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The Best Pub Walks in Scotland

Sligachan | © Michal Ziembicki/Flickr
Sligachan | © Michal Ziembicki/Flickr
Photo of Tori Chalmers
Tori Chalmers
19 July 2017

Sometimes it’s the simple things that take your breath away. Scotland, with its abundance of sublime walking trails and endless pubs, is a playground for forging through new frontiers of fun. From mighty mountains and historic hills to serene seaside wanderings, embrace the celebratory après-walk boozy affair and discover our guide to the best pub walks in Scotland.

Arthur’s Seat and The Sheep Heid Inn

Popular and noble, Arthur’s Seat is a hill beholden to history, adored by climbers, praised by geologists and in tune with walkers. Surprisingly, ascending this beauty is less arduous than expected, with plenty of pitstops to be had along the way. Once over the emotions sparked from magnificent views of the Firth of Forth, the only option is to consume a plethora of pints and good old Scottish pub grub at The Sheep Heid Inn. Complete with a smashing fireplace, comfy seats and old school skittle bowling alley, this dream watering hole has been going strong for over 600 years.

The Sheep Heid Inn, 43-45 The Causeway, Edinburgh, Scotland, +44 131 661 7974

Glencoe and Clachaig Inn

The renowned area of Glencoe has some absolute cracking climbs and epic walking routes. Whether trusty favorites like Buachaille Etive Mòr or adrenaline-inducing scramble sessions for hardcore climbers such as the Aonach Eagach Ridge, to the likes of Beinn a’ Bheithir and Bidean nam Bian, Glencoe caters to the most gung-ho of adventurers. Rivaling the influx of emotions and glorious views from the top is the Clachaig Inn, a rite of passage for any climber. The food, drinks, tavern feel and riveting chats render it mountains ahead of the rest.

Clachaig Inn, Glencoe, Argyll, Scotland, +44 1855 811252

Ben Nevis and Ben Nevis Inn & BunkHouse

Famous and mighty, Ben Nevis, situated in Lochaber in the Scottish Highlands, is the tallest mountain in the British Isles at 1,345 meters above sea level. With over 100,000 ascents each year, this dilapidated volcano dome is unwavering in its appeal to climbers and walkers. Aside from the intriguing observatory rooms on the summit, another highlight of this invigorating climb is the legendary Ben Nevis Inn & Bunkhouse, an unpretentious inn situated in a converted 200-year-old barn. Live music, lodgings and the beer garden are all added bonuses.

Ben Nevis Inn & Bunkhouse, Achintee Rd, Fort William, Scotland, +44 1397 701227

Sligachan and Sligachan Hotel

Sligachan, a small snippet of a place on Skye, is a hop, skip and jump near the ominous Cuillin Mountains. Back in the day, x marked the spot where avid climbers would commence their ascent of these gracious natural masterpieces. So, walk in the footsteps of the greats and venture around the wondrous glen and sea loch. Meander on a trail that lures you amidst the peaks of Marsco and Sgùrr nan Gillean. Wanderers may wish to follow their noses all the way to Loch na Creitheach, too. Post-adventure beverages and food can be had at the Sligachan Hotel. Seumas’ Bar, winner of ‘Whisky Bar Of The Year’ for three consecutive years, is a goldmine of fun overflowing with over 400 malts and local ales from the nearby Cuillin Brewery.

Sligachan Hotel, Sligachan, Isle of Skye, Scotland, +44 1478 650204

Cramond Causeway and The Cramond Inn

Just minutes away from the center of Edinburgh stands the picture perfect village of Cramond. A walker’s paradise, this serene spot is garnished with glistening sands, bobbing boats and the River Almond, which flows out into the Firth of Forth. After following the weaving River Almond, those with an investigative streak can roam the Cramond Causeway until reaching the abandoned Cramond Island, when the tide permits, naturally. Even better, visit at dusk and admire the moving pylon shadows. Following embracing the fairytale feels and numerous pacing paths on offer, The Cramond Inn is cozy to the core and a welcoming drinking den.

The Cramond Inn, 30 Cramond Glebe Rd, Edinburgh, Scotland, +44 131 336 2035

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