Uptown Ullapool
Discover the village right at the heart of Highland culture
WITH everything that it has to offer, it’s hard to believe Ullapool in Ross-shire is only technically classed as a village. For such a small place, it really packs in the attractions and whether you are looking for fine dining or pub grub, sea kayaking or a museum tour, Ullapool has it covered.
Diane Rusling is a member of the Welcome Ullapool committee and lauds the village for its natural beauty and abundance of attractions.
“Ullapool is surrounded by stunning mountains,” says Diane, “and the view changes daily. Steeped in history, art and culture, this village is a great place to visit. Walk the shorefront, watching local fishing boats or take a trip around the islands to see an abundance of wildlife from dolphins to eagles.”
The opportunity for outdoor adventures is definitely one of Ullapool’s greatest draws and its choice of walking routes is unrivalled.
One destination not to miss when rambling around the scenic area is Knockan Crag, part of the Northwest Highland Geopark. Just a short trip outside of Ullapool will take you to the start of the trail at The Rock Room.
This is a unique open-sided visitor centre, nestled into the Knockan hillside that guides you through three billion years of geological history. As well as stunning views across Coigach and Assynt, visitors can enjoy the poetry, statues and installations dotted throughout the trails.
For those looking for something a little more laid-back, or just in need of some shelter for a rainy day, Ullapool has a host of attractions for the whole family.
An Talla Solais is a must visit for keen artists and amateurs alike. This arts centre in the heart of Ullapool is a fantastic exhibition space for local artists and runs frequent workshops for all ages. Past events have included a family art workshop to make seaweed out of discarded plastic bags, a series of talks for kids and a Gone To Pot ceramics session. The workshops can be just a day or an afternoon and some run over a few days.
The Ullapool Museum is another gem the village has to offer. Housed in the beautiful Telford Church – sold to the museum trust for just £1 in 1991 – the museum is packed to the rafters with intriguing historical titbits.
Every exhibit comes together to tell the story of the Lochbroom area from the earliest crofts to Ullapool’s role in the First and Second World Wars.
“See an abundance of wildlife from ” dolphins to eagles
The museum is not only a must-see for history buffs, as kids are also well catered for with their own interactive exhibits in the activity area.
If you’re passing through Ullapool on your way to more remote climbs, it is definitely worth stopping for a wee explore. The food and shopping spots in the village are fantastic and really champion the local delicacies and makers.
For a taste of famous west coast flavours, The Seafood Shack is a must – or pop into the West Coast Delicatessen to stock up on their award-winning black pudding.
For a spot of shopping, Made In Ullapool is highly recommended as it is so much more than just a shop. It is a social enterprise where all the goods are made and sold by vulnerable people in the community. They also run frequent workshops in candle and card making which are a great way to get involved with the Ullapool spirit of kindness and inclusion.
There isn’t a lot that Ullapool doesn’t have and it’s a village fuelled by locals and tourists alike. The Welcome Committee, much like the rest of the village, is keen to see the return of excited visitors.
“We look forward to welcoming visitors back when it is safe to do so,” says Diane. “The Ullapool Community Trust are working with a focus group to produce a Safe For All Charter to request both residents and visitors to look after the community.”
When the time does come that you can once again head northwards, you can be sure of a friendly welcome in Ullapool.