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3-star hotel Check-in 14:00 · Check-out 11:00

No. 1 Charlotte Street

Discover No. 1 Charlotte Street in Port Ellen, Isle of Islay. Enjoy friendly service, comfortable rooms, and an ideal location near ferry terminals and top distilleries. Experience customizable breakfasts, scenic views, and a welcoming atmosphere for all

1 Charlotte St, Port Ellen, Isle of Islay PA42 7DF, United Kingdom View on map
9/10
Exceptional Based on 299 recent guest reviews
Free Wi-Fi Free breakfast Free parking Pet-friendly Kid-friendly
What recent guests emphasize

Comfortable stay with attentive service and convenient location

Guests highlight a welcoming atmosphere, excellent breakfast options, and proximity to the ferry terminal, making it a great base for exploring Islay’s whisky distilleries and coastal views.

Guests often praise

  • Friendly and accommodating staff who are readily available to assist.
  • Breakfast variety with choices ranging from full Scottish to lighter options.
  • Clean, spacious, and comfortable rooms with impressive bay views.
  • Convenient location near the ferry terminal and key local attractions.
  • Atmospheric bars offering local beers and whisky with a welcoming vibe.

Worth knowing

  • No air conditioning or fitness center on site.
  • Parking is free but there is no airport shuttle service.
  • The mattress firmness may not suit all preferences, though generally comfortable.
  • The hotel operates in a historic Victorian building with unfussy décor and no pool amenities.
  • Pet-friendly and kid-friendly, catering to a range of traveler types.

Best for

  • Visitors planning short stays or whisky-focused trips to Islay.
  • Travelers seeking a cozy, no-frills hotel with a social atmosphere.
  • Guests arriving via the Port Ellen ferry looking for quick access.
  • Those who appreciate local pubs and easy access to popular distilleries.
  • Families and pet owners wanting a friendly and accommodating environment.
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About this property

Welcome to No. 1 Charlotte Street

No. 1 Charlotte Street is a hidden gem located in the picturesque town of Port Ellen on the Isle of Islay. With a rating of 4.5 stars, this cozy hotel nestled within a charming 19th-century Victorian building offers guests a welcoming atmosphere and breathtaking views of Kilnaughton Bay.

Guests consistently praise the hotel for its friendly and accommodating staff, who go above and beyond to ensure a comfortable stay. Scott Porter noted the exceptional service, remarking on the staff's willingness to assist at any hour, making visitors feel truly cared for. The rooms are described as comfortable, inviting, and equipped with everything needed for a restful night, although one guest mentioned a preference for a softer mattress. Nevertheless, restful sleep is a common thread in reviews, making it a reliable choice for travelers seeking relaxation.

The highlight of a stay at No. 1 Charlotte Street is undoubtedly the breakfast. Guests appreciate the customizable options—from a full Scottish breakfast to lighter fare—which cater to diverse tastes. László Kocsis specifically mentioned enjoying local favorites like black pudding, adding a genuine touch to the culinary experience. Moreover, the convenience of enjoying takeaway meals in the lounge area enhances the overall cozy feel of the hotel.

Not only does No. 1 Charlotte Street offer comfort and convenience, but its location is ideal for travelers looking to explore Islay's renowned whisky distilleries. Just a short distance from the ferry terminal and a mere few miles from notable attractions like Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg Distilleries, it serves as the perfect base for whisky enthusiasts. Guests can easily indulge in guided tours and tastings while soaking in the heart of Islay's whisky culture.

In addition to an excellent location and a superb breakfast, the hotel provides essential amenities, including free Wi-Fi, complimentary parking, and pet-friendly options. Whether visiting for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, No. 1 Charlotte Street caters to diverse needs while giving a warm, local feel.

In conclusion, No. 1 Charlotte Street stands out as more than just a hotel; it is a sanctuary for those seeking a genuine Islay experience. Its combination of friendly service, delightful breakfasts, and prime location makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this beautiful part of Scotland.

Summary compiled by GoHotelly editors from verified guest reviews, partner descriptions and editorial notes.
Facilities & essentials

What's on-site and what you should know before you arrive

The short version: what's available day-to-day, and the key practical details most travelers search for.

Most popular facilities

Free Wi-Fi
Free breakfast
Free parking
Pet-friendly
Kid-friendly
Bar
Smoke-free

Not available at this property

Pool
Air-conditioned
Airport shuttle
Fitness center
Verified guest reviews

What recent guests are actually saying

Reviews from travelers who stayed here in the last 12 months, grouped to help you spot the pattern quickly.

SP
Scott Porter Jul 07, 2025
10

This review is long overdue, but I loved my stay here. The staff was very friendly and more accommodating than I deserved. Comfortable room, excellent breakfast, beautiful location, and easy access to and from the airport by bus. If I have to find fault, I found the mattress a bit firm, but I slept great anyway. No complaints. I would love to visit Islay again someday and will definitely stay here when I do.

BA
Be Ate Jun 30, 2025
8.0

We stayed here for four nights. A lovely place with super friendly staff. You can always ask questions, no matter what time of day, and you feel truly well looked after. You can choose and put together your own breakfast. We'll definitely be back.

G.
Gingeyy .x Jun 23, 2025
10

Beautiful hotel! Perfect location a couple minutes drive from the ferry terminal. Sophie was super helpful with all of my questions I asked and the breakfast was amazing each morning! Can’t wait to come back again

JW
James Whatley Jun 08, 2025
10

What a fantastic place to stay. Huge love to Allison, Carolyn and Coco who looked after my friend and I on a whisky tasting trip for a long weekend. Never felt more welcomed or looked after at a hotel. Beds were fine (like you'll notice), the beach was gorgeous (pack your swimmers and bold the dip), and the drams and company was stellar. If you are thinking about visiting Islay, then I can't recommend No1 Charlotte enough. We are already planning our return trip. Maybe see you there!

LK
László Kocsis May 10, 2025
10

A cozy hotel, perfectly suitable for a short stay. Comfortable bed, immaculate bathroom. Service is very friendly and helpful. Breakfast is great, should your choice be full Scottish or just toast with jam. (I missed haggis, but black pudding was there for the rescue :) ) You can eat your takeaway lunch in the lounge, which is a nice extra. The pub downstairs is exactly what you expect, local beers and drams are available, patrons are friendly, open for a nice chat with tourists.

AH
Alyssa H Apr 23, 2025
10

What a lovely hotel this is. The location was absolutely IDEAL for us! Just a quick jaunt from the ferry. Not only that, you have the e- bike rental right behind the hotel. The rooms were spacious and spotless. The views were outstanding. We grabbed some pints at the pub next door and walked across the street to the tables. Breakfast was lovely. Many quick options as well as made to order options. I would stay here every single time!

Location & neighborhood

Where you'll find No. 1 Charlotte Street

Isle of Islay, United Kingdom

Set in a 19th-century Victorian building that overlooks Kilnaughton Bay, this cosy hotel is a 5-minute walk from Port Ellen Islay ferry terminal and 3 miles from the ruins of the Dunyvaig Castle.

  • Port Ellen Ferry Terminal 6 min Walk
  • Charlotte Street 2 min Walk
  • Port Ellen Baptist Church 8 min Walk
  • City of Derry Airport 10 hr Car
  • Islay Airport 9 min Car · 14 min Transit
  • Campbeltown Airport 3 hr 19 Car · 4 hr 33 Transit
Things to do nearby

Worth the walk or a quick ride

Curated spots travelers usually pair with a stay in United Kingdom. Distances are rough real-world times, not straight-line.

Lagavulin Distillery 733 reviews

Lagavulin Distillery

Lagavulin, Isle of Islay PA42 7DZ, United Kingdom

4.8 · Distillery
Laphroaig Distillery 630 reviews

Laphroaig Distillery

Laphroaig, Isle of Islay PA42 7DU, United Kingdom

4.8 · Distillery
Ardbeg Distillery 571 reviews

Ardbeg Distillery

Port Ellen, Isle of Islay PA42 7EA, United Kingdom

4.7 · Distillery
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