Ardbeg House, the recently opened whisky-focused boutique hotel on the island of Islay, has been named Best Place to Stay in the UK and Scotland for 2026 by The Times and The Sunday Times.
Located in the coastal village of Port Ellen, just a short walk from the legendary Ardbeg Distillery, the boutique hotel secured the overall top position in the publications’ prestigious list of the 50 Best Places to Stay across the UK and Scotland — only six months after opening.
Judges described the property as “a whisky wonderland”, praising its playful, maximalist interiors and welcoming bar stocked with exceptional whisky while still remaining accessible for locals.
The rooms and suites also received strong recognition, contributing to an impressive 9/10 rating. Reviewers highlighted the hotel’s “eye-popping interiors” and “playful, personality-packed” guest rooms.
Ardbeg House officially opened its doors in September 2025 and was created in collaboration with the renowned design firm Russell Sage Studio. The project was designed to celebrate the culture, craft and creative spirit of Islay, the island widely known as one of the world’s most important whisky regions.
The boutique property offers 12 individually designed rooms, each featuring handcrafted elements created by more than 20 artisans from Scotland and Islay. The design blends Ardbeg’s bold smoky identity with the warmth and creativity of the local community.
According to Ellie Goss, Communications and Hospitality Director at Ardbeg, the recognition marks an important milestone for the project.
“We’re incredibly honoured to top such a prestigious list, especially so quickly after the opening of Ardbeg House,” she said.
“Every element of the luxury hotel has been crafted to immerse visitors to the island and its community in local stories and Ardbeggian rituals, while also offering the chance to experience some very exclusive whiskies.
“This recognition marks a major milestone for Ardbeg House, cementing its place as one of the most exciting new destinations in the UK.”
For whisky enthusiasts and travellers alike, Ardbeg House now stands as one of the most distinctive destinations on Islay, combining world-class whisky heritage with a unique hospitality experience.
