Chef patron of award-winning Scottish castle restaurant with rooms steps down
The chef patron of an award-winning restaurant with rooms situated within an atmospheric Scottish castle is set to take on ‘the next chapter’ as he leaves his role.
Colin Nicholson the chef patron of Mingary Castle on the Ardnamurchan peninsula is leaving his job after six years, and multiple awards.
Mr Nicholson, who led Mingary Castle to be named Scotland’s best restaurant with rooms in 2024 by the AA, and was awarded three AA Rosettes, made the announcement via the business’s newsletter.
He wrote: “There are some announcements that are incredibly difficult to make, and this is one of them.
“After six unforgettable seasons, I have made the incredibly difficult decision to step down as Chef Patron of Mingary Castle and from the day-to-day running of the business at the beginning of November. This decision hasn’t come easily.
“Mingary Castle has been so much more than a workplace to me; it has been my home, my passion, and my life.
“Over the past six years, I have poured everything I have into this incredible place. Together with an amazing team, we’ve welcomed guests from around the world, celebrated life’s special moments, weathered challenges together, and created memories that I will carry forever.
“To everyone who has dined with us, stayed with us, supported us, recommended us, or simply believed in what we were trying to achieve, thank you. Your support has meant more than you will ever know. It has been an absolute privilege to cook for you and be part of so many wonderful moments.
“While this chapter of my journey is coming to an end, Mingary Castle’s story is far from over. The Castle will continue to operate as a restaurant with rooms, and we are now searching for the right person or people to take it into its next chapter.
“Whether that is a passionate Chef Patron, an experienced Manager, or a hospitality couple looking for a unique opportunity, I genuinely hope we find someone who will love this place as much as I have.
“If you know someone who may be interested in taking on this exciting opportunity, please ask them to get in touch by emailing [email protected]
“I will be working closely with the new partnership to ensure a smooth transition and will do everything I can to help them succeed. I care deeply about Mingary Castle, and nothing would make me happier than seeing it continue to flourish for many years to come.
“As for me, it feels like the right time to begin a new chapter. While it’s bittersweet to say goodbye, I’m also excited about what the future holds. I’ll always look back on my time at Mingary Castle with enormous pride and gratitude.
“We have achieved so much in six years, from 3 AA Rosettes and AA Restaurant with Rooms of the Year UK to Best Restaurant Newcomer at the Scottish Excellence Awards.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you to every member of staff, every supplier, every local business, every friend, and every guest who has been part of this journey.
“You have all played a part in making these six seasons so incredibly special. We will continue to operate as normal until Monday 2nd November, and we still have some availability for both overnight stays and dining.
“If you’ve been hoping to visit Mingary Castle for the first time, or perhaps return to somewhere that holds a special place in your heart, we would love to welcome you one last time before we hand the Castle over to its new owners. Availability for next season will open soon.”
Uist-born Mr Nicholson along with his then-partner and co-owner Jessica Thompson reopened Mingary Castle in 2021 as a restaurant with rooms. The 13th century castle is located on the coast of the remote Ardnamurchan peninsula, and offers a truly unique culinary experience with dishes that feature seasonal, hyper-local and foraged ingredients.
The Castle has four beautiful and individually designed suites, each named after Scottish clans that have been linked to the castle.
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