Mingary Castle

Mingary Castle began its life in the late 13th century, built right by the water so the Lords of the Isles could control the area. The Crown never liked that, and the whole region was caught up in constant feuding. Things only calmed a bit after Angus, Lord of the Isles, was killed in 1490. His successor supported the Crown, and even King James IV sailed out to visit the castle in 1493.

Peace did not last long. After the King passed away, the fighting across the Highlands picked up again. Mingary was attacked twice, first in 1515 and again in 1517. The MacIans managed to take it back, but another battle soon cost their chief and his two sons their lives. By the early 1600s, the clan was in a long clash with the Campbells. The Campbells eventually won, and Sir Donald Campbell took over the castle in 1628. Once those years of conflict passed, the castle slowly slipped into ruin. Roofs caved in, walls broke apart, and plants filled the rooms where people once lived.

That remained the case for centuries until a three-year restoration, completed in 2016 under the oversight of the Mingary Castle Restoration Trust, revitalized the castle. Established by the owner, Donald Houston, the Trust worked with Historic Scotland and skilled tradesmen. Craftsmen stabilized stone walls, rebuilt battlements, added new roofs, and uncovered finds such as a cannonball and 13th-century graffiti.

Over more than seven hundred years, the castle has seen royalty, battles, clan rivalries, and moments that shaped the region. It feels calm now, but its walls still carry all those stories.

Today, Mingary Castle also carries a remarkable reputation for excellence, having won AA Restaurant with Rooms of the Year for the UK in 2024, Scotland’s AA Restaurant of the Year at the AA B&B Awards, three AA Rosettes, and five AA Gold Stars. It has featured on The Times Top 100 Places to Stay in Britain and was named Best Restaurant with Rooms at the 2025 Good Hotel Guide Cesar Awards, cementing its place among Scotland’s finest historic stays.

Mingary Castle blends careful restoration with a clear respect for its original character. Much of the old stonework has been saved, giving the exterior its solid, timeless look. The team strengthened the curtain walls, rebuilt the battlements, added new roofs, and shaped each stone so the structure feels both sturdy and true to its thirteenth-century form. Inside the main range, you now see new gables, chimneys, timber beams, and floors with hidden heating that make the spaces warm and comfortable.

The chapel room, set deep within the thick outer wall, keeps its medieval mood but carries fresh oak details and discreet new supports. Georgian-style windows brighten the courtyard and give it a cleaner, more refined appearance. Across the rooms, Caithness stone floors and warm wood interiors add a simple, grounded feel, with eighteenth-century Georgian touches.

Today, the castle feels calm and polished, with oak panelling, a hand-carved staircase, and well-placed modern comforts creating a space that feels classic. Each suite has its own personality, and the living and dining rooms carry a quiet grandeur that suits the castle’s setting. Step outside the walls, or walk along the battlements, and the views of the surrounding landscape complete the experience.

Mingary Castle’s restaurant is a real treat, proudly holding a three AA Rosette for top-notch cooking. Chef patron Colin Nicholson keeps the focus on the best of Scotland’s West Coast, using seasonal, sustainable, and local ingredients wherever he can. You can pick from a five or eight-course tasting menu that changes daily, all made with care to give you a meal you won’t forget. The front-of-house team is there to make sure everything goes smoothly. They know their Scottish produce and add a little bit of luxury to every dish, so your time at the castle feels special. If you’ve got any allergies or dietary needs, let the team know when you book or at least 48 hours before so they can sort it out. Advance booking is a must.

Opening hours:
Dinner: Wednesday to Sunday, 6.30 pm to 8.30 pm
Lunch: Thursdays and Sundays, 12.20 pm to 2 pm, until the winter season
Afternoon tea: Fridays, 12.30 pm to 2 pm, until the winter season

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

There’s plenty to do at Mingary Castle, whether you want to stay on the grounds or head out and explore. Right at the castle, you can have a picnic in the garden, wander around, or take a short hike and just enjoy the wild Highland views. The castle has partnered with nearby Sunart Cycles, and provides bicycles for hire, making it easy to explore Ardnamurchan and its stunning scenery. The staff are happy to point you to the best trails and give you maps so you can find your way. For longer outings, the kitchen can prepare a picnic to take along, so guests can enjoy the landscape without having to pause for a meal.

Nearby, there’s a lot to see. Check out the Ardnamurchan Natural History Visitor Centre, or visit historic spots like Dùn Ara and Castle Tioram. For some fresh air, head to Aros Park or Langamull Beach on the Isle of Mull. The coastline is rugged and beautiful, perfect for walks, spotting wildlife, or snapping some photos.

Kilchoan is a hidden gem, with rolling hills, cliffs, and quiet beaches. You can hike, cycle, fish, or just explore the area. Pop into the village for local seafood or a pint at a friendly pub and enjoy the Scottish hospitality.

Don’t miss Ardnamurchan Point and Lighthouse, the most westerly point of mainland Britain. The views of the Atlantic and nearby islands are stunning, and the coastal paths are perfect for a peaceful wander. Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife, or just taking in the scenery, it’s a spot that really sticks with you. From chilling at the castle to exploring the Highlands, there’s something for everyone here.

During Christmas, Mingary Castle offers a 6‑course festive dinner prepared by Chef Colin. Guests can enjoy the meal in the warm, cozy restaurant, then relax by the fire in the lounge with a whisky or a cocktail. The dinner tends to fill up quickly, so booking in advance is recommended. It’s a chance to enjoy a traditional festive menu in a historic setting, combining seasonal flavors. Over New Year, the castle comes alive with fireworks lighting up the sky, lively celebrations, and a festive atmosphere, making it a memorable way to ring in the year.

Mingary Castle may be able to host small, intimate gatherings or private celebrations, ideal for a personal occasion with family or friends. For corporate events or meetings, it’s best to contact the team directly to see what they can accommodate. They can advise on what’s possible and help explore options, ensuring you have the information needed to plan your event and make it as smooth and enjoyable as possible.