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The Island Bear B&B

Property class: 3

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Reception - The Island Bear B&B (Islay Island)
Room - The Island Bear B&B (Islay Island)
A bicycle parked in front of a building with a sign reading "KILCHOMAN." - The Island Bear B&B (Islay Island)
Tasting room - The Island Bear B&B (Islay Island)
A bicycle on a sandy path with a sunset in the background. - The Island Bear B&B (Islay Island)
Located close to Bowmore Distillery and Bruichladdich Distillery, The Island Bear B&B provides free full breakfast, an adjacent golf course, and a sauna. Get out on the links at this bed & breakfast and enjoy amenities such as a driving range, golf lessons, and a golf pro shop. Stay connected with free in-room WiFi.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi

Off-peak, on budget: 30% or more off select hotels in our fall sale

Skip the crowds, keep the savings. AARP members save more after Labor Day. Book by Oct 7, 2026.

Room options

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Showing 4 of 4 rooms

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Room

Twin Room

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(5 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds

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Room

Double Room

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(5 reviews)
  • Partial sea view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

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Bathroom

Double Room 5

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

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Room

Double Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Partial sea view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

About the neighborhood

Located in Islay Island, The Island Bear B&B is in the city center and on the boardwalk/promenade. Bowmore Distillery and Bruichladdich Distillery are two other places to visit that come recommended. Relax and indulge in the area's winery tours, or seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails nearby. Visit our Islay Island travel guide
View more B&B in Islay Island
Map
Shore Street, Bowmore, Islay Island, Scotland, PA43 7LB

What's nearby

  • A coastal scene with a white building labeled "LACAVULIN" and a rocky shoreline with purple flowers.
    Lagavulin Distillery
    29 min drive - 16.7 miles
  • Several wooden barrels stacked on the ground.
    Ardbeg Distillery
    30 min drive - 17.5 miles
  • Bowmore Distillery
    2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • MacTaggart Leisure Centre
    3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Laphroaig Distillery
    26 min drive - 14.8 miles

Getting around

  • Islay (ILY)
    10 min drive

Restaurants

  • The Port Charlotte Hotel And Restaurant
    16 min drive
  • Taj Mahal Tandoori
    1 min walk
  • Islay’s Plaice
    4 min walk
  • Lochindaal Seafood Kitchen
    16 min drive
  • The Rhinns Cafe
    18 min drive

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 50+ Mbps
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free offsite parking
  • 24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge)

Food and drink

  • Free full breakfast available daily 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM

Things to do

  • 18-hole adjacent golf course
  • Golf carts
  • Golf driving range
  • Golf lessons
  • Indoor pool (guest access)
  • Pro golf shop
  • Sauna
  • Wine tasting room
  • Wine tours

Family friendly

  • Access to nearby indoor pool

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (on request)

Outdoors

  • On the boardwalk/promenade

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • 3 floors
  • Built in 1886
  • Renovated entire property - February 2023
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Victorian architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Flat-screen TV

Food and drink

  • Electric kettle
  • Tea bags/instant coffee

More

  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Iron/ironing board on request

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); to arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 24 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
The property charges GBP 4 for credit card payments
There is no front desk at this property
Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; access will be through a private entrance
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 6 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Private entrance

Pets

Pets not allowed (service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees)

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
1 child can stay for free if using existing beds when occupying the parent or guardian's room
Rollaway/extra beds are not available
Cribs (infant beds) are not available

Important information

Optional extras

  • Airport shuttle fee: GBP 35 per vehicle (one-way, maximum occupancy 8)
  • Credit card charges are subject to a surcharge of GBP 4

The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts mobile payments and cash
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit

We should mention

This property does not have elevators
Reservations are required for golf tee times; reservations can be made by contacting the property prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
A car is recommended for transportation to and from this property
This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly)

Frequently asked questions

Is The Island Bear B&B pet-friendly?

No, only service animals are welcome at the property.

How much is parking?

There is free parking nearby.

What time is check-in at The Island Bear B&B?

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Island Bear B&B?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Does The Island Bear B&B provide a shuttle to the airport?

Yes, there's an airport shuttle. A fee of GBP 35 per vehicle applies.

Where is The Island Bear B&B located?

Located in the heart of Islay Island, this golf bed & breakfast is 0.1 mi (0.2 km) from Bowmore Distillery and within 12 mi (20 km) of Bruichladdich Distillery and Museum of Islay Life. Wildlife Information Centre and Caol Ila Distillery are also within 12 mi (20 km).

Can I cancel my reservation for free and receive a full refund?

Yes, this property offers free cancellation on select room rates, because flexibility matters! Please refer to the property cancellation policy on our site for more details about any exclusions or requirements.

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Reviews

The Island Bear B&B Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

10

Cleanliness

10

Location

9.8

Staff & service

9.8

Property conditions & facilities
Rating 10 - Excellent. 78 out of 95 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 14 out of 95 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 95 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 95 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 95 reviews

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Our room was small but the bed so comfy and the place was quiet. Breakfast was fabulous and communication was good. We would stay there again.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We had a lovely stay at The Island Bear. My husband was struggling with the stairs and we were kindly moved to a ground floor room. The people could not have been more helpful and welcoming. Excellent breakfast too.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very recently fitted out accomodation in the heart of Bowmore just steps from a selection of restaurants, the distillery and public transport. On arrival the host talked us through the arrangements with an outstanding breakfast each morning at the nearby Harbour Inn overlooking the bay. Very high spec fitout of the spotlessly clean room and ensuite and a very comfortable bed. Bowmore is an ideal central location from which to visit and enjoy the island which has lots to offer in addition to the whiskies. Highly recommend.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff were very friendly, helpful and communicative. They were doing work on the reception area and adding a laundry room while we were there, but they said we could go watch TV in the downstairs lounge while work was happening.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very friendly staff
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Had a problem finding the place, parking a bit of a problem during the day. Friendly people, clean rooms and en-suite. Adequate Continental breakfast, with a snack box take away if you feel like snacking later.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The Island Bear is simply fantastic overall. Everyone in the team was friendly and going the extra mile to help, and they gave excellent recommendations and suggestions on what to see and do on Islay. The room was very comfortable and clean, and breakfast was always delicious and they offered different choices every day. The B&B is just 2 minutes from Bowmore Distillery so cannot be more convenient. There are also restaurants and a cute souvenir shop across the road. The price we got was such a bargain for accommodations on Islay as well. Highly recommended!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Helpful hotel owner, Nice scotich breakfast, Clean room.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Central location for exploring Islay and Jura.

Great place to stay in the middle of Islay’s largest village. Friendly and helpful staff.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The Island Bear is very conveniently located in the cneter of Islay, a block away from ameneties, and the revered Bowmore distillery. The propert is nice, clean and lovingly mainted by the couple who also live there and are very helpful. Dunca (the owner) prepared deliciious Scotish breakfast every morning and was a reservoir of Islay knowledge. He knows every body on the Island, and everyone knows him fondly. I had great discussion with Duncan at breakfast every morning, and it was a highlight of my trip. Thank you for your hospitality.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Enjoyed a couple of days staying here. Rooms were very comfortable and clean. Nice breakfast.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The Island Bear is a wonderful place to base a trip to Islay. It is situated at the center of town in Bowmore. The owners are very attentive and nice to talk with. The rooms are modern and very clean. Highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very friendly staff,nice breakfast walking distance to pubs , shopping and other convenient facilities. Comprehensive local information provided in room. Nice relaxation area
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fiona and Duncan is friendly and helpful and provided a great breakfast every morning. The hotel was quiet and conveniently located a street from the ocean and and across the road from the Bowmore distillery with good restaurants nearby. Very comfortable beds and clean facilities.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Convenient location
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very kind owners, easy check in and check out. Delicious home made breakfast in the morning. The room/bathroom was comfortable and homely. Location (in Bowmore) is ideal as a central location on Islay, and you have access to bus services.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Duncan and Fiona were fantastic hosts so welcoming they recommended some lovely places to eat.The B&B was spotless extremely comfortable bed and a great breakfast. Could not have asked for more.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Best place to stay on Islay

The location was perfect right in the heart of Bowmore with a wonderful view. Fiona and Duncan were wonderful hosts with excellent food, wit, and charm. The room was spacious and clean with everything we could have needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fiona and Duncan are a ton of fun, and they make sure you're well-fed to start the day and have great local advice on how to get around Islay, especially on Sundays when the bus doesn't run. Definitely can't go wrong a The Island Bear, and the rooms are great
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Really friendly owners, a clean and spacious room. Parking was no problem, close to the Bowmore distillery. Got a fully cooked Scottish breakfast, tasty! Weather wasn‘t so friendly, but hey: It‘s Scotland! Enjoyed my stay and hopefully will come back again.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Staff friendly and interested in what we'd done during the day. Towels not changed or room serviced during 3 night stay. Breakfast available after 8, limited time slots.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Mr Duncan and Miss Fiona are excellent hosts. A stones throw from Bowmore Distillery, and centrally located in Bowmore town. Couldn’t have asked for a better experience!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Property location is great for touring the Island, also central for walking around Bowmore. The room was spacious and clean. Breakfast was good with plenty on offer. Fiona and Duncan are very friendly and helpful.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
An excellent bnb! It was extremely clean. The bed was comfy, the room was spacious enough, and the bathroom was updated. Duncan and Fiona went out of their way to explain a lot of local history and met our every need. The breakfast was one of the most generous we encountered in Scotland.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I stayed here for four nights and absolutely loved it. Fillip, the owner, was incredibly welcoming and genuinely caring, his hospitality made me feel right at home. He’s very knowledgeable about Bowmore village and Islay overall, and always happy to share great local tips. Each morning he personally cooks a delicious hot Scottish breakfast, served between 8 and 9 a.m. at the time you request the night before, such a nice touch. The room was spotless, spacious, cozy, and warm, with no issues at all with hot water or water pressure (if that’s important to you!). My room was on the British second floor and was wonderfully comfortable. The location couldn’t be better, right in the centre of Bowmore, just a 5-minute walk to Bowmore Distillery and about 2 minutes to the nearest bus stop. I truly enjoyed my stay here and look forward to coming back on my next visit to Islay!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025