Mingary Castle

Sometimes the best culinary experiences are serendipitous. Lost and driving blindly around the unfamiliar, pitch black wilderness of the Ardnamurchan Estate we came across a mediaeval Castle on the Estate lands. It turned out to be a bijou hotel and restaurant. Exhausted and irritable we went in to ask directions and were met with gracious and helpful staff that had us heading in the right direction in minutes. Being singularly unimpressed with our holiday cottage down the road we decided that the ‘restaurant with rooms’ that was Mingary Castle looked altogether more inviting, so we decided to book dinner for the Sunday evening. This impromptu decision turned out to be inspired.

The entry to Mingary Castle, a C13th Keep, is imposing yet leads onto a pleasant courtyard with a modest doorway opening into a warm and homely yet elegantly furnished oak-panelled restaurant. We were welcomed bymaitre D’ Jessica Thompson, co-patron with her partner, chef Colin Nicholson. Thompson, has a varied and rich experience including as restaurant manager at the Roux’s Inverlochy Castle where Nicholson was also head chef. Hailing with her partner from North Uist she brings bucketloads of island charm and warmth. Attentive without being overbearing she ran us through the 8-course tasting menu, which draws its inspiration from the local surroundings and includes wonderful foraged fare.

The amuse bouches included crab, pork and a wild garlic panisse, which was exceptional. Homemade bread with three whipped butters was followed by Jersey Royals with truffle custard, a dish that was was creamy yet subtle. The Mull scallop ceviche was delicate with an unusual gorse dressing and the elegant centrepiece, St. Bride’s chicken with wild garlic, was delicious. The braised leg was bursting with flavour and the madeira jus rich and deeply flavoured. Every course had charm and elegance, and at £80 for the full billing a meal here represents good value. The wine list was made for food and was reasonably priced too.

Thompson and Nicholson are putting together a dining and accommodation experience that should see Mingary Castle become a serious destination for food lovers committed to sustainability, local produce and a comely experience.

Perched dramatically on the rugged Ardnamurchan Peninsula, Mingary Castle is a striking 13th-century fortress steeped in Scottish history. Overlooking the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, the castle was meticulously restored in 2016 and reimagined as an award-winning fine dining restaurant with rooms in 2021. Surrounded by unspoiled landscapes and panoramic views, Mingary Castle offers a luxurious retreat that seamlessly combines its medieval grandeur with contemporary comfort.

Recognised as one of Scotland’s finest dining destinations, the castle boasts accolades such as the UK’s Best Restaurant with Rooms thanks to the AA guide and has three AA Rosettes for its exceptional culinary excellence. At the heart of Mingary’s restaurant is the talented Chef Patron, Colin Nicholson. With a passion for local, seasonal, and foraged ingredients, Colin has dedicated himself to showcasing the West Coast of Scotland’s natural larder. Drawing on experience gained from working in top kitchens across the globe, Colin curates daily-changing menus that blend classical techniques with a modern sensibility. Every dish is designed to celebrate the region’s finest produce, sourced from trusted local suppliers such as Tobermory Fish Co. and Great Glen Charcuterie.

The restaurant’s intimate 20-cover dining room provides an elegant setting for a culinary journey like no other. Guests can choose between a five or eight-course tasting menu, thoughtfully crafted to highlight the flavours of the season. A sample menu might begin with a welcoming amuse-bouche, followed by the delicate pairing of hand-dived scallops with Scottish asparagus and roe parfait. For the main course, tender rump of hogget is complemented by braised leg tartlet with wild garlic and anchovy. Desserts offer a refined sweetness, such as a yogurt panna cotta with poached rhubarb and caramelized white chocolate, concluding with a handmade bonbon.

To elevate the dining experience, a complimentary wine pairing is available, featuring both old and new world selections. With its rich history, breath-taking location, and exquisite cuisine, Mingary Castle promises an unforgettable fine dining experience that captures the essence of Scotland’s natural beauty and culinary heritage.