We told reception on the first day; they took note, but nothing changed. Housekeeping only topped up the milk, coffee, tea and shortbread. It all gave the impression of a place stretched too thin. Breakfast was fine, though I think the potato scones weren’t properly cooked. As far as I could tell, three staff were trying to run everything and being pulled in every direction. The owner has some very good staff. If they had the resources to run the place properly, the hotel could live up to its grand setting.

We brought our dog, and everywhere except the dining room was dog friendly. The grounds are good for walks, though you’ll need a torch at night. There are no evening meals, but you can avoid the road by walking through the woods to the left of the drive to dog-friendly Katie’s bar. Book ahead: we didn’t one night, couldn’t get food, and had to go to the Spar opposite, which is expensive. Katie’s wasn’t cheap either, our fish and chips, venison burger and two pints came to £55. The only thing I’d add to improve the stay is a fridge in the room, since the hotel doesn’t serve food. I was a bit unsure after reading some reviews, but we had the best four-night stay. Breakfast was good quality and delicious, with cooked food, cereal, croissants and toast to choose from. The hotel is stunning, and sitting in the bar felt regal. Drinks were well priced, £6 for a glass of wine and under £5 for a single Jura whisky. It’s exceptionally quiet, so it’s not for anyone looking for a holiday buzz, but it’s just right for unwinding. Some areas need updating, like the stair carpets, and renovations are planned for 2026. We couldn’t fault the stay overall. When we needed them, the staff were helpful and accommodating, though we didn’t see them often, and cameras are used to see where guests are downstairs. Thanks for a wonderful stay, Islay house.

A huge area around the place is great for walks, with stunning scenery. There were no children at all, just calm and quiet. You’ll definitely like it.