The Gunsmiths Bar
The Gunsmiths Bar, Inverness
Playback Bar & Restaurant, Inverness
A lively four-story bar and restaurant in Inverness offering gourmet burgers, exclusive craft beers, rooftop vibes, and fun social games.
Playback is a vibrant four-story bar and restaurant located on Academy Street in Inverness, renowned for its gourmet burgers, craft beers, and lively rooftop terrace. This expansive venue combines excellent food and drink with a variety of social games and activities, including axe throwing and beer pong, making it a top destination for both dining and entertainment in the city.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Playback
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
27-31 Academy St, Inverness, IV1 1JN, GB
Duration: 1 to 4 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Monday
12 pm-12 am
Tuesday
12 pm-12 am
Wednesday
12 pm-12 am
Thursday
12 pm-12 am
Friday
12 pm-1 am
Saturday
12 pm-1 am
Sunday
12 pm-12 am
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Getting There
Public Bus
Take local Inverness bus routes serving Academy Street, with frequent service every 10-20 minutes from the city center. The journey typically takes 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost around £1.50-£3.00. Buses are wheelchair accessible but may be crowded during peak times.
Taxi
Taxis from Inverness city center to Playback take approximately 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £5 and £10. Taxis offer door-to-door service and are available 24/7.
Walking
If you are staying nearby in central Inverness, walking to Playback is feasible within 15-25 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets. The route is wheelchair accessible but may be less suitable in heavy rain or winter weather.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
Restrooms
Drink Options
Food Options
Seating Areas
Information BoardsLocal tips
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Try the exclusive Jubel Peach craft beer, only available at Playback in Scotland.
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Reserve a spot on the rooftop terrace for a vibrant atmosphere and great city views.
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Join in the axe throwing or beer pong games for a unique and fun experience.
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Visit on Friday or Saturday nights to enjoy extended hours until 1 AM.
Playback location weather suitability
Catch the right light and the right mood, whether you want a bright city moment or a more cinematic evening visit.
Discover more about Playback
A Dynamic Social Hub in Inverness
Playback Bar & Restaurant stands out as a premier social venue in Inverness, housed within a spacious four-story building on Academy Street. Spanning approximately 11,000 square feet, it offers a lively atmosphere where food, drink, and entertainment blend seamlessly. The venue is designed to cater to groups and individuals seeking a fun, interactive night out, with a focus on creating memorable experiences through both its culinary offerings and engaging activities.Culinary Excellence with a Local Twist
The kitchen at Playback is celebrated for its gourmet burgers and wings, which have earned it a reputation as one of the best burger spots in Inverness. The menu features a variety of hearty dishes, including vegan options, paired with an impressive selection of craft beers and signature cocktails. Notably, Playback is the first bar in Scotland to stock the exclusive Jubel Peach craft beer, adding a unique local flavor to its beverage lineup.Entertainment and Activities for All
Beyond dining, Playback offers a broad range of games and activities that set it apart from typical bars. Visitors can enjoy axe throwing, pool, shuffleboard, beer pong, table tennis, and foosball, making it a lively venue for friendly competition and social interaction. The rooftop terrace is a highlight, providing a vibrant space to relax, socialize, and enjoy the city views, especially popular during sunny days and warm evenings.Atmosphere and Design
The interior combines modern and industrial design elements to create a trendy yet comfortable environment. With multiple floors dedicated to different experiences, Playback balances energetic spaces for games and socializing with cozy areas for dining and conversation. The rooftop terrace adds an open-air dimension, enhancing the venue’s appeal as a casual yet stylish destination.Accessibility and Amenities
Playback is wheelchair accessible and dog friendly, welcoming a diverse clientele. It offers free Wi-Fi, accepts digital payments, and provides full bar service. Operating daily from noon until midnight or 1 AM on weekends, it caters to both early diners and late-night revelers. The venue’s location in central Inverness makes it easily reachable by public transport and taxi, with nearby parking options.A Vibrant Gathering Place in the Scottish Highlands
Playback Bar & Restaurant has quickly become a cultural and social landmark in Inverness, appealing to locals and visitors alike. Its combination of quality food, exclusive drinks, and engaging entertainment creates a unique urban experience in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, perfect for casual outings, celebrations, and weekend nights out.A brief summary to Playback
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Plan around the quieter times
A quick look at seasonal patterns and peak visiting hours.
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