Castlebay Hotel
Castlebay, Isle of Barra · Hotel
View on Google MapsPhoto: Castlebay Hotel
A harbourside hotel in Barra's main village, overlooking Kisimul Castle, with a bar popular for local music.
Photos
Photos via Google
About Castlebay Hotel
The Castlebay Hotel sits above the harbour in Barra's main village, with views across the water to Kisimul Castle on its rocky islet. It has long been a social hub for the island as well as a place to stay, with a bar that regularly hosts local musicians and draws islanders alongside guests.
Rooms are simply furnished, many with views over the bay, and the hotel's restaurant serves seafood landed nearby alongside more familiar pub-style dishes, making it an easy base for evenings when travelling with a mixed group.
Its position in Castlebay puts the ferry terminal, shops and Kisimul Castle boat trips within walking distance, and the island's beach airport at Traigh Mhòr and the beaches of Vatersay are both within a short drive for anyone exploring Barra over a few days.
Reception hours
- Monday
- Open 24 hours
- Tuesday
- Open 24 hours
- Wednesday
- Open 24 hours
- Thursday
- Open 24 hours
- Friday
- Open 24 hours
- Saturday
- Open 24 hours
- Sunday
- Open 24 hours
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What guests say
Great location just up the hill from the ferry and good access to some walks from the town. The staff was friendly and helpful. The owner makes pottery for purchase and it’s used for all the dish-ware in the restaurant. Food was excellent for breakfast and dinner with some nice local specials. They had a local whisky flight that let us try some distilleries we had not heard of and was great!
3 months ago · via Google
Oh my where to begin? The most iconic place on Barra of you ask me. MacNiell Castle right out front on the ocean which views are spectacular. You can watch so much from above. The quality of food is exceptional, owner Brian is on top of everything. A beer garden outside, fun bar inside. We didn't stay however I'm aware the rooms are lovely!
3 months ago · via Google
We stayed 2 nights and had two totally different experiences. The first night in a smaller room, cosy and no view, but warm and good service when we arrived and at dinner. The only complaint was sinewy venison. Second night was in an expensive suite, and disappointing as no hot water and no heating. Apparently the whole place had no hot water. So £285 a night and you couldn’t have a hot shower or bath. Although they did give a discount on checking out. Service at breakfast was mixed, first morning was good, second morning there was one lovely waitress who couldn’t be more helpful, the other, taller one, was the opposite. Forgot the order so had to ask again for what I wanted. Also walked off whilst I was talking to her, mid-conversation, turned her back on me and I was talking to her rear, plain rude. I guess she didn’t want to hear what I was saying. The whole place needs improvement, and the some staff need weeding out.
2 months ago · via Google
The hotel was amazing and we enjoyed our stay. The staff were so friendly and helpful. We will definitely be back. Decor could be up graded
a month ago · via Google
Diners like this hotel's delicious and fresh seafood, especially the langoustines and scallops, and appreciate the variety of local produce. They also highlight the friendly and attentive staff, the reasonable prices, and the stunning views of the bay and castle.
Some reviews mention the decor can be dated.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- The Square, Castlebay, Isle of Barra, HS9 5XD Get directions
- Property type
- Hotel
- Location
- Castlebay, Isle of Barra
- Star rating
- 3 star
- Guest score
- 8.2 / 10 (420 reviews)
- Prices from
- £120 per night
- Good for children
- Yes
- Destination
- Outer Hebrides