Scotland the best
Bloody good pubs
Visit any of these wonderful taverns once, you’re sure to want to return. Mine’s a pint...
Clachaig Inn
300 years deep in the glen itself, down the road signed off the A82, three miles from Glencoe village. Both the pub (the Boots Bar), with its wood-burning stoves, and the lounge are woody and welcoming. Back door best for muddy footwear or those averse to sofas. Many real ales and many real climbers and walkers. Handy if you’re in the hostel a mile down the road or camping. Walking fuel food in bar/lounge. Impressive plethora of ales and beer fests.
The Steampacket Inn
The hub of this atmospheric wee village, the Isle of Whithorn, at the end of the road south. On harbour (with picture windows) that fills and empties with the tide. Great for ales and food. Seven inexpensive rooms upstairs. An all-round happy hostelry.
The Shore Inn
In cute Moray Coast village, Portsoy, at a corner of the old harbour. Strong community pub. Always locals and brimming over the walls at the annual Boat Festival.
Cluanie Inn
On A87 at head of Loch Cluanie, nine miles before Shiel Bridge on the long road to Kyle of Lochalsh (and Skye). A wayside walkers’ inn, with pub food, a restaurant and the (both bunkhouse and hotel) accommodation outdoorists want. Good base for climbing/ walking (especially Five Sisters of Kintail).
Glenelg Inn
A pub for the Highland village and those who make it over the Pass. A classic.
Castlebay Bar
Adjacent to Castlebay Hotel, Barra. A deceptively average-seeming but brilliant bar. All human life is here. More Irish than all the Irish makeovers on the mainland. Occasional live music; the comfort of craic with strangers.