Hole I' The Wa' Inn: Dumfries' Historic and Quirky Town Centre Pub
A historic and lively Dumfries pub offering authentic Scottish charm, good-value drinks, hearty food, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Hole I' The Wa' Inn is a traditional, inexpensive pub located on Dumfries' High Street, known for its friendly atmosphere, lively music nights, and authentic Scottish charm. This historic venue offers good-value drinks, hearty food served until late evening, and a welcoming vibe with a mix of locals and visitors. Its quirky interior features and rich social scene make it a standout spot in Dumfries' town centre.
A brief summary to Hole I' The Wa' Inn
- 156 High St, Dumfries, DG1 2BA, GB
- +441387252770
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-12:30 am
- Tuesday 9:30 am-12:30 am
- Wednesday 9:30 am-12:30 am
- Thursday 9:30 am-12:30 am
- Friday 9:30 am-1 am
- Saturday 9:30 am-1 am
- Sunday 11 am-12:30 am
Local tips
- Visit on Thursday to Saturday nights for lively karaoke and tea dance events.
- Try the well-priced house spirits and enjoy generous measures.
- Food is served until late evening—ideal for a hearty meal after exploring Dumfries.
- Engage with locals for a true taste of Dumfries’ friendly pub culture.
- Be prepared for a rustic interior that adds to the pub’s authentic character.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
Hole I' The Wa' Inn location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Hole I' The Wa' Inn
A Storied Venue in Dumfries’ Heart
Nestled on 156 High Street, Hole I' The Wa' Inn is a quintessential Scottish pub that embodies the spirit of Dumfries. Its origins trace back centuries, making it a fixture in the town’s social fabric. The pub’s name, evocative of a traditional local expression, hints at its deep-rooted cultural significance. Over the years, it has welcomed generations of locals and travelers alike, preserving an authentic atmosphere that reflects the town’s heritage.Atmosphere and Character
The pub’s interior is a blend of historic charm and quirky features, with wooden floors and a slightly worn aesthetic that adds to its character. Despite some calls for refurbishment, the space exudes warmth and friendliness. The lively lounge area often fills with locals enjoying bingo, karaoke, and live music events, creating a convivial ambiance. The bar staff are known for their welcoming nature, contributing to a genuine community feel where visitors quickly feel at home.Food and Drink Offerings
Hole I' The Wa' Inn offers a range of affordable drinks, including well-kept beers and spirits at keen prices, with house measures notably generous. Food is served throughout the day until late evening, featuring hearty portions that provide excellent value. The menu caters to those seeking traditional pub fare, complementing the convivial drinking experience. The pub’s pricing and portion sizes make it accessible for a wide range of patrons, from casual drinkers to families.Social Hub and Entertainment
The pub is a vibrant social hub, especially on Thursday through Saturday nights, when it draws a lively crowd. Regular events such as karaoke and tea dances enliven the atmosphere, fostering interaction among patrons. The presence of a jukebox and live music sessions enhance the entertainment options, although volume levels have occasionally drawn mixed responses. Overall, the pub maintains a balance of fun and tradition, making it a favored spot for both locals and visitors.Connection to Local Culture
Hole I' The Wa' Inn is more than just a pub; it is a cultural landmark within Dumfries. It has historical ties to figures such as Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet, who frequented the area, adding a layer of literary heritage. The pub’s role as a gathering place for community events and its preservation of local traditions underscore its importance in Dumfries’ cultural landscape.Visitor Experience and Practical Details
Visitors can expect a friendly welcome, with attentive staff and a clientele that values good conversation and camaraderie. The pub’s central location makes it an easy stop during a day exploring Dumfries. While the interior shows signs of age, this only enhances its authentic pub atmosphere. Facilities include restrooms and seating areas, with food and drink options available throughout most of the day. The pub’s operating hours extend into the early morning on weekends, catering to night owls.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queensberry Monument
0.0 km
An elegant 18th-century stone column in Dumfries honoring the 3rd Duke of Queensberry and the town’s noble heritage.
Dumfries Historic Buildings Trust
0.2 km
Discover the architectural heritage of Dumfries at the Dumfries Historic Buildings Trust, where history is preserved for future generations.
Dumfries
0.5 km
Historic and accessible Dumfries Railway Station connects Scotland’s southwest with modern amenities and rich heritage.
Dumfries Tours
2.3 km
Explore Dumfries with immersive tours that blend history, culture, and stunning landscapes for an unforgettable experience.
Kingdom Scotland
3.9 km
Discover tranquility at Kingdom Scotland, a serene religious institution in Dumfries that invites spiritual reflection and community connection.
Fourmerkland Tower
7.8 km
Discover the tranquil charm and rich history of Fourmerkland Tower, a secluded 16th-century Scottish tower house near Dumfries.
Comyn's Tower
8.3 km
Explore Comyn's Tower near Dumfries, a medieval stronghold entwined with Scotland’s dramatic history and the legacy of the Comyn clan.
Isle Tower
9.1 km
Explore Isle Tower, a serene 17th-century Scottish tower house ruin guarding historic routes near Dumfries in picturesque Dumfries and Galloway.
Waterloo Monument
10.8 km
A 150-foot stone tower on Peniel Heugh, built to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo and offering panoramic views across the Scottish Borders and Solway Firth.
Wardlaw Hillfort
10.8 km
Explore the ancient moated triangular hillfort near Dumfries with panoramic views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Little Dalton Kirk
11.8 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Little Dalton Kirk, a medieval parish church nestled in tranquil Scottish countryside near Lockerbie.
Mossband Residential Park
13.8 km
Tranquil rural living with modern comforts and scenic views near Dumfries in the heart of Scotland’s countryside.
Drumlanrig Castle & Gardens
25.9 km
Explore the stunning Drumlanrig Castle & Gardens, a historical gem in Scotland boasting art, beautiful gardens, and rich heritage.
Orchardton Tower
26.1 km
Discover Scotland’s only free-standing circular tower house, a rare medieval fortress steeped in history and legend near Castle Douglas.
Threave Garden
26.8 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Threave Garden, a botanical paradise in Castle Douglas, Scotland, perfect for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dumfries Fountain
0.2 km
Discover the Dumfries Fountain, a stunning historical landmark in Dumfries, showcasing the town's rich culture and architectural beauty.
VisitScotland Dumfries iCentre
0.2 km
Friendly and knowledgeable visitor centre offering expert local advice and resources in the heart of Dumfries.
Robert Burns Centre
0.4 km
Discover the life and legacy of Robert Burns in Dumfries’ historic watermill, featuring immersive exhibits and a vibrant independent film theatre.
Devorgilla Bridge
0.4 km
Explore the captivating Devorgilla Bridge, an architectural masterpiece and historical landmark nestled in the heart of Dumfries, Scotland.
Old Bridge House
0.4 km
Explore Dumfries’ oldest house ingeniously built into a historic bridge, revealing centuries of local life and heritage by the River Nith.
Robert Burns House
0.4 km
Explore the intimate final home of Robert Burns in Dumfries, where Scotland’s national poet lived, wrote, and left a lasting legacy.
Dumfries & Galloway Family History Society
0.5 km
Discover your roots and explore South West Scotland’s rich heritage at the Dumfries & Galloway Family History Society Research Centre.
Dumfries Museum
0.5 km
Explore Dumfries’ rich heritage and the world’s oldest working camera obscura in this captivating museum of history and science.
St Michael’s and South Parish Church
0.6 km
Discover Dumfries’ oldest church, a historic landmark rich with medieval pillars, stunning stained glass, and the Burns’ Mausoleum.
Burns Mausoleum
0.6 km
Final resting place of Robert Burns in a historic Dumfries churchyard, surrounded by centuries of Scottish stories and monuments.
Dock Park
0.6 km
Historic riverside park in Dumfries with family-friendly play, mini-golf, bowling, and scenic picnic spots beside the River Nith.
HMP Dumfries
0.9 km
Historic 19th-century prison in Dumfries serving local courts and national sex offender population with a unique castellated architecture.
Cuckoo Bridge Retail Park
1.1 km
Dumfries’ main retail park with Tesco Extra, B&M, Dunelm, KFC, Costa and more – a practical, car‑friendly hub for everyday shopping and essentials.
Lockerbie Road off-road driving course
1.3 km
Experience the thrill of off-road driving on varied terrain with expert guidance at Dumfries’ premier off-road course.
Castledykes Park
1.6 km
Discover Dumfries’ historic green heart where medieval heritage meets tranquil gardens and vibrant wildlife habitats.
Essential places to dine
The Back Street
0.1 km
A vibrant hub for modern British cuisine and local drinks in the heart of Dumfries town centre, blending passion with a welcoming atmosphere.
N'Dulge
0.1 km
Discover N'Dulge: A lively bar & grill in Dumfries serving delicious meals and refreshing drinks in an inviting atmosphere.
Granary
0.1 km
A vibrant Dumfries pub blending cozy dining, lively weekend entertainment, and community spirit in a welcoming setting.
The Corner Eatery and Bar Store
0.2 km
A vibrant eatery in Dumfries serving fresh, homemade British cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and a charming beer garden.
La Dolce Vita
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Dumfries at La Dolce Vita, a charming and inclusive dining destination.
The New Oriental Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Chinese dining in the heart of Dumfries, known for fresh ingredients and friendly service in a cozy setting.
Truffles Bistro
0.2 km
Sophisticated yet cozy, Truffles Bistro in Dumfries serves exquisite local and international dishes in an inviting atmosphere.
Home Restaurant
0.2 km
A cozy family-run restaurant in Dumfries serving creative, locally sourced Mediterranean-inspired dishes with heartfelt hospitality.
The Bank Bar and Tapas
0.2 km
A vibrant, fully gluten-free tapas bar in Dumfries blending international flavors with a lively social atmosphere and inclusive dining.
The Globe Inn Dumfries
0.2 km
Historic 17th-century pub and Michelin Guide dining in Dumfries, blending Robert Burns heritage with modern Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky collection.
Cavens Arms
0.3 km
A welcoming Dumfries pub offering hearty traditional fare, a dedicated vegan menu, and a friendly atmosphere in the town centre.
Ivanos Italian Food
0.3 km
Casual Italian takeaway and pizza delivery in Dumfries, serving authentic flavors with a friendly local touch.
The Usual Place
0.3 km
A charming, community-focused café in a converted church offering fresh, ethical meals and warm hospitality in Dumfries.
Palmerston Cafe
0.5 km
A family-run Dumfries classic serving award-winning fish & chips and authentic Italian ice cream since 1969.
The Station Cafe Dumfries
0.6 km
A friendly, affordable cafe nestled in Dumfries Railway Station, perfect for a comforting breakfast or coffee break on your travels.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Maison Home & Gifts
0.0 km
Discover unique homewares and gifts with a personal touch at La Maison, Dumfries’ boutique of curated elegance and local charm.
ALTERNATIVE CENTRE(DUMFRIES)
0.0 km
Discover unique local crafts and memorable gifts at Dumfries’ welcoming Alternative Centre on Queensberry Street.
Vintage 109
0.1 km
Discover Vintage 109, a cozy Dumfries boutique brimming with unique, well-priced vintage and handcrafted homewares that add charm to any space.
The Treasure Trove Dumfries
0.1 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of Dumfries at The Treasure Trove.
Flourish
0.1 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local art at Flourish, Dumfries’ vibrant gift shop and creative studio on High Street.
Mountain Warehouse Dumfries
0.2 km
Your go-to store in Dumfries for quality outdoor clothing and gear at moderate prices, catering to adventurers of all ages and skill levels.
20 Castle Street
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and timeless antiques with expert interior design at 20 Castle Street, nestled in the historic heart of Dumfries.
Think Something Different
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and specialty products at Think Something Different, Dumfries’ go-to shop for eclectic finds and friendly service.
Circle Vintage
0.2 km
Explore the charm of Circle Vintage in Dumfries, your destination for unique and timeless fashion finds that celebrate the beauty of the past.
Loreburne Shopping Centre
0.3 km
A vibrant indoor shopping destination in the heart of Dumfries, blending high street brands with local charm and convenient amenities.
Bonmarché
0.3 km
Affordable and stylish ladies' fashion in the heart of Dumfries, with sizes 10-28 and expert styling advice.
The Fragrance Shop
0.3 km
Discover affordable luxury perfumes and beauty essentials at The Fragrance Shop, Dumfries’ premier scent destination in the Lorebourne Centre.
Unique Ukes in Dumfries
0.3 km
Discover handcrafted ukuleles and a vibrant music community at Unique Ukes, Dumfries’ premier ukulele shop on Gordon Street.
Plum Boutique
0.4 km
Independent women-owned fashion boutique in Dumfries offering curated, sustainable wardrobe staples and seasonal styles with a personal touch.
The Range, Dumfries
0.5 km
A versatile home and garden store in Dumfries offering extensive products for every lifestyle and living space.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hole I' The Wa' Inn
0.0 km
A historic and lively Dumfries pub offering authentic Scottish charm, good-value drinks, hearty food, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Venue Dumfries
0.1 km
A vibrant hub for live music, nightlife, and social gatherings in the heart of Dumfries.
The Imperial
0.1 km
A friendly, fair-priced bar in the heart of Dumfries, perfect for relaxed socializing and local vibes.
Chancers Night Club
0.1 km
Experience Dumfries nightlife at Chancers Night Club, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
The Dougie Arms
0.1 km
A cosy, welcoming pub in Dumfries known for its diverse ales, friendly atmosphere, and inclusive community spirit.
The Stag Bar
0.1 km
A cozy, friendly pub in Dumfries’ town centre offering craft ales and a welcoming atmosphere near the historic Midsteeple.
The Barrel
0.2 km
A friendly, traditional pub in Dumfries offering quality pints and a lively, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Dickies Bar
0.2 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and local craft beers in the cozy, lively setting of Dickies Bar in Dumfries.
The Queensberry
0.2 km
A bright, comfortable bar and hotel in central Dumfries offering relaxed Scottish hospitality and cozy accommodation.
Coach & Horses Inn
0.2 km
Historic 1801 pub in Dumfries offering authentic Scottish charm, quality cask ales, and lively live music in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Lantern
0.4 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming pub in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, live music, and a lively beer garden in a warm, traditional setting.
Salutation Inn
0.4 km
A friendly, historic pub in Dumfries Market Square known for excellent pints and a welcoming atmosphere.
Devorgilla Lounge Bar
0.5 km
A cozy, dog-friendly lounge bar in Dumfries offering friendly service, relaxed vibes, and affordable drinks in the heart of Market Square.
Greens Sports Bar
0.7 km
Lively sports bar in Dumfries with big screens, great drinks, pool tables, and a welcoming community vibe for fans and locals alike.
The Riverside Bar
0.7 km
A friendly riverside pub in Dumfries offering diverse craft beers, scenic views, and a relaxed atmosphere beside Dock Park.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Railway Social Club
0.5 km
A friendly, community-focused social club in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, lively events, and a welcoming atmosphere near the town centre.
Black Box Music Institute
47.0 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
47.1 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Club Britannia
47.5 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Secret Carlisle
47.7 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
The Galloway Bar
57.7 km
Discover the charm of Wigtown at The Galloway Bar, where locals gather for great drinks and unforgettable experiences.
Square One
65.1 km
Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.
Base Nightclub
65.5 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
The Border Club
65.8 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Border Club, a friendly social hub in Hawick, Scotland, perfect for travelers seeking community spirit.
Bridge Inn
69.9 km
Discover the scenic beauty and warm hospitality at Bridge Inn, Peebles' favorite pub overlooking the River Tweed.
The Neidpath Inn
69.9 km
Discover The Neidpath Inn, a vibrant bar and bed & breakfast in Peebles, offering delicious cuisine, live music, and a cozy atmosphere for all visitors.
The County
70.0 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub and restaurant in Peebles offering hearty meals, great drinks, and warm Scottish hospitality in a central setting.
Union Club
70.0 km
A friendly, community-run social club with snooker and events, offering a welcoming and affordable night out in Innerleithen.
The Central Bar
70.1 km
Experience the heart of Peebles at The Central Bar, where local charm and refreshing drinks await every visitor.
The Cross Keys - Peebles
70.1 km
Historic inn and cozy hotel in Peebles town centre, blending traditional charm with modern comfort and a lively pub atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Quirky
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
