Best pubs in Inverness
One of the best ways to experience Inverness is through its lively pub scene. Pubs in Inverness are an important part of the local culture and are great places to meet local people and enjoy a drink. Some pubs are well known, top music venues in their own right. Use this guide to the best pubs in Inverness to find one for a pint, to taste whisky, meet locals or listen to some Scottish Music.
The best pubs in Inverness are established, authentic and often appeal to locals and tourists alike. Experience old and traditional pubs and bars. So, here we go with a list of some of the great pubs Inverness has to offer in no particular order!
Black Isle Bar
The best place to go if you enjoy your craft beers. As well as the Black Isle Brewery range, this bar has craft beers from around the world. Also known for its wood fired pizzas which use locally sourced ingredients where possible. The bar is popular with tourists and locals. Local Tip: As well as the usual sizes, the Black Isle Bar serves 1/3 pints, ideal for tasting. (The actual Black Isle Brewery is situated not too far from Inverness and produces a wide range of organic beers). Find the Black Isle Bar at 68 Church Street, Inverness on the corner.
Castle Tavern
A local pub that always seems busy but given its location high up near Inverness Castle it’s no surprise. The outdoor seating area is a popular place enjoy a pint especially on a hot summer’s day with views across to the castle and the River Ness. The Tavern is also situated near the Great Glen Way walking trail. The views from the Castle Tavern are hard to beat. There is also a restaurant on the first floor. The Castle Tavern is situated opposite the main entrance to Inverness Castle.
Gellions Bar
The oldest pub in Inverness, Gellions was established in 1841 although it’s possibly even older! This is a great place to find some music with regular live Scottish music in the evenings. There is traditional pub atmosphere with a good selection of beers and whiskies available. One of the top folk bands in Inverness is Schiehallion and they regularly play at Gellions. The pub is centrally located just along from the clock tower at 14 Bridge Street, Inverness IV1 1HD.
MacGregor’s Bar
A multi award winning bar known for its music sessions and concerts and food ranging from soup to steak to burgers to fish & chips. It was named Best Bar in 2022 by Visit Scotland’s Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards. It won again in 2023! The is also home to the popular Highland Malt Whisky Experience which takes you on a journey around the Highlands to discover its whisky and traditional music. The bar has an wide range of single malt whiskies and gin. There is a beer garden around the back of the pub. MacGregor’s Bar was founded by Bruce MacGregor, a member of a popular Scottish band, Blazin’ Fiddles. MacGregor’s Bar is situated at 113 Academy St, Inverness IV1 1LX
The Auctioneers
The Auctioneers pub in Church Street is a pub where you can have a drink, eat and watch sport on the many TV screens. It’s very spacious and often lively especially at the weekends and when big sporting events are being screened.
The Malt Room
With one of the widest Scotch whisky menus in the Inverness area, the Malt Room is tucked away down an alleyway which leads to one of Inverness’s great attractions, the Victorian Market. One of Inverness’s foremost whisky bars, it is also the smallest. Expert advice available from behind the bar, and possibly from knowledgeable customers!
Other Great Pubs
Inverness has plenty more pubs to visit including Johnny Foxes, Lauders Bar, Hootananny and the Highlander.
FAQ’s
Do pubs in Inverness provide table service? Most pubs in Inverness are fairly traditional and you just go the bar.
Do I need to book a seat? Most pubs don’t have the facility to book except perhaps for food. It can pay to stand around as many people will move from bar to bar.
What should I drink? There’s no shortage of choice! However, you could ask the bar tender for advice and discover a local favourite beer or whisky.