Ptarmigan Restaurant: The UK’s Highest Dining Experience on Cairngorm Mountain
Dine at the UK’s highest restaurant with panoramic Highland views and hearty local fare atop Cairngorm Mountain.
Perched at 1,097 meters above sea level atop Cairngorm Mountain, the Ptarmigan Restaurant is the highest restaurant in the UK. Accessible via Scotland’s only mountain railway, it offers stunning panoramic views of the Cairngorms National Park alongside a menu of hearty, locally inspired Scottish dishes including Highland venison chilli and Speyside beef curry. Open daily, weather permitting, it caters to a range of diets with options for vegetarians, vegans, and children.
A brief summary to Ptarmigan Restaurant
- Cairngorms National Park, Aviemore, PH22 1RB, GB
- +441479861261
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Plan your visit around the funicular railway schedule to ensure smooth access to the restaurant, especially in peak seasons.
- Try the Highland venison chilli or Speyside beef curry for a taste of authentic local cuisine.
- Hot meals are served until 3pm, so arrive early for the full menu experience.
- Dress warmly and be prepared for changing mountain weather to fully enjoy the panoramic views.
- Vegetarian, vegan, and children’s menu options are available, making it suitable for diverse groups.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Ptarmigan Restaurant location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Windy Conditions
-
Cold Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
- Snow
Discover more about Ptarmigan Restaurant
A Unique Highland Dining Destination
The Ptarmigan Restaurant holds the distinction of being the highest restaurant in the United Kingdom, situated at the top station of the Cairngorm Mountain railway at an elevation of 1,097 meters. This remarkable location offers diners not only a meal but an immersive experience amid the breathtaking Scottish Highlands. The restaurant is accessible via the funicular railway, Scotland’s only mountain railway, which provides a scenic ascent to the summit, making the journey as memorable as the destination.Menu Inspired by Local Flavors
The Ptarmigan’s menu showcases hearty Scottish fare with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Signature dishes include Highland venison chilli and Speyside beef curry, alongside lighter options such as soups and sandwiches. The restaurant thoughtfully caters to diverse dietary needs, offering vegetarian, vegan, and children’s choices. Hot food service concludes by mid-afternoon, emphasizing a relaxed dining pace to complement the mountain atmosphere.Setting and Atmosphere
Set within the rugged Cairngorms National Park, the restaurant’s panoramic windows frame sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The interior blends rustic charm with functional design, creating a cozy refuge from the often brisk mountain weather. Whether visiting in winter for skiing or summer for hiking, the Ptarmigan offers a tranquil yet lively ambience where guests can unwind and soak in the natural beauty.Seasonal Operation and Accessibility
The Ptarmigan Restaurant operates daily, weather permitting, with closures during adverse conditions or off-season periods. Its location at the top of the funicular railway makes it accessible to visitors of varying mobility levels, though the mountain environment means weather can impact access. Pre-booking the railway trip is recommended for convenience, especially during peak seasons, while the restaurant itself accepts walk-in guests.Complementary Experiences Nearby
Beyond dining, Cairngorm Mountain offers a range of outdoor activities including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and wildlife watching. The restaurant serves as an ideal base or rest stop for adventurers exploring the 30 kilometers of ski terrain or the extensive trails of the national park. Nearby Aviemore provides additional accommodation and dining options, making the Ptarmigan a highlight within a broader Highland itinerary.Legacy and Cultural Significance
The Ptarmigan Restaurant is more than a place to eat; it is a symbol of Scotland’s connection to its mountainous landscapes and outdoor heritage. Its presence atop one of the country’s highest peaks celebrates the fusion of natural grandeur with human hospitality, inviting visitors to experience the Highlands from a unique vantage point that combines culinary delight with awe-inspiring scenery.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Soldiers Head
26.1 km
Discover Soldiers Head near Inverness, a natural Highland landmark steeped in history and local legend, offering stunning views and cultural significance.
Centre of Scotland Stone
34.2 km
Discover the symbolic heart of mainland Scotland marked by a majestic stone set amidst the tranquil Highlands near Newtonmore.
Clunie Memorial Arch
46.2 km
A solemn stone arch in Perth and Kinross honoring the men who sacrificed their lives building one of the UK's largest water tunnels.
Milton of Clava
46.4 km
Explore ancient Bronze Age burial cairns and standing stones in a serene Scottish setting near the historic Culloden Moor.
Culloden Viaduct
46.6 km
Scotland’s longest masonry viaduct, a stunning 29-arch railway bridge spanning the River Nairn valley near historic Culloden Battlefield.
Leanach Farm
47.1 km
Experience authentic Highland farm life with luxury comfort, scenic views, and historic sites just minutes from Inverness.
Atholl Palace Hotel
47.2 km
Historic Victorian elegance meets Highland tranquility at Atholl Palace Hotel, a luxurious retreat in the heart of Pitlochry.
Dunfallandy Stone
48.7 km
A 1,200-year-old Pictish cross-slab revealing ancient artistry and the clash of pagan and Christian worlds.
Rait Castle
48.9 km
A haunted 13th-century hall-house ruin where medieval tragedy and rare architecture converge.
Explore Pitlochry & Highland Perthshire
49.4 km
Explore the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality of Pitlochry & Highland Perthshire, a true Scottish gem for every traveler.
Sutherland N
49.9 km
Discover the tranquility of Sutherland N Farm in Forres, where rural beauty and fresh local produce come together for an unforgettable experience.
Invermark Castle
50.0 km
Explore the rich history and stunning scenery of Invermark Castle, a must-visit landmark nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Culloden House Hotel
50.2 km
Elegant Georgian mansion with historic charm, fine dining, and tranquil gardens near Inverness in the Scottish Highlands.
Loch Ness Alpacas
50.3 km
Discover the charm of Loch Ness Alpacas, where you can interact with friendly alpacas amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Scottish Highlands.
Drumdevan Country House, Inverness
50.3 km
Historic Victorian charm meets tranquil Highland surroundings just minutes from Inverness and Loch Ness.
Unmissable attractions to see
Loch Morlich
5.8 km
A stunning freshwater loch with a sandy beach, nestled beneath the Cairngorm Mountains, offering watersports, walking trails, and breathtaking Highland scenery.
Cairngorms National Park
9.7 km
Explore the UK’s largest national park, where rugged mountains, ancient forests, and rich Highland heritage create an unforgettable wilderness adventure.
Rothiemurchus
11.9 km
Explore ancient forests, thrilling outdoor adventures, and Highland heritage at Rothiemurchus Estate near Aviemore.
Little Landys, Rothiemurchus
11.9 km
Thrilling off-road driving for kids aged 6-11 on a safe, purpose-built 4x4 track in the heart of Rothiemurchus, Aviemore.
Craigellachie National Nature Reserve (Entrance)
13.1 km
Silver birch sanctuary with summit views, where woodland solitude meets Cairngorms panoramas.
VisitScotland Aviemore iCentre
13.2 km
Your welcoming gateway to exploring Aviemore and the Cairngorms with expert advice, bookings, and local insights.
Spey Valley Shopping
13.3 km
Luxury shopping in the heart of Aviemore’s Cairngorms National Park, featuring premium brands, gifts, and a delightful food hall.
RSPB Scotland Loch Garten Nature Centre
13.8 km
Experience ancient Caledonian pine forest and iconic ospreys at the RSPB Loch Garten Nature Centre in Scotland’s Highlands.
Aviemore
13.9 km
Aviemore, nestled in the Cairngorms, combines rich history, stunning landscapes, and year-round outdoor adventures for every traveler.
Zip Trek Adventure Park Aviemore
16.8 km
Experience thrilling zip lines across a stunning Scottish gorge in the heart of Aviemore’s ancient pine forests.
Castle Roy
17.0 km
Discover Castle Roy, a 12th-century Highland fortress preserved for history, culture, and community events amid stunning Scottish landscapes.
Speyside Centre
18.0 km
A family-run garden centre and cultural hub showcasing Scottish crafts, cuisine, and hardy Highland plants in the heart of Speyside.
Highland Wildlife Park
19.5 km
Explore Scotland’s wild heart at Highland Wildlife Park, where rare animals roam free in breathtaking Highland landscapes.
Braemar Castle
19.6 km
Discover Braemar Castle, a historic 17th-century Highland fortress lovingly preserved by its community amidst the stunning Cairngorms landscape.
Braemar Highland Games Centre
19.7 km
Explore Scotland’s Highland Games heritage and royal connections at the stunning Braemar Highland Games Centre in the Duke of Rothesay Pavilion.
Essential places to dine
Ptarmigan Restaurant
0.0 km
Dine at the UK’s highest restaurant with panoramic Highland views and hearty local fare atop Cairngorm Mountain.
Cairngorm Cafe
1.8 km
Cozy café nestled in Cairngorm Mountain ski area serving hearty seasonal food with stunning Highland views year-round.
Coylumbridge Hotel
11.2 km
Family-friendly resort nestled in the Cairngorms with pools, adventure parks, and Highland charm for all ages.
The Old Bridge Inn
13.0 km
A cozy Highland gastro pub on the River Spey, blending hearty local fare, live music, and warm hospitality in Aviemore.
Happy Haggis
13.1 km
Aviemore’s cherished family-run spot serving crispy, delicious fish and chips with warm, friendly service since 1974.
Macduis Speyside Inn Catering Ltd
13.2 km
A welcoming Highland pub in Aviemore serving hearty comfort food with a famously dog-friendly atmosphere and attentive service.
The Winking Owl, Craft Ale Pub & Bar
13.5 km
Discover the charm of The Winking Owl in Aviemore – your go-to spot for craft ales and delightful cuisine amidst stunning Scottish landscapes.
Andersons Restaurant
15.5 km
Cozy and intimate dining in Boat of Garten, blending bistro charm with Scottish flavors for memorable family and special occasions.
The Boathouse Restaurant Loch Insh
16.6 km
Charming Highland dining with stunning Loch Insh views and hearty Scottish fare at the heart of the Cairngorms outdoor centre.
The Clunie Dining Room
19.8 km
Elegant Scottish fine dining with wood-fired flavors and striking contemporary art in the heart of Braemar’s Cairngorms.
The Loft Restaurant
41.4 km
Experience warm hospitality and fresh Scottish flavors in the scenic Cairngorms at The Loft Restaurant, Blair Atholl’s beloved dining spot.
Killiecrankie House
42.9 km
Award-winning fine dining and luxury bedrooms in a contemporary Scottish country house.
The Mash Tun Hotel
46.0 km
Charming Aberlour hotel with cozy rooms, acclaimed whisky bar, and a celebrated restaurant showcasing Speyside’s rich heritage.
Kildrummy Inn
47.2 km
Luxurious Scottish country inn blending Victorian charm, gourmet dining, and warm hospitality in a tranquil Aberdeenshire setting.
Victoria's Restaurant
47.2 km
A long-standing family-run eatery in Pitlochry, blending a relaxed coffee house by day with a chic bistro by evening, serving Scottish, British and Italian comfort food in a warm, open-fire setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Shop At The Top
0.0 km
Discover unique Highland crafts and outdoor gear at The Shop At The Top, a charming Aviemore destination nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms.
Aviemore Gift Company
13.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and local crafts in Aviemore’s largest and most welcoming souvenir shop.
Ellis Brigham - Aviemore
13.2 km
Your expert outfitter for skiing, climbing, hiking, and outdoor adventure in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park.
Mountain Warehouse
13.3 km
Your go-to outdoor clothing and equipment store in Aviemore for quality gear and expert advice in the heart of the Highlands.
Young's Auld Sweetie Shop
13.3 km
Nostalgic confectionery haven where vintage glass jars and pick-and-mix treasures await in the heart of Aviemore.
Nevisport
13.4 km
Your expert outfitter for top-quality outdoor gear and advice in the heart of Cairngorm National Park, Aviemore.
Trespass Aviemore
13.4 km
Essential outdoor clothing and equipment in Aviemore, perfect for exploring the Scottish Highlands year-round.
Cairngorm Mountain Sports
13.4 km
Your trusted outdoor sports shop in Aviemore, offering expert gear for alpine touring, climbing, skiing, and Nordic adventures year-round.
Blacks
13.4 km
Your essential outfitter for outdoor adventures in Aviemore, offering expert gear and advice for exploring the Scottish Highlands.
Avi Boutique
13.4 km
Discover stylish local and branded fashion at Avi Boutique, Aviemore’s premier clothing shop in the scenic Cairngorms.
The Snug
13.5 km
Discover authentic Speyside whisky and local art in a cozy, rustic setting at The Snug, Aviemore’s boutique distillery experience.
Tiso Aviemore Outdoor Experience
13.6 km
Your one-stop outdoor shop in Aviemore for expert gear, services, and a welcoming café experience in the heart of the Highlands.
Balliefurth Farm Shop
15.7 km
Highland heritage meets artisan quality in Scotland's Cairngorms—a family-run butcher and farm shop since 1948.
The Highlander
19.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and local crafts at The Highlander in Braemar - a must-visit shop for every traveler.
Braes O'Mar Gift Shop
19.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Braemar’s scenic Highlands village.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Pine Marten Bar
5.8 km
Cozy alpine-style bar in Glenmore offering local ales, hearty food, live music, and a warm welcome near Loch Morlich.
Woodshed Bar
11.1 km
A cozy log cabin bar in Aviemore offering local ales, crafted cocktails, and a warm Highland atmosphere with occasional live music.
The Aviemore Inn pub and grill
12.8 km
Cozy Highland pub in Aviemore Holiday Park serving hearty home-cooked meals and live music in a warm, family-friendly setting.
Mambos
13.2 km
Lively Aviemore bar and eatery with diverse menu, friendly vibe, and vibrant nightlife on Grampian Road in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Cairngorm Hotel
13.2 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and cozy charm in Aviemore’s Cairngorm Hotel, your gateway to the Highlands.
Skiing Doo
13.4 km
A beloved Aviemore bar and restaurant known for hearty British fare and friendly vibes, now closed but fondly remembered.
the Balavoulin
13.5 km
A cosy Highland pub and guesthouse in Aviemore offering hearty food, local drinks, and comfortable rooms in a warm, welcoming setting.
The Boat Country Inn & Restaurant
15.3 km
A cozy Highland inn blending rustic charm, hearty Scottish cuisine, and scenic mountain views in the heart of Boat of Garten.
SUIE BAR
17.5 km
Experience authentic Highland hospitality with local ales, whiskies, and live music in the historic heart of Kincraig.
Bertie's Bar
19.8 km
Discover Scotland’s whisky heritage in Bertie’s Bar, a glowing library of over 500 whiskies inspired by King Edward VII’s lavish spirit.
The Flying Stag
19.8 km
A vibrant Scottish pub in Braemar blending local heritage, hearty cuisine, and unique art in the heart of the Cairngorms.
Elsa's Bar
19.8 km
A stylish cocktail bar blending Scottish spirits and Art Deco charm in Braemar’s iconic Fife Arms hotel.
Farquharsons Bar and Kitchen
19.9 km
Cozy gastropub in Braemar offering classic Scottish fare, pet-friendly charm, and a warm Highland welcome in the heart of Cairngorms National Park.
Lochanully Bar
20.5 km
A cozy Highland bar nestled in tranquil birch woods, perfect for relaxing after exploring the Cairngorms and surrounding natural beauty.
The Craig Bar
22.9 km
A lively Grantown-on-Spey pub famed for its exceptional pies, warm atmosphere, and authentic Highland hospitality.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Vault
13.3 km
Experience Aviemore’s vibrant nightlife at The Vault, a lively nightclub blending modern beats with Highland charm every weekend.
Xplosive Discos
52.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.
Black Isle Bar & Rooms
52.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and unique offerings of Black Isle Bar & Rooms in the heart of Inverness, your gateway to local culture and craft brews.
Private Eyes Inverness
52.8 km
Experience Inverness’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, where stylish decor meets great music and a welcoming party atmosphere.
Uncle Bob's Bar
52.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Uncle Bob's Bar in Nairn, a perfect blend of traditional pub charm and sports excitement.
Aido's bar
52.9 km
Discover Aido's Bar in Nairn: A cozy pub with a friendly atmosphere, serving a great selection of local ales and spirits.
MacGregor's
52.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of MacGregor's in Inverness, offering delicious food and a great selection of drinks in a vibrant setting.
The Play House
52.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Play House in Nairn, where great drinks and lively entertainment come together for an unforgettable evening.
Seaforth Club
53.1 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant social heart at Seaforth Club, where community spirit meets lively nightlife in a welcoming setting.
Jackos Bar & Diner
53.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill options at Jackos Bar & Diner in Nairn, perfect for families and sports fans alike.
Zed Bar
61.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zed Bar in Elgin, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Joannas Nightclub
61.5 km
Lively and casual nightclub in Elgin’s town centre, offering weekend late-night music, dancing, and social vibes in a friendly local setting.
Shmelgin
61.5 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Nepal at Shmelgin, Elgin's premier Nepalese restaurant, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious dishes.
Diceys
61.5 km
Experience the lively ambiance and local brews at Diceys, Elgin's favorite pub for relaxation and entertainment.
The Elgin Club
61.6 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Elgin Club, a local bar where visitors can unwind and connect in the heart of Elgin.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
- Seasonal Only
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
