The oldest inn on Skye, opened in 1790 on the shore at Stein, with five refurbished sea-facing bedrooms and shellfish landed across the road.
What's nearby
- Beachcomber Cottage next door
- Loch Bay Restaurant next door
- Divers Eye Boat Trips 150m away
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Good to know
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
Details via Google — worth confirming with the hotel before you travel, especially for access needs.
About Stein Inn
The Stein Inn opened its doors in 1790 and is the oldest inn on the Isle of Skye. It stands on the waterfront in Stein, a small conservation village on the Waternish peninsula laid out by Thomas Telford as part of a British Fisheries Society settlement, and the row of white cottages along the shore has changed remarkably little since.
There are five bedrooms, all facing the sea and all refurbished in recent years, with en-suite bathrooms and views west across Loch Bay towards the Outer Hebrides. The bar is a proper one — flagstones, peat fire, a long whisky list and locals who use it year round — and the kitchen serves lunch and dinner daily. Shellfish comes from the loch directly opposite: lobster, brown crab, langoustines and mussels, alongside island meat, fresh fish and honest fish and chips.
Waternish is one of Skye's quieter peninsulas and makes a good base for the north-west. Dunvegan Castle is fifteen minutes away, Neist Point about forty, and the Coral Beaches a short drive plus a walk. Sunsets from the front of the inn are among the best on the island. It is small, popular and open through the winter, so book the rooms well ahead and the restaurant table when you arrive.
What guests say
My wife and I had an excellent lunch at The Stein Inn. My wife’s fish and chips was a generous portion with classy mushy peas and tartare sauce. I had a very plump, line caught bass with lots of dill and two salads. All was absolutely delicious and the service was great A word of warning. Firstly, a service charge was added to our bill. It is on the menu and called discretionary but it caught me out. Also, the menu prices were before VAT. The combination of the two added charges increased the bill somewhat.
a month ago · via Google
A hidden gem of a pub with outstanding food and friendly service. We arrived in the afternoon and, despite being busy, the staff kindly seated us at a table reserved for later in the evening. The food was delicious—the venison steak was superb, and the Fish & Chips portion was massive (honestly enough for two, maybe three people!). Parking directly in front is limited, but there is a larger parking lot at the end of the street. Highly recommended for an authentic and tasty meal!
3 months ago · via Google
We stayed there for two nights and, frankly, the value for money is hard to beat. It is the oldest inn on the island, yet the place is truly charming — incredibly cosy, warm, and decorated with great taste. It retains its authentic character while incorporating a modern, contemporary touch. The same can be said for the cuisine. The chef is excellent, handling flavours and sauces with a very modern approach. Prices are slightly on the higher side, but it is absolutely worth it. The whole sea bass was perfectly cooked and delicately infused with rosemary, the langoustines were wonderful, and the fish soup alone is reason enough to return every evening. Santiago brings a great deal of life and spirit to this lovely place, with a genuine personality that makes you want to return and exchange a few words. He always has a kind remark for his guests. Stephan is also very pleasant, welcoming and attentive. A place full of charm that we can only recommend to those who truly enjoy living well, appreciate places rich with history and stories, and above all love the culinary craft of seafood. Bravo and thank you very much. Roméo & Jade
5 months ago · via Google
We did not stay here. we did eat at thier resturaunt. A cozy little place along the coast. The people were amazing the food was next level. the parking was a little hairy and the drive down the single road was interesting but hey this is Scotland and thats what they do. it did not in anyway affect my review. a must if on the isle of skye
2 months ago · via Google
Diners like this restaurant's fresh, delicious seafood, including mussels, sea bass, and fish and chips, as well as hearty venison steak. They also highlight the cozy, authentic atmosphere and friendly, attentive staff.
Some reviews mention the service can be slow.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Macleods Terrace, Stein, Isle of Skye, IV55 8GA Get directions
- Property type
- Inn
- Location
- Stein, Waternish peninsula
- Star rating
- 3 star
- Guest score
- 9.0 / 10 (430 reviews)
- Prices from
- £120 per night
- Good for children
- Yes
- Booking required
- Yes
- Destination
- Isle of Skye