Tarbert House

I came with my son for a week, and Tarbert House turned out to be perfect for us. I’d been a little unsure about staying in a B&B with a four-year-old, but having use of the kitchen if we needed it helped. We loved it enough to start planning another visit already. Breakfast had changed because of Covid, but we thought it was fantastic and there was plenty for breakfast and lunch. The co-op is a minute away on foot, and there are several places to eat. We had delicious meals at Peatzeria across the road. I’d recommend staying here and can’t wait to return.

I’m really sad that I never got to see Islay. I booked Tarbert House through a booking website a month ahead and confirmed my arrival and departure times, which the B&B noted. Then, just two days before I was due to arrive, the website told me Tarbert House couldn’t accommodate me. No reason was given by the house. The site found an alternative, but it cost £100 more, which wasn’t acceptable for a two-night stay at such short notice. When I contacted Tarbert House, they blamed the booking website for double-booking. I’d been treated as a confirmed customer a month earlier, with the messages to show it, but that suddenly changed two days before the trip. It didn’t feel very considerate, and they didn’t contact me directly. I had to cancel my ferry too, making an already upsetting situation worse and cutting short a carefully planned holiday.

They cancelled our bookings after selling the business and left us stranded. We were travelling from Australia, so it wasn't the Scottish hospitality we expected. I have no further comment on the accommodation itself.

The room was cozy and comfortable, with an ensuite, and the shower was fantastic. Everything was very clean and tidy, and the place had recently been refurbished. Breakfast was great too. I’d definitely stay again when I’m back on Islay.