130 years of Hospitality

Since first opening its doors in 1892, The Star Hotel has stood as a cornerstone of the local community, its story woven into the fabric of Highland life.

Over the decades, the hotel has embraced change while maintaining its historic charm. In the 1930s, it was run by a well-known local family—famed not only for their friendly service but also for the distinctive car they operated, which became an iconic symbol of the hotel at the time.

Today, The Star Hotel blends modern comfort with heritage character. With 21 well-appointed bedrooms, it is ideally situated for those looking to explore the stunning Cairngorms and the cultural richness of the surrounding area. 

More than just a place to stay, the Star remains a welcoming hub for both visitors and locals alike, carrying forward its legacy of genuine Scottish hospitality.

Why “Jacobite” and “Wolf”?

The Jacobite Bar & Grill takes its name from one of Scotland’s most storied eras. The white rose, a symbol of the Jacobite cause, represents enduring loyalty to the House of Stuart. In 1745, Bonnie Prince Charlie led a dramatic uprising to reclaim the throne, rallying Highlanders, Lowlanders, and allies from across Europe. Though the campaign ended in defeat at the Battle of Culloden, the Jacobite legacy still echoes across the Highlands—in place names, stories, and symbols.

Kingussie, nestled in the heart of this historic landscape, bore witness to these turbulent times. Nearby castle ruins once belonged to Alexander Stewart, the infamous Wolf of Badenoch—a fearsome figure in medieval Scotland. In 1746, Jacobite forces burned his barracks in a final act of defiance, linking the town even more closely to the rebellion’s final days. In tribute to this fierce past, our Wolf Bar carries his name, offering a nod to the region’s wild, dramatic history.