Highland Soap Company shop with soap products

The Highland Soap Company Visitor Centre & Larder Café: A Must-Visit Destination in the Scottish Highlands

September 7, 2025

When you think of the Scottish Highlands, your mind might wander to sweeping glens, mirror-like lochs, and the soft mist rolling over rugged peaks. But nestled in this breathtaking landscape is another gem worth discovering — The Highland Soap Company Visitor Centre & Larder Café.

More than just a shopping stop, it’s a place where the art of traditional soap making meets warm Highland hospitality, local artisan products, and wholesome, delicious food. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking a unique experience, this destination is one you’ll want to add to your Highland itinerary.

A Warm Highland Welcome

The Highland Soap Company Visitor Centre is located in the picturesque town of Fort William, often called the "Outdoor Capital of the UK." As soon as you step inside, you’re greeted with the uplifting scents of essential oils — citrusy lemongrass, soothing lavender, earthy honey — and the gentle hum of creativity in action.

It’s not just a shop; it’s an immersive experience. Visitors can learn about the soap-making process, watch artisans at work, explore a treasure trove of organic skincare products, and indulge in delicious local produce at the Larder Café.

The Story Behind The Highland Soap Company

The Highland Soap Company is a proudly Scottish brand dedicated to creating natural, organic skincare inspired by the beauty and wild botanicals of the Highlands. Their products are handmade in small batches, using ethically sourced ingredients, sustainable packaging, and no harsh chemicals.

By visiting the Highland Soap Company Visitor Centre & Larder Café, you get to see this commitment in action. From eco-friendly production methods to locally sourced ingredients, every step reflects their passion for quality, sustainability, and a love of nature.

Discover the Visitor Centre Experience

Visiting the Highland Soap Company Visitor Centre is like stepping behind the scenes of your favourite luxury skincare brand. Here’s what you can look forward to:

1. The Soap-Making Workshop

One of the most fascinating parts of the visit is the soap-making demonstration. You’ll see exactly how their bars and lotions are made, with a focus on:

Traditional cold-process methods
Natural colourants from clays and plants
Fragrances from pure essential oils
Skin-loving base oils like coconut, olive, and shea butter

You may even spot batches of their uplifting Lemongrass & Ginger Soap in production — a zingy, mood-boosting favourite loved for its refreshing citrus and warming spice blend.

2. A Skincare Lover’s Paradise

The retail area is a treasure trove of soaps, hand washes, lotions, and body care products. Every product is:

Organic
SLS-free
Cruelty-free
Made with love in the Highlands

If you fall in love with a scent during your visit, you can take it home with you — or if you can’t get to Scotland, you can shop the range online. For example:

Uplift your senses with the Lemongrass & Ginger Hand Wash — perfect for kitchens or bathrooms.
Indulge in silky smooth skin with the Lemongrass & Ginger Hand & Body Lotion — light, hydrating, and fragrant.
Treat yourself to the fruity, summer-inspired Wild Scottish Raspberry Hand & Body Lotion.
Or opt for the comforting, rich Whisky & Honey Hand & Body Lotion — a warm, luxurious treat for dry skin.

3. The Larder Café

After exploring the Visitor Centre, you can unwind at the Larder Café, which serves up freshly prepared, locally sourced food. Expect seasonal soups, hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and delicious cakes — all paired with artisan teas and locally roasted coffee.

Where possible, ingredients are sourced from nearby farmers, bakers, and suppliers, making every meal a celebration of Highland produce.

The café also caters to dietary needs, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available, so everyone can enjoy a taste of the Highlands.

Why It’s Worth the Trip

Visiting The Highland Soap Company Visitor Centre & Larder Café is not just about shopping — it’s about slowing down, appreciating craftsmanship, and connecting with the people and stories behind the products you use.

Here’s why it’s a must-visit:

Immersive Experience – See products being made and meet the makers.
Support Local – Your purchases directly support a sustainable, ethical Scottish business.
Treat Yourself & Others – The perfect place to find thoughtful gifts.
Savour Highland Flavours – The café is reason enough to stop by.

Bringing the Highlands Home

Even if you can’t make it to Fort William, you can still bring a little bit of the Highlands into your home with their signature products. Here are a few highlights from our collection:

Tips for Visiting

Check opening hours before you go — especially in winter months.
Arrive early if you want to enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the café.
Allow at least an hour to browse the shop, watch demonstrations, and enjoy the food.
Bring a reusable bag for your purchases — sustainability is part of the ethos here.

A Place Where Scents, Scenery, and Sustainability Meet

The Highland Soap Company Visitor Centre & Larder Café offers something rare: a blend of sensory indulgence, natural beauty, and genuine Highland hospitality. It’s a place where you can:

Smell the fresh lemongrass as soap is poured into moulds
Taste locally made cakes with a steaming cup of tea
Hear the stories of a brand rooted in its landscape
See the care and craftsmanship in every product

And when you leave, you can take a piece of that experience home — whether it’s a bar of refreshing Lemongrass & Ginger Soap or a bottle of comforting Whisky & Honey Hand & Body Lotion.

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