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.

Coul House Hotel is now owned by Stuart and Susannah Macpherson, who acquired the estate in 2003 after falling in love with its rustic grandeur. Over the years, they've been meticulously restoring and maintaining the estate, as well as expanding with new rooms and facilities while adhering to the building's heritage aspects.

Design and Architecture

Although Coul House Hotel is a notable example of early 19th-century Scottish country house architecture, it is also known for its unconventional aspects. These include the octagonal structure of its central building, then flanked by two octagonal wings. It is this highly uncommon layout that won it recognition as a Category A protection from the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland back in 1971.

Apart from the structure, the interiors of Coul House are also recognized by Historic Environment Scotland. They highlighted surviving features, such as the octagonal drawing room and its decorative plaster ceiling. There's also the entrance hall and stairwell that preserve and draw out the spatial clarity of the octagonal layout. Select rooms and common spaces also retained their original 19th-century chimney pieces, including the distinct black marble fireplaces.

Treat yourself to gourmet Scottish delights during your stay at Coul House Hotel. Their on-site restaurant, led by Chef Garry Kenley, promises course lunches and dinners that serve the finest samples of authentic Highland cuisine, each crafted using regional ingredients. Aside from Scottish beef, pork chops, and duck, they also serve fresh catches sourced from local fishers. These can then be paired with vintages and other drinks chosen from their wine list. They also make adjustments for guests with allergies and other dietary limitations.

Teatime is an important part of the day in the United Kingdom, so take part in this beloved British tradition by joining the hotel's Afternoon Tea service. Offered in an a la carte menu, you'll have free rein on what tasty snacks and sinful desserts will complement your tea or coffee.

Breakfast: 7:30am - 10 am
Lunch: 12 pm - 2:15 pm
Soup & Sandwiches: 12 pm - 11 pm
Afternoon Tea: 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Dinner: 6 pm - 9 pm

Set in a beautiful country estate, Coul House can provide a stunning backdrop for your magical destination wedding. Work together with your dedicated wedding planner to get every detail of your special day right. You'll be able to customize every aspect of your wedding, from Chef Garry Kenley's catering to the decor of the venue. Venues can also be scaled up or down, and the hotel can accommodate up to 80 guests during the day, or 140 in the evening. Weddings are also available year-round, not just during the warmer months, so you can celebrate a wondrous wedding if you so desire.

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