Nothing beats a traditional pub for a quiet drink, or a catch-up with friends.
There’s something about the wood panelling, the reassuringly standard beers on tap and the friendly bar staff that soothes the soul like slipping on a favourite jumper or pair of slippers.
From waterfront drinking dens to real ale champions, this list of the top ten traditional Inverness pubs will suit all types. Bring friends or come alone – you are sure to find a warm welcome.
Gellions Bar
With a claim to be the oldest bar in Inverness, The Gellions is as traditional as they come.
You’ll find a good range of whiskies and beers here, as well as a traditionally warm Invernessian welcome. What’s more, seven nights out of the week Gellions hosts live music, which is also of the traditional kind.
Accordions, penny whistles, bodhrans and fiddles are the order of the evenings. So grab a seat and enjoy.
Address: 14 Bridge St, Inverness IV1 1HD
Glenalbyn Bar
Like the Gellions, the Glenalbyn dates back a few years and has a history as a coach house.
The pub sits right on the waterfront in Inverness, making it a great spot to meet friends before a night out.
So if you are in town and looking for an authentic Highland pub experience then this is the place for you.
Address: 2 Young Street, Inverness IV3 5BL
The Castle Tavern
Just finished the Great Glen Way? Tired and footsore? Looking for a place to rest those weary feet but also celebrate your incredible achievement?
Then the Castle Tavern is the place for you. This traditional Inverness pub sits opposite Inverness Castle, the endpoint of the Great Glen Way (or the start, if you are heading south).
So grab a seat and give yourself a pat on the back. You deserve it.
Address: 1 View Pl, Inverness IV2 4SA
The Waterfront
Inverness doesn’t lack for pubs with good views, and the Waterfront is one of them.
Sitting right on the river, The Waterfront also boasts a good selection of drinks.
And hidden behind the traditional pub look of the bar is a great kitchen that serves up excellent food.
Address: 70 Huntly St, Inverness IV3 5JN
Innes Bar
A pub was officially opened on this site in 1860, although there was one trading there for at least 10 years before it became a licensed house.
The Innes Bar is a friendly local pub with an inviting air and welcoming staff.
It’s near the city centre and has a loyal following of locals that are blessed with one of the best pub quizzes in Inverness.
It’s also an ideal place if you like pool, darts, dominoes and live music. If live music is your thing, check out our guide to the best live music pubs in Inverness.
Address: 61 Innes Street, Inverness IV1 1NR
The Phoenix
A traditional pub needs traditional beer, and the Phoenix has some of the best real ale in Inverness.
Recognised by CAMRA, the real ale group, this pub has a more modern take on the traditional boozer, with a focus on serving quality drinks.
There is also a restaurant and lounge area.
Address: 110 Academy St, Inverness IV1 1LX
The Fluke
This local favourite has been around for years and is the epitome of a traditional Highland watering hole.
The staff at The Fluke are friendly and the locals even more so.
Make friends for life in a pub that puts on a heap of community events and is a part of the fabric of Inverness.
Address: Culcabock Road, Inverness IV2 3XQ
Rose Street Foundry
The historic city centre building has a long association with Inverness and the Highlands.
For generations since the late 1800s, the foundry and latterly as AI Welders, it was a training ground for tradesmen and craftsmen throughout the area.
The Cairngorm Brewery bought the building in 2013 and spent £2.2 million on a major restoration, including its famous and colourful murals.
It was taken over in 2023 by Rio Sol which re-opened the premises as a bar, restaurant and music venue.
The Rose Street Foundry’s connection to the past is seen in full-size wall murals and many of the original artefacts displayed on site.
Address: 96 Academy St, Inverness IV1 1LU
Market Bar
This Inverness institution is situated in the city’s Victorian Market and is renowned as a traditional and down to earth pub, welcoming locals and visitors.
The Market Bar is also well known for hosting regular music nights featuring local musicians.
In the past it has featured some very recognisable names, including Amy Macdonald, The Proclaimers, Paolo Nutini and Billy Connolly.
Address: 32 Church Street, Inverness, IV1 1EH
Blackfriars
It may have been recently refurbished, but this popular bar is located in a building dating from 1793.
Blackfriars is in the Old Town area where it adds to the growing nightime economy alongside other pubs and eating places.
It is also a restaurant and hotel with nine boutique bedrooms, making it ideal to pop in for a drink, stay longer for a meal, or enjoy a relaxing break.
Address: 93-95 Academy St, Inverness IV1 1LX
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