Rocpool Restaurant: Contemporary Scottish Dining by the River Ness
Stylish riverside dining in Inverness serving fresh, globally inspired Scottish cuisine with warm, attentive service.
Rocpool Restaurant in Inverness offers a stylish dining experience with fresh, globally inspired dishes crafted from local Scottish ingredients. Set on the picturesque banks of the River Ness, this family-owned eatery blends modern British cuisine with international flavors, served in a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. Known for its attentive service, creative menus, and prime riverside location, Rocpool is a top choice for food lovers seeking quality and ambiance in the Highlands.
A brief summary to Rocpool
- 1 Ness Walk, Inverness, IV3 5NE, GB
- +441463717274
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Luxury
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-2:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-2:30 pm
Local tips
- Book your table well in advance, especially during summer, as Rocpool is often fully booked.
- Try the Shetland monkfish with risotto or Isle of Skye crab starters for a true taste of local seafood.
- Enjoy a cocktail featuring seasonal ingredients like blood orange or rhubarb, expertly crafted by the bar team.
- Visit during quieter lunch hours for a more relaxed atmosphere and attentive service.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Rocpool location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Rocpool
A Culinary Gem on the River Ness
Nestled on the banks of the River Ness, Rocpool Restaurant has been a beloved fixture in Inverness since its establishment in 2002. This family-owned venue combines the charm of a riverside setting with a contemporary and vibrant dining atmosphere. The location offers diners scenic views of the river, enhancing the overall experience with a tranquil yet lively backdrop. Its proximity to Inverness city centre makes it an accessible and attractive destination for both locals and visitors exploring the Scottish Highlands.Innovative Dishes Rooted in Scottish Ingredients
Rocpool’s menu showcases a modern British style that embraces local Scottish produce while incorporating global culinary influences. Signature dishes include Shetland monkfish with Milanese risotto and 'nduja-roasted prawns, as well as a roast fillet of wild North Sea halibut served with a rich shellfish bisque risotto. Starters such as Isle of Skye crab with curried mayonnaise and Granny Smith apple highlight the kitchen’s creativity and commitment to fresh, balanced flavors. The menu is thoughtfully curated with around eight starters and mains, ensuring quality over quantity and offering something for every palate.Atmosphere and Service: Stylish Yet Welcoming
The restaurant exudes a bright, colourful brasserie-style vibe with an informal and friendly ambiance. The staff are known for their warm, attentive service and knowledgeable recommendations, including expertly paired wines and cocktails. Owner Steven Devlin’s engaging presence adds a personal touch, creating a welcoming environment that feels both sophisticated and approachable. While the venue can be lively and bustling, especially during peak times, the overall experience remains enjoyable and memorable.Drinks and Dining Experience
Rocpool boasts a carefully curated wine list and masterfully crafted cocktails, complementing the culinary offerings perfectly. Guests often praise the balance and presentation of both food and drinks, with standout cocktails featuring seasonal ingredients like blood orange and rhubarb. The dessert menu offers classic yet refined options such as lemon meringue pie and crème brûlée, often with a seasonal twist. Dining here is not just a meal but a full sensory experience, combining taste, sight, and sound with smooth bossa nova jazz setting the tone.Practical Information and Visitor Tips
The restaurant operates from Tuesday to Saturday with lunch and dinner services, closing on Sundays and Mondays. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during summer months, due to its popularity and limited seating. Prices reflect its upscale positioning, with lunch menus around £26.95 for two courses and a la carte mains ranging up to £39.95. The venue is family-friendly and wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors seeking a premium dining experience in Inverness.Rocpool’s Place in Inverness’ Culinary Scene
Rocpool stands out as one of Inverness’s premier dining destinations, blending local heritage with international flair. Its longevity and consistent quality have earned it a reputation as a must-visit restaurant in the Highlands. Whether you are on a North Coast 500 road trip or exploring the city, Rocpool offers a refined yet relaxed setting to enjoy Scotland’s finest ingredients with a cosmopolitan twist.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rocpool
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Savor the finest seafood and local dishes at Rocpool, Inverness' premier restaurant with stunning riverside views.
Prime | Steak & Seafood
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Indulge in a luxurious dining experience at Prime | Steak & Seafood, where exquisite flavors of land and sea meet in the heart of Inverness.
Inverness Bike Tours
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Experience the stunning landscapes and rich history of Inverness with guided bike tours through the Scottish Highlands.
Highland Historical Home
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Discover the Highland Historical Home in Inverness, where Scottish heritage meets modern comfort in a charming holiday apartment rental.
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.
Urquhart's Restaurant
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Discover the flavors of Scotland at Urquhart's Restaurant, where British and European cuisine meet warm Highland hospitality.
Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa
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Elegant riverside hotel blending historic charm with modern spa comforts in the heart of Inverness.
Premier Inn Inverness Centre River Ness
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Comfortable riverside hotel in central Inverness with friendly service, modern rooms, and easy access to city attractions.
Johnny Foxes
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings at Johnny Foxes, the must-visit pub in Inverness for tourists seeking local flavor and fun.
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.
Bella Italia - Inverness
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bella Italia in Inverness, where every dish is a celebration of flavor, warmth, and hospitality.
Mercure Inverness Hotel
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Stylish 4-star hotel on Inverness’s scenic River Ness, blending Highland hospitality with modern comfort and vibrant city centre convenience.
Sign Patrick Sellar
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Explore Sign Patrick Sellar in Inverness, a historical site reflecting the rich and complex heritage of the Scottish Highlands.
Inverness Big Ben
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Explore the Inverness Big Ben, a historical landmark embodying the spirit and charm of Scotland's picturesque city.
Caledonian Gifts & Souvenirs
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Explore Caledonian Gifts & Souvenirs in Inverness for unique Scottish-themed gifts and authentic souvenirs that capture the spirit of Scotland.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Scottish Kiltmaker Visitor Centre
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Discover Scotland’s iconic national dress and craftsmanship at Inverness’s unique kilt-making workshop and visitor centre.
Inbhir Nis
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Charming B&B with stunning castle views, warm hospitality, and hearty homemade breakfasts in the heart of Inverness.
St Mary's Roman Catholic Church
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Historic Victorian Catholic church in Inverness, blending rich architecture with a unique cultural and spiritual heritage.
Gellions Bar
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Discover the lively atmosphere of Gellions Bar in Inverness, where great drinks, delicious food, and live music create unforgettable memories.
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.
Inverness town
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A historic Gothic Revival church and tranquil riverside gardens at the cultural 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.
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.
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.
Young's Auld Sweetie Shop
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Step into Young's Auld Sweetie Shop for a nostalgic journey through retro sweets and warm Highland hospitality in the heart of Inverness.
The Three Virtues
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Historic Victorian-era statues of Faith, Hope, and Charity set in a tranquil riverside garden in the heart of Inverness.
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.
The Junction Church Inverness
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Contemporary evangelical worship in a historic church building at the heart of Inverness.
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.
Browns Gallery
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Contemporary Scottish art in an elegant space beneath Inverness Castle—a curator's vision of artistic integrity.
Essential places to dine
Encore
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Experience hearty Scottish flavors and warm hospitality at Encore, Inverness’s vibrant restaurant and bar on Young Street.
The Kitchen Restaurant
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Savor inventive modern British cuisine with stunning River Ness views in a stylish, family-run Inverness restaurant.
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.
Coyote Burger
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Savor premium burgers and vibrant vibes with scenic River Ness views in the heart of Inverness city centre.
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.
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.
Tiger on The Wall
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Authentic Indian and Asian flavors served daily in the heart of Inverness at Tiger on The Wall, Strathness House’s celebrated restaurant.
Kool Runnings
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Experience vibrant Jamaican flavors and lively Caribbean vibes in the heart of Inverness at Kool Runnings.
The Brasserie
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A comfortable and centrally located brasserie in Inverness offering quality food and a relaxed atmosphere from noon till late.
Comfort Foods
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Cozy café in Inverness serving hearty homemade meals with fresh local ingredients and generous portions all day long.
Cafe 1
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Experience the best of Highland cuisine with locally sourced dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of Inverness.
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.
La Tortilla
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Experience authentic Spanish tapas and paella in Inverness’s oldest and most beloved tapas bar, blending vibrant flavors with Highland charm.
Aye Eat
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Experience bold Scottish flavors and warm Highland hospitality in the heart of Inverness at Aye Eat.
McBain’s by the River
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A cozy riverside restaurant in Inverness serving exquisite Highland dishes with fresh local produce and warm family hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Highland House of Fraser
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Discover authentic Scottish Highland dress and witness traditional kilt making at Highland House of Fraser in Inverness, a family-run heritage landmark.
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.
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 Whisky Shop
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Discover Scotland’s finest whiskies and expert tastings in the heart of Inverness at The Whisky Shop.
Judith Glue
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Discover authentic Orkney knitwear and Scottish gifts in a charming Inverness boutique blending heritage and style near the River Ness.
Primark
0.2 km
Discover budget-friendly fashion and homeware in Inverness city centre at Primark’s welcoming multi-floor store.
Edinburgh Woollen Mill
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Discover authentic Scottish knitwear and heritage fashion at Edinburgh Woollen Mill in the heart of Inverness.
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.
Bluebells Of The Glen Souvenirs & Gifts Shop
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Discover unique Highland treasures and charming gifts at Bluebells Of The Glen, a cozy souvenir shop in the heart of Inverness.
Gifts & Souvenirs SALE
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Authentic Scottish gifts and Highland treasures in the heart of Inverness, offering unique souvenirs and traditional clan items with guaranteed value.
Thistle Do Nicely
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Authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Inverness, where warm hospitality meets curated Highland heritage.
Rouge Boutiques
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Discover personalized style and expert fittings at Rouge Boutiques, Inverness’ destination for elegant womenswear and exceptional service.
Triquerta Crafts
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Discover handcrafted Scottish jewellery and heritage treasures in the charming Victorian Market of Inverness.
The Works
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Affordable arts, crafts, books, and stationery in the heart of Inverness’s bustling High Street.
The Merchant
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Discover Inverness’s hidden antique gem blending vintage treasures with modern charm on Greig Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Wee Bar
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A cosy Inverness cocktail bar above Ness Walk, famed for masterful drinks, Highland hospitality, and a warm, intimate vibe.
Glenalbyn Bar
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Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with fine whiskies, live music, and a cozy atmosphere at Glenalbyn Bar in Inverness.
Revolution Inverness
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Trendy city-centre bar and restaurant in Inverness known for lively vibes, cocktails, and comfort food favorites.
Lauders
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Experience the vibrant spirit of Inverness at Lauders Bar, where tradition meets lively nightlife and warm Scottish hospitality.
Caledonian
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A lively and affordable Scottish pub on Inverness High Street, perfect for classic pub fare and spirited local atmosphere.
Highlander
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Experience daily live Scottish music, authentic cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere at Highlander Bar, Inverness’s cultural heart.
The Malt Room
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Discover Inverness’s cozy whisky sanctuary with expert hosts, rare malts, and a warm, intimate atmosphere perfect for savoring every dram.
MacCallums Bar
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Experience authentic Scottish hospitality, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere at MacCallums Bar, Inverness’s beloved traditional pub.
R&Bs
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A lively family-run bar and restaurant in Inverness offering local flavors, gluten-free dishes, and the Highlands’ only karaoke nights.
Market Bar
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Experience authentic Scottish nightlife with live music, local ales, and a welcoming vibe at Inverness’s Market Bar on Church Street.
The Gunsmiths Bar
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A lively Inverness bar with historic charm, mezzanine views, affordable drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere near the River Ness.
Playback
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A lively four-story bar and restaurant in Inverness offering gourmet burgers, exclusive craft beers, rooftop vibes, and fun social games.
The Tooth & Claw
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Inverness’s vibrant rock and live music bar offering rustic charm, local brews, and an inclusive, lively atmosphere.
The Walrus & Corkscrew
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Discover Inverness’ cozy wine bar with over 200 wines and artisanal Highland charcuterie platters in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Imperial
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A lively traditional Scottish pub and sports bar in Inverness, offering great drinks, hearty pub grub, and nonstop sports action on big screens.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Private Eyes Inverness
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Experience Inverness’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, where stylish decor meets great music and a welcoming party atmosphere.
The Ross Shire Club
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Experience Dingwall’s vibrant nightlife with a welcoming vibe, BYOB policy, and lively social scene at The Ross Shire Club.
Xplosive Discos
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.
Seaforth Club
24.7 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant social heart at Seaforth Club, where community spirit meets lively nightlife in a welcoming setting.
Jackos Bar & Diner
24.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill options at Jackos Bar & Diner in Nairn, perfect for families and sports fans alike.
the Balavoulin
39.6 km
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
39.6 km
Discover The Winking Owl in Aviemore for a delightful experience of craft ales, local flavors, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Vault
39.9 km
Experience Aviemore’s vibrant nightlife at The Vault, a lively nightclub blending modern beats with Highland charm every weekend.
Mambos
40.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Mambos in Aviemore, where local charm meets a lively bar atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.
The Aviemore Inn pub and grill
40.7 km
Experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality at The Aviemore Inn, the perfect pub and grill in the heart of Aviemore for travelers and locals alike.
Woodshed Bar
42.1 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Woodshed Bar in Aviemore, where delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere await you.
SUIE BAR
42.6 km
Discover Suie Bar: A Heartwarming Scottish Retreat in Kincraig, Perfect for Relaxation and Local Flavors.
The Pine Marten Bar
46.9 km
Experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality at The Pine Marten Bar, where delicious food and breathtaking views combine for an unforgettable visit.
Moray Jazz Club
57.5 km
Discover the vibrant live music scene at Moray Jazz Club in Elgin, where talented musicians create unforgettable performances in an intimate setting.
Shmelgin
57.5 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Nepal at Shmelgin, Elgin's premier Nepalese restaurant, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious dishes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
