HistoricStays101
Fort Augustus Select dates ◆ Select guests
Search
2
0
1

The Lovat, Loch Ness

Historic Hotels
Industrial & Imperial Era
4-Star
Loch Ness, Fort Augustus Town Center, Fort Augustus, United Kingdom, PH32 4DU
Hotel image
Show all photos
Hotel image
Hotel image
$226.00 /night for 2 adults View Deal

Highlights

The hotel was built on the site an 18th-century Hanoverian fort, and features the remnants of the fort's curtain wall

Popular Amenities

  • Garden
  • Bar
  • English
View All

Overview

The Lovat Loch Ness is a hotel that embraces and integrates the rugged yet majestic character the Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness. Built in 1869, it blends its historic roots with contemporary functionality, offering a lovely and cozy stay experience. It was originally a 19th-century station inn, and remains a well-preserved example of local heritage. Guests will sleep in individually designed rooms that combine historic and modern features. Dining is led by chef-and-owner Sean Kelly, presenting menus that embody local flavors and traditions. Adventures and experiences are plentiful, as the hotel has easy access to various landmarks and destinations.

Superb 9.2
11 reviews
map Loch Ness, Fort Augustus Town Center, Fort Augustus, United Kingdom, PH32 4DU
View in map

Local Info

Loch Ness
(700 m)
Eilean Donan Castle
(79.0 km)
Glenfinnan Viaduct
(72.2 km)
Nearest Airport
(69.0 km)
Nearest Transport Terminal
(500 m)
View All

Amenities

Popular Amenities

  • Garden
  • Bar
  • English

The Lovat was first established in 1869 as a simple station inn on the shores of Loch Ness, up in the Scottish Highlands. The inn and its owners primarily served travelers from or visiting Fort Augustus. The building itself stands on land with a much older story; the grounds were once the site of Kilwhimen Barracks, a Hanoverian fort built in 1718 after the Jacobite rising of 1715. Remnants of the original fort’s west curtain wall remain on the hotel grounds today, giving guests a glimpse into the turbulent military history of the region.

With the construction of the Fort Augustus Railway in 1903, the inn grew and was renamed The Lovat Arms & Station Hotel. It became a key stopover for railway travelers exploring the Highlands. When passenger rail service ended in 1911, the hotel dropped Station from its name and became known simply as The Lovat.

In modern times, The Lovat has been operated by David, Geraldine, and Caroline Gregory since 2005. They bought and extensively upgraded the property, rechristening it The Lovat Loch Ness. Later, head chef Sean Kelly, who joined the kitchen in 2011 and married Caroline in 2015, became co‑owner, and the couple continues to run the hotel today.

Hotel image
Lovat's lovely exteriors Agoda

Design and Architecture

The Lovat Loch Ness is proud of its heritage as a historic inn that blends historical charms with contemporary comforts. Although built on the site of the former Kilwhimen Barracks, the building is its own structure and dates all the way back to 1869. It retains many elements of its original architecture, with careful renovations preserving classic features. The result is a warm and authentic atmosphere that hearkens back to the 19th century.

For its rooms, the inn presents a thoughtful balance between standardized comforts and individual expression. Each bedroom is uniquely decorated with modern furnishings, amenities, and playful ornaments and fixtures that evoke nostalgia and curiosity. Large windows are positioned with seating areas, framing lovely views of Loch Ness and the Highland countryside. For the public spaces and dining areas, the design blends elegant contemporary touches with the inn's rustic charm. Soft lighting and natural materials come together to create an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and socializing.

Hotel image
Classic aspects of the house Agoda
Hotel image
Bask in the cozy ambiance Agoda

Dining

Owner and Head Chef Sean Kelly leads the kitchens and formulates the menus for The Lovat. He and his culinary team put a focus on modern Scottish cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. His menus highlight seasonal produce and traditional Highland flavors, often with creative twists that preserve heritage while offering something new.

Station Road Restaurant

As the main dining venue of The Lovat Loch Ness, Station Road Restaurant offers a refined yet relaxed setting. Guests can enjoy a la carte dishes or thoughtful tasting menus inspired by the Highlands. The restaurant emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients and seasonal menus, all presented in a contemporary Scottish dining experience.

Tuesday to Saturday: 6:30 pm

Breakfast

Start your day with delectable Scottish staples and local delicacies. Aside from familiar continental fare, treat your palate to porridge infused with honey and berries, mushrooms and sourdough bread, and eggs Hebridean.

Dining
Amazing Scottish gourmet awaits at the Station Road Restaurant Agoda

The Waypoint Bar

This bar offers a casual yet vibrant atmosphere, accentuated by the quirky, Highland-inspired interior design. Check out their menu, which features an extensive range of whiskies, gins, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages. Many of their mixes come infused with seasonal herbs from the hotel’s own garden, giving it a unique Lovat twist. Guests can relax indoors or enjoy drinks outdoors while taking in the surrounding scenery. Bring your furry friend along as dogs are welcome in the bar area.

Tuesday - Saturday: 4 pm onwards

Afternoon Tea

Join the wonderful Afternoon Tea service at The Lovat for a relaxing time sipping tea blends and nibbling tasty treats. Sit by the fire during chilly days, or bask in the sun when the weather is clear. Accompanying your beverage are freshly baked breads, pastries, and cakes, showing you why this tradition is so beloved in Britain.

Wednesday - Saturday: 1 pm - 2 pm

Hotel image
Grab a drink at The Waypoint Bar Agoda

Destination Wedding

The Lovat Loch Ness offers a romantic Highland setting for destination weddings and events, including intimate elopements to large-scale celebrations. For a dramatic ceremony, couples can exchange vows against the backdrop of Loch Ness itself. Other venues include the hotel’s elegant interiors or its landscaped gardens, creating a picturesque and memorable ceremony. Venues are mostly flexible, allowing for both indoor and outdoor celebrations, and even have allowances for marquees or gazebos for added versatility.

The Lovat team is well experienced in making customized weddings, setting up various themes such as classic Highland romance, Alice in Wonderland parties, or 1920s-themed galas. The team and the hotel's partners will also take care of the decor, layout, and ambiance to match your vision.

Book Venue

Events and Experiences

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

At The Lovat Loch Ness, travelers will find a wide variety of outdoor adventures set against the stunning backdrop of the Scottish Highlands. The hotel emphasizes creating memorable, personalized experiences, whether it’s a leisurely stroll along the loch, exciting outdoor adventures, or visiting historical sites and discovering the rich heritage of Scotland.

Guests can explore the scenic Caledonian Canal, hike through nearby hills, and visit iconic landmarks including Eilean Donan Castle and the Glenfinnan Viaduct. For those seeking adventure, there's also a wide range of activities to choose from. Go swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding on Loch Ness, or cycling, hiking, and taking guided walking tours around the towns and villages.

Events and Experiences
The Glenfinnan Viaduct Nono vlf

Other Celebrations

You'll find versatile private event services at The Lovat Loch Ness, providing you scenic Highland locations for your gathering. They handle all sorts of events, from family reunions, birthdays and anniversaries, to themed parties. A dedicated events team will support you and assist in planning and coordination.

Couples and hosts can book exclusive use of the entire hotel, restaurant, and grounds, giving their event a private, immersive atmosphere in one of Scotland’s most iconic settings. Likewise, for corporate and business events, The Lovat can host meetings, retreats, and professional functions. The hotel’s facilities and exclusive‑use packages can be adjusted for corporate gatherings, including team building and seasonal retreats.

Book Venue
Hotel image
The spacious grounds can be prepared for private events Agoda

Sustainability

The owners and staff of The Lovat Loch Ness embrace a deeply eco-conscious approach to their operations and have been working hard toward their sustainability goals. From the outset, the hotel has prioritized treading lightly on the environment, aligning all operations with the natural rhythms and seasonal changes.

The Gregory family, who took over the hotel in 2005, implemented environmentally friendly practices long before sustainability became mainstream. Their early initiatives included the installation of a biomass wood chip boiler in 2006. They also created the Lovat Grove, where guests can contribute by donating trees through the charity Trees for Life. When it comes to the hotel’s food practices, much of the produce served is grown in the hotel’s kitchen garden, foraged from local hedgerows, or sourced from trusted regional partners.


Local Info

Loch Ness

700 m

Beautiful and iconic lake known for its folk stories, particularly of the Loch Ness Monster. (9-minute walk)

Eilean Donan Castle

79.0 km

Stunning restored castle from the 13th century, situated on an island between three large lochs. (65-minute drive)

Glenfinnan Viaduct

72.2 km

Picturesque railway bridge used by the Jacobite Steam Train, made famous by its beautiful landscape, and was used for films like the Harry Potter movie series. (69-minute drive)

Nearest Airport

69.0 km

Inverness Airport (INV) is the closest international airport to The Lovat Loch Ness, 72 minutes away from the hotel.

Nearest Transport Terminal

500 m

The nearest transport terminal is the Fort Augustus Tourist Information Center bus stop, just a 6-minute walk from The Lovat Loch Ness.

Frequently Asked Questions

You Might Also Like

Coul House Hotel
31 km from airport This is a straight-line distance from Inverness Airport. Actual travel distance may vary.

Coul House Hotel

Manors, Boutique Hotels Manors emerged between the 9th and 15th centuries, tied to the manorial feudal system of medieval society in Europe. These properties have since turned into elegant country houses while retaining parts of their original estates and offering a glimpse into their illustrious past. Explore our curated list of historic manor stays for an unforgettable holiday! 
4-Star 9.3
Industrial & Imperial Era Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Industrial & Imperial Era. Click to know more about this period.
Contin, IV14 9ES Contin, United Kingdom
$214.00 total
Check Availability
Tulloch Castle Hotel
23 km from airport This is a straight-line distance from Inverness Airport. Actual travel distance may vary.

Tulloch Castle Hotel

Castles Once home to kings and knights, castles were fortified estates with towering walls. Today, many historic castles have been transformed into heritage stays, offering guests a taste of medieval grandeur. Some castle hotels in Ireland, the UK, and Germany also serve as wedding venues. If you're a history buff, explore our list of the most breathtaking heritage castle hotels. 
4-Star 8.6
High Medieval to Renaissance Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to High Medieval to Renaissance. Click to know more about this period.
35 Tulloch Square, Dingwall, Dingwall, United Kingdom, IV15 9UA
$105.00 total
Check Availability
Dornoch Castle Hotel
1 km from airport This is a straight-line distance from Dornoch. Actual travel distance may vary.

Dornoch Castle Hotel

Castles Once home to kings and knights, castles were fortified estates with towering walls. Today, many historic castles have been transformed into heritage stays, offering guests a taste of medieval grandeur. Some castle hotels in Ireland, the UK, and Germany also serve as wedding venues. If you're a history buff, explore our list of the most breathtaking heritage castle hotels. 
3-Star 8.3
High Medieval to Renaissance Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to High Medieval to Renaissance. Click to know more about this period.
Castle Street, IV25 3SD Dornoch, United Kingdom
$221.00 total
Check Availability
Inverlochy Castle Hotel
47 km from airport This is a straight-line distance from Oban Airport. Actual travel distance may vary.

Inverlochy Castle Hotel

Castles Once home to kings and knights, castles were fortified estates with towering walls. Today, many historic castles have been transformed into heritage stays, offering guests a taste of medieval grandeur. Some castle hotels in Ireland, the UK, and Germany also serve as wedding venues. If you're a history buff, explore our list of the most breathtaking heritage castle hotels. 
5-Star 8.7
Industrial & Imperial Era Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Industrial & Imperial Era. Click to know more about this period.
Torlundy, Torlundy, Fort William, United Kingdom, PH33 6SN
$223.00 total
Check Availability
Glencoe House
31 km from airport This is a straight-line distance from Oban Airport. Actual travel distance may vary.

Glencoe House

Boutique Hotels Although smaller that most mainstream and chain hotels, boutique hotels offer standout touches like eye-catching decor, unique experiences, and personalized services. Many heritage properties are given a makeover to turn into charming boutique hotels. If you want a one-of-a-kind stay, check out our curated list of heritage boutique hotels! 
5-Star 9.7
Industrial & Imperial Era Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Industrial & Imperial Era. Click to know more about this period.
Glencoe, PH49 4HT Glencoe, United Kingdom
$990.00 total
Check Availability
Glenfinnan House Hotel
45 km from airport This is a straight-line distance from Oban Airport. Actual travel distance may vary.

Glenfinnan House Hotel

Boutique Hotels Although smaller that most mainstream and chain hotels, boutique hotels offer standout touches like eye-catching decor, unique experiences, and personalized services. Many heritage properties are given a makeover to turn into charming boutique hotels. If you want a one-of-a-kind stay, check out our curated list of heritage boutique hotels! 
4-Star 8.6
Early Modern & Colonial Expansion Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Early Modern & Colonial Expansion. Click to know more about this period.
Glenfinnan Pier Road, PH37 4LT Glenfinnan, United Kingdom
$225.00 total
Check Availability
Kincraig Castle Hotel
20 km from airport This is a straight-line distance from Dornoch. Actual travel distance may vary.

Kincraig Castle Hotel

Castles Once home to kings and knights, castles were fortified estates with towering walls. Today, many historic castles have been transformed into heritage stays, offering guests a taste of medieval grandeur. Some castle hotels in Ireland, the UK, and Germany also serve as wedding venues. If you're a history buff, explore our list of the most breathtaking heritage castle hotels. 
4-Star 8.3
Early Modern & Colonial Expansion Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Early Modern & Colonial Expansion. Click to know more about this period.
Invergordon, Ross-Shire, Invergordon, Invergordon, United Kingdom, IV18 0LF
$101.00 total
Check Availability
Kingsmills Hotel
11 km from airport This is a straight-line distance from Inverness Airport. Actual travel distance may vary.

Kingsmills Hotel

Historic Hotels Recognized for their venerable age and for being steeped in history, heritage hotels are seen as icons in their locality. They are often emblematic of certain time periods due to the architecture, or for hosting significant events. They are differentiated further from modern hotels by providing meaningful cultural experiences. Take a look at our recommendations!
4-Star 8.8
Early Modern & Colonial Expansion Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Early Modern & Colonial Expansion. Click to know more about this period.
Culcabock Road, Inverness City Center, Inverness, United Kingdom, IV2 3LP
$79.00 total
Check Availability
Ness Walk
Featured
13 km from airport This is a straight-line distance from Inverness Airport. Actual travel distance may vary.

Ness Walk

Boutique Hotels Although smaller that most mainstream and chain hotels, boutique hotels offer standout touches like eye-catching decor, unique experiences, and personalized services. Many heritage properties are given a makeover to turn into charming boutique hotels. If you want a one-of-a-kind stay, check out our curated list of heritage boutique hotels! 
5-Star 9.3
Early Modern & Colonial Expansion Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to Early Modern & Colonial Expansion. Click to know more about this period.
12 Ness Walk, Dalneigh, Inverness, United Kingdom, IV3 5SQ
$210.00 total
Check Availability
Mingary Castle
Featured
27 km from airport This is a straight-line distance from Mull. Actual travel distance may vary.

Mingary Castle

Castles Once home to kings and knights, castles were fortified estates with towering walls. Today, many historic castles have been transformed into heritage stays, offering guests a taste of medieval grandeur. Some castle hotels in Ireland, the UK, and Germany also serve as wedding venues. If you're a history buff, explore our list of the most breathtaking heritage castle hotels. 
4-Star 9.7
High Medieval to Renaissance Every historic hotel tells a unique tale of its time. From Renaissance’s Gothic cathedrals to Japanese simplicity, each location reflects the culture, way of life, and architectural style of its era. This property belongs to High Medieval to Renaissance. Click to know more about this period.
Kilchoan, Acharacle, Kilchoan, Kilchoan, United Kingdom, PH36 4LH
$499.00 total
Check Availability

Customer Reviews

Location

Very good location, great room and very helpful staff.

Amenities

The room was large, the bed so comfortable and the food delicious.

Dining

Amazing food.