Top 10 Best North Uist Hotels, B&Bs and Pods
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Looking for the best North Uist hotels, B&Bs and pods?
You’ve come to the right place. I have travelled extensively in North Uist and stayed at or visited all the options recommended below.
Best North Uist Hotel
Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best hotel in North Uist is Langass Lodge
There are very few hotels on North Uist, so make sure to also consider staying at one of the many B&Bs and pods in the area. Some of these provide nicer rooms and better service than the hotels on the island.
The below list has a range of different types of accommodation from a charming hotel, to cabin with a hot tub and self-catering pods. What they all have in common is that they are the best options in the area for shorter stays.
Whatever type of North Uist accommodation you are looking for there is something on this list that will suit you.
10 Best North Uist Hotels, B&Bs and Pods
For anyone wanting to bring their dog I have made it easy for you by including a section on whether dogs are welcome.
Even when it says that the accommodation accepts dogs its always best to let them know at the time of booking that you are bringing a dog.
Be aware that there is often an extra cleaning fee.
Ready to explore the top B&Bs, pods and hotels North Uist has to offer? Here is the list of the top 10 best places to stay in North Uist.
1. Langass Lodge
⭐️ RATING: 9.2 | 📍 LOCATION: Carinish | ✅ Book it!
Minimum night stay: 1 night
Rooms: Langass Lodge comprises an original building and a new wing. There are a couple of bedrooms upstairs in the original building but most are located in the new wing.
Regardless of which section you stay in the rooms are clean but a tad dated. Rooms in the new wing are larger and have better views. Personally, I would ask for one in the original building. It has more atmosphere.
Common rooms: In the original building there is a bar and two restaurants with lots of charm. The common areas are well maintained and guests are welcome to sit and relax in these areas.
Breakfast and dinner: The onsite restaurant has two sections. One section is fine dining with locally sourced ingredients. The other is more casual serving classics such as fish and chips.
Due to the difficulty with finding staff (especially chefs) on these remote islands the fine dining option is not always open for lunch.
“The accommodation was excellent. The room was spacious, warm and clean. The food at dinner and breakfast was delicious. The views from our bedroom windows were outstanding. We would highly recommend this lovely hotel.“
Martin – (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Dog friendly?: Yes
Other reasons to stay: The area around the lodge is one of the areas on North Uist where you have the highest chance of spotting otters.
Every Wednesday morning otter spotting trips start at the hotel. Don’t have too high expectations – otters are very difficult to see!
Final thoughts: Langass Lodge is a bit more expensive than similar hotels on the mainland but that is just a reflection of how remote these islands are.
The rooms might be a bit dated but the charming common areas, food and service means that Langass Lodge is the closest you get to a high-end hotel on North Uist.
2. Seas the Day
⭐️ RATING: 9.8 | 📍 LOCATION: Paible | ✅ Book it!
Minimum night stay: 3 nights but most guests stay for 5 to 7 nights.
Rooms: Seas the Day is a self-catering lodge for 2 people which is perfect for couples. The lodge has one bedroom and an open plan kitchen, dining room and living room.
Outside is a terrace with views out over the machair and the Atlantic Ocean. Being west facing it is great for sunsets.
Breakfast and dinner: The cottage is self-catering. The kitchen has a hob, oven, microwave, fridge and sink.
On arrival a welcome hamper will be waiting for you with wine and basic supplies.
“Fabulous lodge – immaculately clean, very well appointed and the host was amazing. Highly recommended.“
Caroline (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Other reasons to stay: For any birdwatchers out there, Corncrakes can often be seen, or at least heard, around the cottage.
Dog friendly?: No
Final thoughts: Seas the Day is larger than the self-catering pods described below but not much more expensive.
Given the location and the fact that it is self-catering it is excellent value for money. As a result, it tends to book up quickly so make sure you plan ahead!
3. Ben View B&B
⭐️ RATING: 9.6 | 📍 LOCATION: Paible | ✅ Book it!
Minimum night stay: 1 night for the B&B, 3 nights for the self-catering cabin
Rooms: Ben View Bed and Breakfast is a family-run business with two double bedrooms and a self-catering cabin.
The cabin is a separate building next door to the B&B. It has a large private deck, hot tub and log burner which makes it perfect for couples looking for a romantic break.
Common areas: The B&B has a common room with a TV and a garden. From the table and chairs in the garden you get views of Loch Sandary and fields full of wildflowers.
Breakfast and dinner: Dinner is available on request but most guests prefer the 5 minute drive to the Westford Inn. It is a local pub serving sea food and pub classics.
For drinks and snacks the honesty bar in the B&B is useful given it is a long drive to the closest supermarket.
“Very friendly and helpful hosts who gave us excellent tips for where to explore. A superb breakfast and a lovely stay. Highly recommend.”
Sara – (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Dog friendly?: Dogs are welcome in the B&B rooms. Anyone staying at the self-catering cabin should check in advance.
Final thoughts: Ben View bed and breakfast is perfect for anyone who don’t want to cook but is looking for a more intimate experience than Langass Lodge.
The self-catering cabin is more expensive than most of the other self-catering options on the list. Having said that, you get what you pay for. With amazing views and a hot-tub it is perfect for anyone looking for a romantic break.
4. The Grimsay Cabin
⭐️ RATING: 9.0 | 📍 LOCATION: Rossinish – Grimsay | ✅ Book it!
Minimum night stay: 2 or 3 nights depending on the season
Rooms: The Grimsay Cabin’s double bedroom sleeps two adults. You can ask for an additional single bed or cot for up to two children.
The open plan living room has a kitchen, dining and sofa area.
One of the highlights of staying here is the fantastic views which can be enjoyed from the sofa or balcony. Another big hit with guests is the hot tub.
The wood-fired hot tub takes about 3-hours to warm up and the first starter kit is included in the price. Further starter packs can be purchased from the host.
Breakfast and dinner: In the kitchen you will find a Nespresso machine, hob, grill, microwave and an air fryer.
Outside is a a fire pit that can be used for BBQs – just let the hosts know before using it.
“Fantastic 3-night stay in this incredible cabin. Very high-quality furnishings, appliances and views that will make you slow down and relax. Amazing, friendly hosts.”
Wendy – (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Other considerations: It is difficult to tell from the photos online but the cottage is located close to the host’s house.
However, this is not an issue since the balcony and living room faces out towards the view. From the cottage you cannot see the house.
Dog friendly?: Yes
Final thoughts: There is no getting away from that this cabin is expensive. But as always, there is a reason for it. For this one it is because of the views and the hot tub.
Imagine having a glass wine in the hot tub looking at that view! The sunsets are also amazing.
It is the perfect place to stay for a romantic holiday.
5. Air a Chroit Luxury Pods
⭐️ RATING: 9.7 | 📍 LOCATION: Paible | ✅ Book it!
Minimum night stay: 3 nights
Rooms: There two Air a Chroit Luxury Pods sleep up to four people each. However, all the pods listed in this post are more suitable for two adults. It would be very cramped with four.
The main area is an open plan sleeping and kitchen area. Pods come with bed linen and towels.
As the name “luxury pods” indicates these pods are a cut above the rest. They are bigger and have a separation between the bed and the sofa area. Another difference is the skylight in the middle.
Most pods only have glass doors and a window in the bathroom which means that they can be a bit dark. An added benefit of having a skylight is that you can open it for ventilation.
There is a separate bathroom with a shower and toilet.
Breakfast and dinner: The pods are self-catering. The kitchen is fully equipped to cook meals and includes a microwave, hob and an oven.
On arrival a welcome pack will be waiting for you with homemade cake, fresh eggs from the host’s chickens and other goodies.
We’ve had a fantastic time. The Pod has everything you can need for a comfortable stay. The location was very good to explore the islands.
Malgorzata – (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Dog friendly?: No
Other reasons to stay: Another plus is the location. Being on a quiet corner of a family croft the two pods are set back from the main road. You can’t see any cars or hear any traffic.
They are also a distance from the owner’s house and look out over green fields.
The two pods are set slightly apart but you might be able to see and hear your neighbours from time to time.
Final thoughts: These pods might be a bit more expensive than other pods in the area but on a rainy day you will be very happy to have the extra space.
All the good reviews from other guests suggest it is worth the extra cost.
6. Vallay Sands Bed and Breakfast
⭐️ RATING: 9.7 | 📍 LOCATION: Sollas | ✅ Book it!
Minimum night stay: 1 night
Rooms: Valley Sands B&B has two rooms. Downstairs is a large and luxurious room. It has a four-poster bed, a sofa area with a TV and its own entrance.
Upstairs is a smaller double room with a table and two chairs where breakfast is served. The ensuite bathroom is a good size and has a shower cubicle.
Common rooms: There are no common rooms but outside tables and chairs have fantastic views over the tidal bay of Vallay Sand. It is the perfect place to watch sunset.
Breakfast and dinner: A continental breakfast is provided.
The room with the four-poster bed has a microwave but is not set up with proper self-catering facilities.
A simple home cooked dinner can be requested in advance. The B&B is popular with cyclists and the option of a home cooked meal is popular since the closest restaurant is a 15-minute drive away.
“Words can’t describe the beauty of the place. The room itself was large, comfortable and well decorated. The continental breakfast was delicious, especially the homemade bread. Highly recommend staying here.”
Amber – (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Dog friendly?: Yes, dogs are welcome in the room with the four-poster bed. Dogs are not allowed to stay in the smaller double room on the second floor.
Final thoughts: One of the main reasons to stay at Valley Sands B&B is the location.
The beach can be seen from the guest room windows but the best views is from the garden table in front of the house.
The views alone make a stay worthwhile!
7. The Fisherman’s Snug
⭐️ RATING: 9.7 | 📍 LOCATION: Paible | ✅ Book it!
Minimum night stay: 1 night
Room: The Fisherman’s Snug has a separate bedroom and an open plan living room with a sofa and a kitchen.
Another thing that sets this place apart is the large modern bathroom with both a shower cubicle and a bathtub.
Breakfast and dinner: The Fisherman’s Snug is a mix between a bed and breakfast and a self-contained flat where you can self-cater.
On arrival a generous hamper is provided and a selection of food is left in the fridge for breakfast. Dietary requirements can be accommodated.
A microwave, kettle, toaster and fridge allow you to prepare simple meals.
Two things which slightly limit what you can cook is that there is no hob or sink in the kitchen. However, you can leave your dishes and the host will wash them for you.
“Everything was exceptional- from the welcome from Anne, the snug itself, the breakfast hamper, the view from the snug, the facilities on offer – everything was just perfect.”
Alistair – (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Dog friendly?: Yes. This must be the most welcoming North Uist B&B for dogs. They provide a blanket for the sofa and doggy treats in your welcome hamper.
Final thoughts: The Fisherman’s Snug is an annex with a private entrance. As the name indicates the space is “snug” but perfect for couples or solo travellers wanting the ability to cook simple meals.
8. Grimsay Glamping Pods
⭐️ RATING: 9.4 | 📍 LOCATION: Rossinish – Grimsay | ✅ Book it!
Minimum night stay: 2 nights
Rooms: There are two Grimsay Glamping Pods. Both are open plan with a double bed, sofa and a dining table with chairs. Bed linen and towels are provided.
A wall between the bed and sofa makes the sitting area feel more separate.
The bathroom has an electric shower and toilet.
Each pod sleeps up to 4 adults but that would be a tight squeeze. It is better suited for 2 adults (with children using the fold out bed).
Breakfast and dinner: The kitchen has a hob, microwave and a fridge. Since there are few restaurants in the area the option of self-catering is one of the reasons why pods like these have become very popular.
“Brand new pod, absolutely clean, surprisingly well-equipped kitchen with everything you need. Super comfy bed. Very quiet surroundings.”
Kinga – (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Dog friendly?: Yes, by agreeing it with the host in advance you can bring one small pet.
Other reasons to stay: The pods are very private. There are no houses close by and the two pods are a distance apart.
Final thoughts: Both pods face the beautiful views of the beach and the mountain of Eaval on North Uist.
One pod is called Pod Ruadh and one is called Pod Glas. The two pods are pretty much identical so it doesn’t matter which one you book.
9. Newtonferry Pods
⭐️ RATING: 8.5 | 📍 LOCATION: Port nan Long | ✅ Book it!
Minimum night stay: 2 nights
Rooms: Inside the Newtonferry Pods is a double bed, sofa area, a kitchen area as well as a separate bathroom with a shower and toilet.
The sofa can be used as an additional bed sleeping up to 4 people but like all pods it is best suited for 2 adults.
Bedding and towels are provided.
Breakfast and dinner: The kitchen area has a hob, oven and fridge.
“Nice pod, well equipped, lovely area.“
Louise – (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Dog friendly?: No
Other reasons to stay: There are two pods next to each other and except for the people staying in the other pod you won’t see anyone else.
The pods are far away from other houses.
The location this far north on Uist makes it easy to explore the beaches on Berneray as well as Clachan Sands, the best beach on North Uist. Close to the pods is a smaller beach which is perfect for sunset.
Final thoughts: The pods are smaller than other pods on this list and they don’t quite have as good views. However, they are also cheaper.
It is the best budget accommodation on North Uist and the only option this far north on the island.
10. Temple View Hotel
⭐️ RATING: N/A | 📍 LOCATION: Carinish | ✅ Book it!
Minimum night stay: 1 night
Rooms: In total there are 10 bedrooms. One has facilities for disabled guests.
You get better views from rooms at the front of the hotel. North Uist once had a large monastery and rooms at the front of the hotel looks out over the temple ruins and the tidal island of Baleshare.
Rooms at the rear face the moorland.
Common rooms: Other facilities include a bar, guest lounge and a restaurant.
Breakfast and dinner: The restaurant specialises in dishes using fresh local ingredients.
Meals are served from 5.30 pm to 8 pm. When the hotel is full the restaurant is only open to hotel guests.
“The hosts were very friendly and welcoming. Our room was exceptionally comfortable and spacious. Breakfasts and evening meal were of a high standard.”
Jan – (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Dog friendly?: Yes, but they are not allowed in any of the common rooms.
Final thoughts: Temple View Hotel has a convenient location at the southern end of North Uist. This makes it easier to explore the southern islands of Eriskay and South Uist.
However, rather than driving back and forth to explore these islands from North Uist, try spending a couple of nights at one of the best accommodation options on South Uist.
FAQs About Accommodation, North Uist
Which area in North Uist is best to stay in?
There is no best or worst area as such on North Uist, it just depends on what you are looking for. The list below gives some examples:
- Best for luxury: Langass Lodge is the closest you get to a high-end North Uist hotel
- Best value for money: Seas the Day. It is the same price point as many pods but it has more space and a separate bedroom. It is defintely the best value place to stay on North Uist
- Best Pod: Air a Chrois Luxury Pods
- Most romantic: Lodge at Ben View B&B and Grimsay Cabin. With a hot tub these two self-catering cabins are definitely the most romantic
- Best for beaches: Vallay Sands B&B. North Uist has many amazing beaches but Malacleit beach at Vallay is one of the best
- Best for dogs: Fisherman’s Snug. Blankets are provided so your dog can enjoy the sofa with you and doggy treats are provided in the welcome hamper
- Best for Birders: stay in Paible. Corncrakes are often heard, and sometimes seen, in the machair. Two best options close to the machair are Seas the Day and Fisherman’s Snug
- Best view: Grimsay Cabin
- Best budget option: Newtonferry Pods
How many days to stay on North Uist?
To experience the top things to see and do on North Uist spend at least 2 days on the island. Plan to spend at least a day exploring the beaches such as Baleshare beach.
Something else that makes North Uist such a good location is you can drive to many of the nearby islands on causeways.
However, 2 days is not enough time to explore all the islands so either book a longer stay on North Uist. Or add a few days at one of the best places to stay in Benbecula, Eriskay or South Uist.
In a week you can explore all the islands including the the west coast beaches on South Uist and Culla bay on Benbecula.
How early should I book my North Uist trip?
As early as you can. There is not much accommodation on North Uist and the best options book up quickly.
Many book up 9 to 10 months in advance for the most popular times of year.
The months that are most likely to book up first are not during school summer holidays but rather in May and June. This is the time of year you are most likely to have sunny weather.
It might feel strange to book hotels in North Uist before you can book ferry tickets. However, by waiting there won’t be much availability left by the time ferry tickets are released.
Ferry schedules rarely change and it is unusual for the ferry to Lochmaddy to sell out.
Summer ferry times and tickets are released towards the end of January. Make a note in your diary to book ferry tickers in early February and you won’t have any problems.
What is a camping pod?
Over the last few years, in addition to more traditional accommodation options such as hotels and B&Bs, a new form of accommodation has become popular all over Scotland – camping pods. North Uist has many of these dotted all over the island.
Most pods have a similar layout featuring an open plan double bed with a small kitchen and a living room area. Bathrooms with a toilet and a shower are separated by an internal door.
Pods are designed to provide everything you need for a self-catering stay.
One thing that is difficult to spot when looking at pods online is whether there are more than one pod next to each other and how close they are to other houses.
Some are located in picturesque settings whilst others are situated right next to the owner’s house. Whilst one option will be more private, the other option means that the host is right next door to help with any questions you might have.
I have visited all the pods listed here and included a description of how private they are in the write up. That way you know what to expect before booking.
How many people can stay in a pod?
Pods are often advertised as being for up to four people but you would not want to stay as four adults in one of these. It would get very cramped. They are better suited for two adults.
How much luggage you have is another important point to consider. Pods will not have room for large suitcases and are best for people travelling light.
An alternative is to leave your bigger luggage in your car and only bring what you need for you stay.
Should I book self-catering accommodation in North Uist?
In recent years there has been an increasing number of accommodation options allowing for self-catering. North Uist doesn’t have many restaurants which explains why self-catering has become so popular.
Some B&Bs and hotels offer dinner, others don’t. Whether you want to eat out or have the ability to cook is something you should consider when making your decision about where to stay.
Dinner reservations should always be made in advance. More popular restaurants will also require you to book for lunch. The restaurants recommended for dinner are Berneray Bistro, Langass Lodge and the Westford Inn.
Should I Book a Hotel in Lochmaddy?
Although there are a couple of hotels in Lochmaddy, North Uist has much nicer areas to stay in. I recommend booking one of the top choices here rather than a hotel in Lochmaddy.
The accommodation is better and you will be in a much nicer part of North Uist.
Can I bring my dog to North Uist?
Yes, you can bring your dog to North Uist.
The ferries allow you to bring your dog with you but dogs need their own ticket. There is no charge for bringing dogs on the ferry.
In terms of your accommodation, even when it says you can bring a dog make sure you let the host know in advance. There is sometimes an extra cleaning charge.
How available is WiFi? And how good is the mobile signal on North Uist?
WiFi is widely available but mobile signals are not always good, especially for data. All the accommodation options listed here have WiFi.
Don’t expect to be able to use data on your phone to search the internet when you are out and about. Looking up directions or anything else is unlikely to work in some areas.
The signal can be so weak that often you will not be able to make calls either.
For directions either download a Google map before setting off or use an app such as maps.me which has offline maps.
Do I need a car to visit North Uist?
Yes, you need a car to visit North Uist. Public transport is limited and it is nearly impossible to stay at any of the options mentioned without a car.
The only exception is if you are on a cycling holiday or walking the Hebridean Way.
Book your car hire with Rental Cars
What is the best time of year to visit North Uist?
The best time of year to visit North Uist is during the summer months when the weather is warmer and there is less rain.
For the most hours of sunshine visit in May and June.
Final Thoughts: Places to Stay, North Uist
Staying in any of the North Uist hotels, B&Bs or pods on this list you can rest assured that you have picked one of the best places to stay on North Uist.
And you can then move on to planning the rest of your trip. With so many things to see and do and so many islands close by to visit you will be spoilt for choice.
You should also consider adding a few days in one of the best accommodation options in South Uist to explore South Uist and Eriskay at a more leisurely pace.
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