The Haven Hotel, Plockton

The word "hotel" has been erased from the sign above the door, and this establishment now appears to provide accommodation only.

As it’s name suggests, this is very much a bar within a hotel, but is nonetheless open to the public. It’s a small, single room affair with blue patterned carpet, yellow painted walls and red woodwork around the bar with a pair of antlers mounted up above (apparently the original, Gaelic name of the building was “deer antlers”). A small table in one corner was covered in tourist leaflets, and a number of black and white photos were displayed in an alcove in the opposite corner, along with various plates depicting ships on the wall. There was bench seating around two walls, a couple of tables and some black leather armchairs. A small TV was mounted above the fireplace which looked a little odd, but it was not on when we visited. The barmaid was on another planet entirely, but nonetheless very friendly and helpful. Food was served in the adjacent dining room and was restaurant prices, but in spite of that we had a relaxed and enjoyable meal. The kitchen could perhaps do with being a bit better organised however, as several dishes had run out or changed – I appreciate certain fresh produce will always run out if demand exceeds expectations, but running out of chutney for the cheese board smacks of carelessness to me. There were no real ales on tap unfortunately, just keg Ember 80/. No draught ciders either, although I was delighted to find a bottle of Thistly Cross which is apparently Scotland’s only cider. There were also 50+ whiskies available, if that’s your thing.