Ullapool

✓ Wildly Wandering Tested

A scenic Highland harbour town on the shores of Loch Broom, with a beautiful waterfront, local shops, seafood, cafés and easy access to the surrounding Northwest Highlands.

📍 Ullapool, Ross-shire, Scottish Highlands · Scotland

Updated 11/09/2026

Ullapool

At a glance

ParkingPublic car parking around the town and harbour.
Parking costPaid
ToiletsYes
Dog friendlyYes
Child friendlyYes
FacilitiesHarbour, shops, cafés, restaurants, seafood, public toilets, supermarkets, fuel, ferry terminal, car parks and local services
5G mobile signalGreat

Our experience

Ullapool, Scottish Highlands

Ullapool was one of those places where I could have happily spent much longer wandering around. Once I had parked up, I headed straight towards the harbour and walked along the whole seafront. Ullapool really is a scenic wee Highland town, with the harbour, mountains and water making it a beautiful place to explore on foot.

Walking the Harbour

I started by walking along the whole seafront of the harbour, taking in the views and watching the activity around the waterfront.

There was something really enjoyable about simply walking without having anywhere particular I needed to be. The harbour and Loch Broom give Ullapool a beautiful setting, with the surrounding Highland landscape making it feel much more special than an ordinary town walk.

It was one of those places where I kept looking around as I walked because there was always another view to enjoy.

The Seafood Shack

Of course, I couldn't visit Ullapool without making a stop at one of its best-known food spots, The Seafood Shack.

And this is where I had what I genuinely think was the best roll I've ever had.

I went for the hot lobster roll served in a brioche bun with lemon and chive mayonnaise, and it was absolutely incredible.

The combination of the lobster, soft brioche and lemon and chive mayonnaise was honestly perfect. It's one of those meals that immediately makes you think, I need to come back and try something else.

The Seafood Shack focuses on fresh local seafood, and that definitely came through in my meal.

Exploring the Town

After finishing my food, I walked back towards my car, but I didn't go straight there.

Instead, I stopped off along the way to browse through some of Ullapool's local shops.

There was plenty to look at, and I really enjoyed taking my time wandering through the town rather than simply treating Ullapool as somewhere to stop for food or fuel.

It made the whole visit feel much more relaxed.

What I Liked Most

For me, it was the combination of the harbour, the scenery, the food and the little local shops.

Ullapool has a really nice atmosphere. It's scenic enough to make you want to stop and explore, but it still feels like a real Highland town rather than simply being a tourist attraction.

And honestly, that lobster roll deserves a special mention all by itself.

Would I Visit Again?

Absolutely.

I will definitely be back to Ullapool, and one of the main reasons is so that I can work my way through more of The Seafood Shack's menu.

There is also plenty more of Ullapool that I'd like to explore properly, so next time I'll be giving myself more time to wander around the town and harbour.

Wildly Wandering Rating

5/5

Ullapool is a beautiful Highland town with a gorgeous waterfront, plenty to explore and some seriously good food. For me, the harbour walk and that lobster roll made it a definite highlight.

Wildly Wandering Recommendation

If you're travelling through the Northwest Highlands or following the NC500, I'd definitely recommend stopping in Ullapool rather than simply driving through.

Take a walk along the harbour, explore the local shops and, if you're a seafood lover, make time for The Seafood Shack.

Wildly Wandering tip: Don't rush Ullapool. Give yourself time to walk the waterfront, browse the local shops and grab something to eat. And if The Seafood Shack is on your list, go hungry!