ROBERT Hicks, Helen Chalmers, and the team at The Dipping Lugger in Ullapool are today celebrating their Five Gold Star standard awarded by AA Hospitality, the highest accolade to be achieved by a restaurant with rooms. It denotes “luxurious accommodation and public areas with a high-quality menu and wine list’.
Dating back to 1789 and overlooking the shores of Loch Broom, The Dipping Lugger was once the parish manse. It was partially rebuilt by Thomas Telford in 1829 and has been lovingly and painstakingly restored by owners Robert and Helen before reopening in September 2021.
The AA inspector’s report said:
“This 18th century former manse has been transformed into a wonderful restaurant with rooms offering the highest levels of service backed up with a stunning dining experience. Thoughtfully equipped luxurious bedrooms cater well for the modern guest whilst the open log fires and drawing room reflects the charm and character of the property and its heritage.”
The Dipping Lugger has been carefully considered to be deserving of this accolade, and it is the second major one they have received this year, also gaining entry to the Michelin Guide. The restaurant is the first of its kind in Scotland to have interiors by renowned designer Eve Cullen-Cornes who specialises in creating memorable dining destinations having worked on The Padstow Townhouse by Paul Ainsworth and Tom Kerridge’s Hand and Flowers.
The kitchen is overseen by head chef David Smith, formerly of Boath House in Nairn with the seven-course dinner menu and four-course lunch menu showcasing local provenance with thought and imagination, General Manager Calum Robertson heads up the front of house team.
Robert and Helen said:
“We’re absolutely delighted with this recognition from the AA. As soon as we saw it, we felt this place could be special and we’re thrilled that the AA agree. There has been a lot of hard work and dedication by the whole team that has got The Dipping Lugger to where it is now, and we’re so proud to be able to provide a wonderful bolthole to match the picturesque location.”
To book call 01854 613344 or visit the website www.thedippinglugger.com
