The Kelvin Hotel

Are you tired of faceless online bookings where service is a wifi password and keyless entry? Me too. Fortunately, the Kelvin Hotel is neither of these things. The charming proprietor greeted me warmly, and saw to every detail of my stay, with recommendations on local food, live music, parking, and fun things to do about town. She was kind enough to lend a forgotten umbrella, and took the time to make coffee in a French press when the machine in the breakfast lounge took a turn. The hotel's location is ideal, as it's within walking distance of the lovely downtown harbor, and guest rooms have recently been updated. Mine included a kitchenette with microwave, toaster, and refrigerator. Be advised that the residence is across from the ferry docking station, so there is some outside noise after 8 AM, and that the building is without an elevator, which may not suit some visitors. Already planning my next visit!

There wasn't any particular aspect I did not like, and I plan to return to The Kelvin the next time I am in Oban. As mentioned, the hotel does not have an elevator, which is in keeping with other UK hotels of its era, and the ferry just outside begins service around 8 AM weekdays. I wanted an early start anyways!

Convenient, location, room configuration for three people

Right next to car ferry docks so keep noise (horns until late at night) in mind.

Very clean and spacious room. The hotel is conveniently located to the train and ferry. It had a cozy feel and nice little bar.

There are stairs so if you have mobility issues ask for the lower floors, but stairs is normal for Europe so not a surprise.

Our room was large, had a kitchenette, comfortable bed, and everything we needed.

Parking was readily available and close by, but we had to pay for it.

We loved the friendly staff, convenient location near train station and ferry terminal, and cozy comfortable room! We will definitely be back.

Clean, modern and great location. Fantastic staff!

Great place. Clean, modern rooms. The bar downstairs was a bonus! Would stay again.

Very welcoming and accommodating staff. Location is great. Clean rooms

Excellent breakfast buffet, roomy room, clean.

Thoughtfully decorated room and room facilities. Lovely outlook and extremely helpful staff. Great location. Loved the bar for nightcap.

Reasonable rate, friendly and helpful staff, helpfully located

Comfortable and clean place to stay that is remarkably convenient - located just a few minutes' walk from the ferry to the Isle of Mull. The staff (Sheena) was friendly and incredibly helpful - she went above and beyond expectations to help us in setting our plans to visit Mull and Iona. The hotel is extremely convenient - located in the heart of Oban too.

Clean room, quiet and we were left alone. Staff were nice. Excellent location for ferries to the islands.

Quite basic accommodation. Fewer frills than expected for the money.

We arrived late from a long day of travel and were greeted with warmth and good humour. Parking is easy, the location is good.

For our purposes, it was great.

Super friendly staff, great location right across from the ferry terminal, nice lounge area. Well equipped kitchenette!

Can’t think of any constructive criticism.

Helpful staff members and nicely appointed rooms.

The rooms were spacious and warmly decorated

Friendly, helpful staff. Nice bar/pub on premises. Super close to Oban train station and ferry.

I was welcomed so warmly by Sheena when I arrived and they invited me to play in the pub. I got to meet the Vatersay Boys, a famous Scottish Traditional band. The location of this hotel was excellent. While the hotel may be a bit old, the warmth of the staff made me feel so at home. I loved chatting with Jodie in the pub. As a solo traveler, it was so special to be welcomed with such kindness and generosity. I got great tips in the pub for things to see for the rest of my trip to Scotland. The location next to the ferry was a plus. It was really easy to get to the ferry on time. I also walked into town and had a great meal at the Coast Restaurant for dinner.

Great location right across from the ferry and train station. Nice old building that has been renovated to be comfortable and efficient. Wonderful staff who greeted me when I checked in. Quaint, vintage bar in the building.

Very conveniently located, near public transport areas. Nice common areas, and lovely staff (which is true almost everywhere in Scotland!)

No complaints