Ullapool Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Ullapool with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink, where to stay, and transportation options.


Ullapool is a hidden gem in the Scottish Highlands, offering stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and a vibrant local culture. Nestled on the shores of Loch Broom, this picturesque fishing village attracts visitors from all over the world with its quaint charm, welcoming people, and endless outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Ullapool has something to offer for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ve compiled a list of must-visit places, best things to do, food and drink scene, transportation options, and much more to help you plan your trip to Ullapool.

Introduction to Ullapool

Ullapool is a small town on the west coast of Scotland. It was founded in 1788 as a herring port, and over the years, it has grown into a popular tourist destination. The town has a population of around 1,500 people, who are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. Ullapool is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, lochs, and forests, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The town also has a rich history, which is reflected in its museums, historical sites, and local culture.

List of Places to Visit in Ullapool

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Ullapool Museum: Learn about the town’s rich history and culture through exhibits, artefacts, and interactive displays.
  2. Rhue Lighthouse: A beautiful lighthouse located on the outskirts of Ullapool, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  3. Leckmelm Gardens: A beautiful Victorian garden with a wide variety of plant species, including rhododendrons, azaleas, and magnolias.
  4. The Ceilidh Place: A cultural hub, featuring a bar, restaurant, bookshop, and live music venue.
  5. Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve: A geological wonder, where you can learn about the formation of the landscape and the history of the area.

Natural Attractions of Ullapool: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Stac Pollaidh: This iconic mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts.
  2. Corrieshalloch Gorge: A deep, narrow canyon with waterfalls cascading down its sides.
  3. Summer Isles: A group of small islands off the coast of Ullapool, offering stunning views of the mountains and sea.
  4. Inverpolly Nature Reserve: A stunning landscape of low-level hills and lochs, perfect for hiking and photography.
  5. Loch Broom: A beautiful loch surrounded by mountains, perfect for fishing, boating, and wildlife watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ullapool

  1. Beinn Dearg: A challenging hike to the summit of Beinn Dearg, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  2. Fisherfield Forest: A remote wilderness area with stunning mountain scenery, best explored by hiking or biking.
  3. The Fannichs: A group of mountains with several hiking trails, including the Fannichs Ridge Traverse.
  4. Coigach: A coastal trail with stunning views of the Summer Isles and the surrounding countryside.
  5. An Teallach: A challenging mountain with several hiking trails, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Ullapool: Activities and Tours

  1. Sea kayaking: Explore the west coast of Scotland by sea kayak, with tours available from Ullapool.
  2. Fishing: Loch Broom offers excellent fishing opportunities for salmon, trout, and sea trout.
  3. Wildlife watching: Ullapool is home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, seals, deer, and eagles.
  4. Golfing: Ullapool has a 9-hole golf course with stunning views of Loch Broom.
  5. Sailing: Take a sailing tour of Loch Broom and the surrounding countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ullapool

Day Activities
1 Visit Ullapool Museum, explore the town’s shops and restaurants
2 Hike Stac Pollaidh or Beinn Dearg
3 Sea kayaking tour of the west coast
4 Fishing on Loch Broom
5 Visit Corrieshalloch Gorge and Leckmelm Gardens
6 Hiking or biking in Fisherfield Forest
7 Day trip to the Summer Isles and Inverpolly Nature Reserve

Food and Drink Scene of Ullapool

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Cullen skink: A hearty soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions.
  2. Haggis: A Scottish classic made with sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with oats and spices.
  3. Seafood platter: Fresh seafood from Loch Broom, including lobster, crab, and mussels.
  4. Highland lamb: Locally sourced lamb, slow-roasted with herbs and vegetables.
  5. Cranachan: A dessert made with raspberries, cream, honey, and oats.

Local Beverages

  1. Whisky: Scotland’s national drink, with several distilleries located near Ullapool.
  2. Real ale: Several local breweries produce a range of traditional Scottish ales.
  3. Cider: Locally made from Highland apples and pears.
  4. Gin: Several distilleries produce small-batch gin, infused with local botanicals.
  5. Tea: Hebridean Tea Company products a range of organic, fair-trade tea blends, perfect for a mid-day break.

Where to Stay in Ullapool: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. The Argyll Hotel: A traditional Scottish hotel with stunning views of Loch Broom.
  2. The Ceilidh Place: A unique hotel, featuring a bar, restaurant, bookshop, and live music venue.
  3. Broomview Cottage: A beautiful self-catering cottage with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  4. Morefield Motel: A modern, cost-effective option for travellers visiting Ullapool on a budget.
  5. The Millcroft Hotel: A traditional Scottish hotel, located on the edge of the town, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

What to Buy in Ullapool: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Harris Tweed: Locally made tweed fabric, which is used to produce a range of products, including jackets, hats, and bags.
  2. Pottery: Several local potters produce unique, handmade ceramics, perfect for gifts.
  3. Smoked salmon: Loch Broom is known for its high-quality salmon, which is smoked locally.
  4. Artwork: Several local artists produce original paintings and prints of the surrounding landscape.
  5. Whisky: Several distilleries produce a range of whiskies, perfect for bringing home as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Ullapool

Ullapool has a rich cultural heritage, with a strong tradition of music, storytelling, and art. The town hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including the Ullapool Book Festival, the Ullapool Guitar Festival, and the Ullapool Dance Festival. The locals are known for their warm hospitality, and visitors are encouraged to engage with the community and learn more about the local culture.

Best Time to Visit Ullapool

Ullapool is a year-round destination, with each season offering a unique experience. The summer months (June-August) are the busiest, with longer days, warmer temperatures, and several cultural events. The winter months (December-February) are quieter, with shorter days, colder temperatures, and a peaceful atmosphere. However, the winter months offer excellent opportunities for winter sports, including skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ullapool

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Engage with the local community.
  • Be mindful of the environment.
  • Enjoy the natural beauty of Ullapool.
  • Try the local food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Disrupt the local wildlife.
  • Ignore safety advice.
  • Be disrespectful towards the locals.
  • Refuse to try local food and drink.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ullapool

Ullapool is generally a safe destination, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, visitors are advised to take care when participating in outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking. Always follow safety instructions and wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

Health in Ullapool

Ullapool has a small medical centre, which provides basic healthcare services. Visitors with pre-existing health conditions are advised to consult their healthcare provider before travelling to Ullapool. The town has clean drinking water, and visitors are advised to stay hydrated, especially when participating in outdoor activities.

Getting to Ullapool: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ullapool

The nearest airport to Ullapool is Inverness Airport, which is approximately 80 miles away. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or hire a car to reach Ullapool.

Bus Stations Near Ullapool

Ullapool has a bus station, which is served by several local and regional bus services. The town is also a stop on the North Coast 500, a popular tourist route in northern Scotland.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Ullapool by car, bike, or foot, with several routes leading to the town from nearby destinations.

How to Get Around in Ullapool

Ullapool is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. Visitors can also hire bikes or take taxis to explore the town and the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Ullapool: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Inverness: The capital of the Scottish Highlands, offering a range of cultural and historical attractions, including Inverness Castle and the Culloden Battlefield.
  2. Isle of Skye: A beautiful island with dramatic landscapes and stunning scenery, located less than 100 miles from Ullapool.
  3. John O’ Groats: The northernmost point of mainland Scotland, offering stunning views of the North Sea and the surrounding countryside.
  4. Fort William: A picturesque town located at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK.
  5. Orkney Islands: A remote archipelago located off the coast of Scotland, offering a unique blend of history and natural beauty.

Conclusion

Ullapool is a hidden gem in the Scottish Highlands, offering stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and a vibrant local culture. With its friendly locals, quaint charm, and endless outdoor adventures, it’s the perfect destination for travellers looking to experience the best of Scotland. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to Ullapool with confidence, knowing that you won’t miss a thing. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Ullapool!

Ullapool and Loch Broom Ullapool and Loch Broom Ullapool seafront Ullapool seafront Town clock Town clock