September 2025 by Jacky Lloyd-Jones
Very impressive unique structure. Interesting tour sailing into the wheel, being lifted to the higher level, cruising through a tunnel that goes under a Roman fort and back again. Visitor centre good. It was clean, well organised and the cafe had tasty food and various drinks. A very enjoyable experience.
August 2025 by David Tully
There are mixed reviews on here about the Ballygrant Inn. The gist seemed to be that food and whisky are good, but service could be poor. We had travelled for most of the day and just wanted some food and a drink locally, so we took our chances.
Alas, our luck was not in.
Food wasn?t possible as they were too busy. These things happen. There were around 16 people waiting to be fed, but there was no suggestion that they might be able to squeeze us in in an hour or so. The nearest alternative was 3 miles away.
We had been sent round the back of the building after we were told that we couldn?t have food. A party of twelve were having their order taken by the barman who had sent us the long way round. We stood idly at the bar, wondering if we would ever be acknowledged. We silently seethed that we had been stupid enough to come here and had felt most unwelcome. We settled for two pints and a packet of salted peanuts (the vegetarian dish of the day) but soon calmed down.
There were loads of awards on the wall for their whisky collection. Over a thousand whiskies is mighty impressive. If, however, Egon Ronay or the Michelin Man were to turn up with their clipboard, they would count the whiskies and swoon. If they were to make the mistake of asking if they could have a chilli con carne with basmati rice and salad, they would be advised that they did not have a reservation. So, no.
The rest of the island provides a masterclass in customer service, whether it is the slick corporate spiel of the distillery greeters, the natural generosity of the host of our B&B, or the enthusiastic welcome we received from the owner of a hotel in Bowmore.
Perhaps, that is just the Ballygrant unique selling point: take it or leave it. Interesting marketing technique.
As we were leaving after 70 minutes (to scavenge a few biscuits from the boot of our car) the party of 12 were only just being served their meals. At least we were not alone in our misery.
July 2025 by steven silverman
I can't rate the rooms as we were there for the restaurant only. The food was nicely done and tasty but mine host, oh dear, like a fish out of water with anyone other than the locals. Surely the awards on the wall were achieved with someone else working front of house. I squirmed as I watched him struggle to sell a dram to an Italian guy. Listen, I work in retail, I know you can't be happy all the time but it's like being on stage. You apply the greasepaint and you smile for your audience, it's called professionalism.
July 2025 by Bob Jonas
Had a great meal at the Ballygrant Inn.
July 2025 by L K
Some of the reviews on google nearly put me off bringing my wife and parents here but I?m very glad we came. Someone else had recommended this place so I decided to take their word for it.
The food was absolutely excellent and the service was top notch. I would highly recommend the Pork in Whisky, Wholegrain Mustard and Cream sauce. My wife had the Beef and Orange Casserole and she loved it.
Huge selection of Whisky?s which I didn?t have a chance to enjoy due to having to drive. Don?t let the negative reviews put you off, this place is well worth a visit and we will be returning.
July 2025 by Phil McLeod
Rooms and breakfast were fine, but there was no hospitality. The gentleman who seemed to be in charge for the three nights we were there, had an unsmiling, almost surly manner. So we felt disinclined to ask for any local tourist information, and none was offered. We ate an evening meal in the bar on arrival, and it was just average. On exploring Islay, we found what looked like better options with lovely, engaging people, as we?ve come to expect from the Scots.
June 2025 by Jo Ve
Went to eat and have some drinks. Were ignored for most of the evening. Food was more than two ours in preparation time (for the starter), no water offered. Horrific service. On the positive side: nice collection of drinks on offer but the abysmal service killed the experience
June 2025 by Maurice Niezen
After some biking and hiking we tried to get a dinner. Unfortunately it was booked full.
April 2025 by Eddie Ostle
Fantastic place to go for food, especially on Thursday night which is pint and curry night great range of curries, beautiful tasting, plus if you like whisky this is the place to visit 10/10.
April 2025 by Lui42
One of the best pub on Islay with a huge selection of Islay whiskies.
Pub kitchen available.
March 2025 by gavin mackie
Food, drink and beds 10/10
November 2024 by Marcus Conway
Superb. Great food.. Great beer. Amazing whisky. Thanks ?
November 2024 by Jim Ferguson
Excellent
October 2024 by Astrid Besnard
We had a very pleasant stay, the place is well maintained and friendly. The cuisine is generous and the choice of whiskey is? incomparable!
October 2024 by Mark Oldbury
Thursday Curry night in the bar. Great food great whisky and great atmosphere.
