The Castle Tavern: Historic Scottish Pub with Castle Views in Inverness
Historic Scottish pub with stunning views of Inverness Castle, serving traditional fare and local ales in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Castle Tavern is a beloved traditional Scottish pub located at 1 View Place in Inverness, offering stunning views of Inverness Castle and the River Ness. Known for its warm atmosphere, excellent local ales, and hearty Scottish fare like haggis and Cullen Skink, it features a popular beer garden and an upstairs restaurant with seating for 28. The pub welcomes families and pets, blending historic charm with lively social spaces.
A brief summary to The Castle Tavern
- 1 View Pl, Inverness, IV2 4SA, GB
- +441463718178
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book a table in advance, especially on weekends and during warmer months, to avoid waiting.
- Try traditional dishes like haggis, Cullen Skink, and fish and chips for an authentic Scottish experience.
- Enjoy the beer garden for scenic views of Inverness Castle while sampling local ales.
- The upstairs restaurant offers a quieter dining experience with elevated views and seats up to 28 guests.
- Dogs are welcome in the bar and beer garden areas but not permitted inside the restaurant.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus services from Inverness city center to the stop near Inverness Castle; the journey typically takes 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day with a single fare costing around £1.50-£3.00. The pub is a short walk from the bus stop.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Inverness railway station to The Castle Tavern takes approximately 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing around £6-£10. Taxis are readily available at the station and in the city center.
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Walking
If you are staying in central Inverness, The Castle Tavern is accessible on foot within 15-25 minutes from major city hotels. The route is mostly flat and suitable for most walkers, with some cobbled streets near the castle.
The Castle Tavern location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about The Castle Tavern
A Storied Scottish Pub in the Heart of Inverness
Nestled beside the iconic Inverness Castle, The Castle Tavern is a historic family-run pub that embodies the warmth and tradition of Scottish hospitality. Its location at 1 View Place offers patrons breathtaking views of the castle and the flowing River Ness, making it a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. The pub’s long-standing presence in the city adds to its charm, serving as a cultural touchstone where history and community converge.Authentic Scottish Fare and Local Ales
The Castle Tavern is renowned for its menu of traditional Scottish dishes, featuring classics such as haggis, neeps and tatties, Cullen Skink, and fish and chips. The kitchen emphasizes seasonal menus crafted with local produce, served from midday until late evening. Complementing the food is a selection of local Scottish ales and cask beers, enhancing the authentic pub experience. The food presentation elevates typical pub fare, reflecting a dedication to quality and flavor.Atmosphere and Social Spaces
The pub’s interior combines a cozy, warmly decorated ambiance with a lively, friendly atmosphere. Its beer garden is a popular outdoor space where guests can relax while enjoying panoramic views of the castle grounds. Upstairs, the restaurant seats up to 28 guests, providing an elevated dining experience with scenic vistas. The Castle Tavern is dog-friendly in the bar and beer garden areas, making it inclusive for pet owners. The staff are known for their attentive and cheerful service, contributing to the welcoming vibe.Events and Private Bookings
Beyond regular dining, The Castle Tavern offers private event bookings in its upstairs restaurant, suitable for family celebrations, corporate gatherings, and special occasions. The venue provides a dedicated private bar and can tailor menus to suit various budgets. Licensed to serve until 1 AM, it supports both daytime and evening functions, making it a versatile location for memorable events in Inverness.Location and Accessibility
Situated in central Inverness, The Castle Tavern is easily accessible and close to major landmarks. While there is no on-site parking, nearby public car parks and good public transport links make visiting convenient. The pub operates daily from noon, with extended hours on weekends, catering to both casual daytime visitors and evening crowds. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak times and warmer months, to secure seating.A Cultural Hub for Visitors and Locals Alike
The Castle Tavern represents more than just a place to eat and drink; it is a vibrant social hub that showcases Scottish culture through its food, drink, and setting. Its proximity to Inverness Castle and the River Ness positions it as a prime spot for those exploring the city’s heritage. Whether enjoying a quiet meal, a lively night out, or a private event, visitors experience a genuine taste of Highland hospitality.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Start/Finish of Great Glen way, Inverness
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Redcliffe Hotel, Restaurant and Beer Garden
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Ness Bank Church
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Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments
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Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa
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Historic & Scenic Tours Inverness
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Inverness Scotland
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The Botanic House
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Inverness Bike Tours
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Bella Italia - Inverness
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Prime | Steak & Seafood
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The Ness Bridge, Inverness
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Historic crossing over the River Ness offering panoramic city views and access to Inverness’s scenic riverside and heritage sites.
Highland Apartments by Mansley
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Luxury serviced apartments with stunning river and castle views in the heart of Inverness, blending modern comfort with Highland charm.
Rocpool
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Savor the finest seafood and local dishes at Rocpool, Inverness' premier restaurant with stunning riverside views.
Inverness Big Ben
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Unmissable attractions to see
Inverness town
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A historic Gothic Revival church and tranquil riverside gardens at the cultural heart of Inverness.
Flora Macdonald statue
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A striking tribute to Scotland’s heroine Flora Macdonald, overlooking Inverness Castle and the River Ness with timeless historical significance.
Browns Gallery
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Contemporary Scottish art in an elegant space beneath Inverness Castle—a curator's vision of artistic integrity.
Inverness Castle
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Historic Inverness Castle, a red sandstone landmark overlooking the River Ness, is transforming into a vibrant Highland cultural experience in 2025.
Uilebheist Distillery & Brewery
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Discover Inverness’s pioneering sustainable brewstillery crafting artisan whisky and fresh craft beers on the scenic River Ness.
HMP Inverness
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Scotland’s smallest local prison, blending historic architecture with modern rehabilitation in the heart of Inverness.
Castle Gallery
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Contemporary art gallery showcasing Scottish and British artists in the heart of Inverness.
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
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Discover Highland history, culture, and art in the heart of Inverness with free entry and engaging exhibits for all ages.
Inverness Cathedral, dedicated to St Andrew
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Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Inverness Cathedral, dedicated to St Andrew, an architectural marvel and serene spiritual haven in Scotland's Highlands.
Inbhir Nis
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Happy Tours Scotland Ltd
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Inverness Town House
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A majestic Victorian Gothic landmark at Inverness’s heart, blending rich history with vibrant civic and cultural life.
Gellions Bar
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The Steeple
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Discover Inverness’s iconic Georgian steeple, a historic landmark and museum that reveals the city’s rich judicial and cultural heritage.
Race for life
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Inverness’s largest park, blending rich Scottish traditions, vibrant sports, and family-friendly outdoor attractions beside the River Ness.
Essential places to dine
La Tortilla
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Cafe 1
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Tiger on The Wall
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Number 27 Bar and Kitchen
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Experience the best of Scottish cuisine at Number 27 Bar and Kitchen in Inverness – where every meal tells a story.
The Waterside Restaurant
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Scenic riverside dining in Inverness serving sustainable, locally sourced Scottish cuisine with handcrafted spirits from the adjacent distillery.
nar
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Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors with warm hospitality in the heart of Inverness at Nar, a cozy and highly regarded restaurant.
Zizzi - Inverness
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Experience vibrant Italian flavors and fresh pasta delights in the heart of Inverness with a welcoming atmosphere and scenic river views.
Contrast Brasserie Inverness
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Stylish riverside dining with fresh, modern Scottish and Pan-Asian cuisine in Inverness’s renowned Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel.
Encore
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Experience hearty Scottish flavors and warm hospitality at Encore, Inverness’s vibrant restaurant and bar on Young Street.
Aye Eat
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Experience bold Scottish flavors and warm Highland hospitality in the heart of Inverness at Aye Eat.
Coyote Burger
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Kool Runnings
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Hou Hou Mei
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Discover Hou Hou Mei, Inverness’s vibrant Asian fusion restaurant blending Thai, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese flavors with generous vegan options.
The Kitchen Restaurant
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Comfort Foods
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rouge Boutiques
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Judith Glue
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James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
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Discover authentic Scottish woollens and heritage craftsmanship at James Pringle Weavers in the heart of Inverness.
The Whisky Shop
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Discover Scotland’s finest whiskies and expert tastings in the heart of Inverness at The Whisky Shop.
Edinburgh Woollen Mill
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Discover authentic Scottish knitwear and heritage fashion at Edinburgh Woollen Mill in the heart of Inverness.
Primark
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Discover budget-friendly fashion and homeware in Inverness city centre at Primark’s welcoming multi-floor store.
House of Highlands
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Discover authentic Scottish Highland dress and handcrafted kilts at Inverness’s House of Highlands, a cultural gem in the heart of the Highlands.
Thistle Do Nicely
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Authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Inverness, where warm hospitality meets curated Highland heritage.
GLENEAGLES OF SCOTLAND
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A refined Scottish clothing shop in Inverness, specialising in premium knitwear and country-style fashion with a Highland soul.
The Works
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Affordable arts, crafts, books, and stationery in the heart of Inverness’s bustling High Street.
The Highlander Store
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Bluebells Of The Glen Souvenirs & Gifts Shop
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The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
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Gifts & Souvenirs SALE
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Highland House of Fraser
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Wee Bar
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The Piano and Whisky Bar Inverness
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Glenalbyn Bar
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Revolution Inverness
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Caledonian
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Lauders
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Experience the vibrant spirit of Inverness at Lauders Bar, where tradition meets lively nightlife and warm Scottish hospitality.
MacCallums Bar
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The Tooth & Claw
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The Gunsmiths Bar
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Highlander
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The Malt Room
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The Imperial
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Market Bar
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R&Bs
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Playback
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Private Eyes Inverness
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The Ross Shire Club
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Xplosive Discos
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Seaforth Club
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Jackos Bar & Diner
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the Balavoulin
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A lively, dog-friendly pub with hearty meals and cozy rooms, perfectly placed for exploring Aviemore and the Cairngorms.
The Winking Owl, Craft Ale Pub & Bar
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The Vault
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Mambos
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The Aviemore Inn pub and grill
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Woodshed Bar
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SUIE BAR
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The Pine Marten Bar
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Moray Jazz Club
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Shmelgin
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
