Ullapool’s highly-anticipated new Rhidorroch Distillery bar announces opening date
A HIGHLY-anticipated new bar in the heart of Ullapool has announced it will be opening in July.
Rhidorroch Distillery’s new Shore Street bar has been under construction since the beginning of 2024 in the old Frigate Bar and Bistro building in Ullapool.
The Wester Ross entrepreneurs behind the business are now hoping to open the bar this summer, one-and-a-half years on from beginning construction work the project.
In a Facebook post, Rhidorroch Distillery said: “Seeing our sign go up is the best feeling and we can’t wait to open in JULY!”
Excitement for the opening has been growing among locals and visitors alike, who shared their support in post’s comments. Nula Alice Webb said: “Congratulations! You guys are total superstars, this is incredible. I can’t WAIT to visit!”
Zuzana Buvalova added: “You’ve been working so hard, I can’t wait to see the results.”
The proposal was first lodged in summer 2023 by local business, Rhidorroch Distillery, for alterations to the old Frigate Bar and Bistro building on Shore Street, in Ullapool.
Rhidorroch Distillery, owned by local gin enthusiast Katie Scobie, stated in the 2023 planning application that the existing building and outside beer garden "will be used for the same purpose as it has been used for the last 30-plus years" and will have a bar and small shop.
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A design statement lodged with the original planning application to Highland Council says: "The proposed works will enhance the site and its setting by allowing a new, modern craft distillery to be formed on the footprint of a poor quality, substandard workshop/shed.
“The building will be constructed with materials and a design that is of the highest architectural quality and workmanship.
"This will result in a building that provides an impressive space, and a unique visitor experience for the village."
Rhidorroch Distillery is best-known for its Loch Achall gin, which was a finalist in the Scottish Gin Awards 2021. The company also have a pop-up gin bar in Ullapool during the summer months, which offers speciality cocktails.
