Ullapool's 54–bedroom Royal Hotel sold to local B&B owner amid plans to drive the Wester Ross business 'to new highs'

A WELL-KNOWN Highland hotel has changed hands for an undisclosed sum amid hopes its new owner will "drive the business to new highs".

Ullapool's 54–bedroom Royal Hotel has been sold to the owner of Harbour House B&B in the village.

Property firm Graham and Sibbald said it was delighted to announce the sale of the hotel which is located on Garve Road, close to the entrance to Ullapool.

The hotel is arranged over two principal floors with balconies on the first floor around the front of the property overlooking the harbour.

The hotel also provides a variety of accommodation, including a restaurant, public bar and “The Ballroom” – including a four–bedroom manager’s flat.

The property was sold to Alan MacLaurin, owner of Harbour House B&B, situated approximately 320 metres from the Royal Hotel.

Peter Seymour, a director with Graham and Sibbald, said: "This is one of a number of hotel sales we have completed under a confidential marketing campaign recently. We are limited to what we can say, and we are not at liberty to state the price. But I understand the new owners intend to improve the hotel, focussing on the tourist market in the future.

"The buyers are a local operator who we know intend to invest in the hotel and drive the business to new highs. We wish them all the best with their excellent purchase. The deal was financed by the Royal Bank of Scotland, which marks a return to the deal market for mainstream lenders."

The hotel, originally a coaching inn, is regarded by some as one of the premier luxury hotels in the Scottish Highlands. Dating back to the 1800s, this hotel is believed by some to be the oldest in Ullapool.

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