Dust off your walking boots

The iconic Kingshouse Hotel in Glencoe re-opened today - Friday 8th February. 

Fergus Ewing MSP, Rural Economy Secretary and Member of the Scottish Parliament for Inverness and Nairn, will today officially re-open Kingshouse Hotel in Glencoe, after almost a year spent implementing a £12 million redevelopment project.

The Kingshouse Hotel, which can trace its history back to the 17thC, has been sensitively expanded to offer 57 bedrooms, plus a 32 bed bunkhouse, a new restaurant, bar and pub, each serving great food. The extended hotel has brought 54 new jobs to the area and, as a year-long venue, delivers a significant boost to local tourism all year round.

Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing said, 

“The Kingshouse has provided a vital place of respite for drovers, walkers, skiers, climbers and general visitors to Glencoe for centuries, so I am very honoured to play a small part in helping to launch the next chapter in this iconic building’s history. These new, enhanced facilities will provide much-needed economic stability for the area, by creating jobs and revenue for many years to come.”

Graeme Ferguson of Bidwells, who managed the redevelopment project, adds, 

“The extent of investment by the owners meant we were able to utilise sustainable technology and design to ensure Kingshouse enhances facilities and employment in this area, while making as little impact on the natural environment as possible.”

Kingshouse will be managed through Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels which itself has been a family-run business for 150 years. Third generation owner, Stephen Leckie said, 

“Our focus will be to provide continuity for all the things which make Kingshouse unique, while ensuring its longevity for another century and more.

“Our aim is to create a welcoming destination for all. By improving facilities for serious walkers as well as recreational tourists, we intend to make Kingshouse Hotel a destination for all year round, including hosting events and weddings amongst some of the most dramatic scenery in Scotland.”

Within the development, a modern 32 bed bunkhouse has been retained for those seeking basic overnight accommodation, and new opportunities to eat, drink and relax have been added. The famous “Climbers Bar” has been renamed “The Way Inn” and retains its popular pub feel, while a new restaurant will serve traditional favourites, using local produce wherever possible.

General Manager, Craig Haddow adds, 

“While the revamp allows us to serve a broader audience and cater for longer stays than the old hotel, I can’t wait to welcome back walkers and travellers who already love the area with a passion. I hope we can also encourage a new generation of visitors to fall in love with Glencoe and Kingshouse, through the warmth of the hospitality that my team and I are committed to offering.”

Lesley Benfield, Chief Executive of Lochaber Chamber of Commerce, which is the destination management organisation for Lochaber, added,

“Kingshouse Hotel will deliver a memorable experience in a truly stunning location. Situated at the gateway to the ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK’, this is a significant contribution to the creation of jobs and year round economic benefits in one of Scotland’s most remote and iconic locations.”

The Kingshouse Hotel re-opens on Friday 8^th February 2019. www.kingshousehotel.co.uk

For further media information, please contact Marjorie Calder on 07739 636609 or email marjorie@oceanblue-consulting.com