The Best Bars And Pubs In Inverness Scotland

Many travellers to Inverness seek it out only as a ‘base camp’ for nearby adventures, like Loch Ness or Culloden Moor, and spend little to no time enjoying the city. Worthy pursuits, but Inverness has its own delights worth uncovering. Come and soak up the atmosphere at 10 of the best pubs and bars this Scottish city has to offer.

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Bar One Inverness

This lively and unpretentious spot prides itself on being Inverness’ ‘original cocktail bar’. Serving up delicious cocktails alongside high-energy tunes and a bustling atmosphere, it’s clear Bar One has gotten the formula for success right. Keen learners can also sign up to take cocktail-making classes from the helpful bar staff.

This is the ideal location to enjoy some Scottish music in the capital of the Highlands, and the best place to go is Johnny Foxes, which has live entertainment every night, ranging from trad to popular tunes to the occasional karaoke night. Order some pub food and a pint, and sit back and listen.

Number 27

Come to Number 27 with an appetite, because the food is as worthwhile as the drinks. Try the Highland chicken, wrapped in bacon and served atop a bed of haggis with black pudding mash — and on Mondays, don’t miss the steak dinner special. And of course, grab a glass of vino to accompany it.

Gellions Bar

For a classic Highland pub experience, look no further than Gellions Bar. Dating back to 1841, this pub has live music every night, a ceilidh, or traditional Scottish dance, on Saturdays, and a menu of quintessential food and drink.

Innes Bar

Originally opening its doors in 1860, this pub is one of the oldest bars in Inverness. The bar houses multiple darts, dominoes and pool teams, as well as serving as a meeting ground for avid fans of Caley Thistle, or the Inverness Caledonian Thistle Football Club, making it a lively and energetic place. Stop by to watch the sporty proceedings and enjoy a drink along with classic pub fare like battered haddock or a steak and ale pie.

The Snow Goose

This charming country pub offers a delightfully quaint atmosphere and rustic seasonal cooking amidst beautiful surroundings, located on land originally a part of Stoneyfield House, a holding on the Raigmore Estate built around 1780. With a handpicked wine list of nearly 40 offerings, as well as craft ales and other beverages, there is something for everyone.

The Castle Tavern

In good weather, head over to this traditional tavern to make use of its beer garden, which is full of bright red picnic tables. An award-winning Real Ale pub, The Castle Tavern affords views of the castle and is a friendly, inviting place for a drink with friends.

Hootananny

This welcoming Church St pub is well known for its live Scottish music. Order up some traditional food and drinks from the menu, find a table and take in the sounds of whatever talented musical act is at the helm that night.

The Waterfront

Bustling with locals, with a cheerful staff and laid-back vibe, The Waterfront is a scenic pub which offers filling meals and tasty drinks for reasonable prices — try the cocktail of the week for £5. This place gets busy, so book a table beforehand, particularly on Thursdays when the pub plays host to live music.

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