Coul House Hotel

The Coul House Hotel we see today was constructed back in 1821 by the Mackenzie family, who trace their lineage from Clan Mackenzie of Kintail. Yet even before this stunning stone mansion was built, they already held the lands in the area as a baronetcy since 1673. Their domain's proximity to several lochs, as well as the city of Inverness, provided plenty of opportunities for the family to prosper.

Sir George Steuart Mackenzie, the 7th Baronet of Coul, commissioned the architects Richard & Robert Dickson to design a grand country manor for his family. Known by their firm R & R Dickson, the brothers were well-regarded architects and built impressive Gothic and Classical-style works, such as the Tron Kirk tower in Edinburgh. In the case of Coul House, they adhered to Scottish country house conventions, using harled walls for its exterior. They did add their own twists, however, designing the structures as octagonal, instead of the usual square or rectangular form.

Unfortunately, the family fell into decline after World War II, resulting in Sir Robert Evelyn Mackenzie, the 12th Baronet, selling the estate in 1949. The mansion was split into two, each half having different owners, who both rented their side of the property as apartments, then as guesthouses. The mansion was registered as a Category A heritage building in 1971 by the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland, the predecessor of Historic Environment Scotland. Later in 1978, a new owner acquired both halves and opened the estate as a hotel.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

At Coul House Hotel, they won't just pamper you with a fine holiday; they'll also invite you to some of the finest adventures to be found in the Highlands. Explore the amazing natural sites such as the Ness Islands, or the Abriachan Forest Trust Trails. Animal lovers can enjoy encounters with native wildlife by booking a Highlands safari, taking them through forests, crags, and waterways that are home to species like bottlenose dolphins, pine martens, and Scottish wildcats.

For cultural immersion, the nearby city of Inverness is home to several museums and historical landmarks, such as Inverness Castle. The neighboring towns also have heritage attractions, such as the Dingwall Museum and the Beauly Priory.

Other Celebrations

Coul House Hotel offers a refined setting brought about by its tranquil Highland location. Flexible venues with an elegant rural atmosphere are available for your corporate and private functions. Choose from their selection of dedicated spaces for meetings, conferences, and retreats; the hotel even has a purpose-designed conference room that can accommodate single-day or multi-day gatherings. Best of all, Coul House includes a dedicated events planner who works closely with each client to tailor the structure, schedule, and style of the event.

The Octagonal

The stylish drawing room of the mansion, this venue features a tall ceiling and a fireplace.
Capacity: 70 seated guests

The Regency

Attendees can admire the lovely views of the estate grounds from the large bay window or keep warm by the fireplace.
Capacity: 40 seated guests

Boardroom

An intimate den for meetings, discussions, or family celebrations.
Capacity: 12 seated guests

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