The Ferry Boat Inn - 3 star Accommodation For an Inn with Rooms, awarded by Visit Scotland - is ideally situated right on the shorefront in Ullapool overlooking Loch Broom, so some truly panoramic vistas are guaranteed. There’s an impressive bar with a fireplace and there are a few things more relaxing than sitting by the window and taking in views of the sea with a pint in your hand. There is also a clean and airy dining area, which is equally pleasant. In the winter there is always a roaring real fire, beside which you can sample a dram or while away the evening with a game of darts or cards. The Ferry Boat Inn is right on the busy main street in Ullapool, very near the Harbour and Ferry Terminal, so do note that parking is at a premium in the summer.

The menu opens with the likes of grilled goats' cheese, wood pigeon breast and beetroot salad with pickled walnuts and highland game terrine with red onion marmalade. Main course options include pan fried duck breast with braised red cabbage served on mustard mash; smoked haddock and black pudding parcel, wrapped in Parma ham with sauce mornay, and Italian stuffed aubergines with tomato salad. Cheesophiles might opt for a Scottish cheeseboard with oatcakes and for the rest a sticky toffee pudding should appeal.

Reservations are essential in the summer, when The Ferry Boat Inn is busy, however, in the winter tables should be available without reservations. Food is offered seven days a week with the menu changing daily, depending on what local produce is in season or recommended.