The Imperial, Inverness Travel Guide

Free Guide: A lively traditional Scottish pub and sports bar in Inverness, offering great drinks, hearty pub grub, and nonstop sports action on big screens.

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The Imperial

A brief summary of The Imperial

A lively traditional Scottish pub and sports bar in Inverness, offering great drinks, hearty pub grub, and nonstop sports action on big screens.

Located in the heart of Inverness at 1 Academy Street, The Imperial is a lively sports bar and traditional Scottish pub known for its welcoming atmosphere, extensive drink selection including Scottish whiskies and gins, and multiple big screens showing a variety of sports. It offers great value drinks, pub grub, and a unique on-demand karaoke system, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

1–3 hrsTime to spend
$$Mid-range
IndoorSetting
5 / 5Mobile signal

On-site amenities

  • Restrooms
  • Drink options
  • Food options
  • Seating areas
  • Trash bins
  • Information boards
4.4 Very good · 518 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Mon–Sat9 am–12 am
  • Sun11 am–11 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
1 Academy St, Inverness IV1 1JN
Phone
Website

Getting there

Bus

Take local Inverness bus services that stop near Academy Street; journey times vary from 10 to 25 minutes depending on starting point. Buses run frequently throughout the day with single fares around £2 to £4. Note that service frequency may reduce late at night.

Taxi

Local taxi services provide direct access to The Imperial from anywhere in Inverness, typically within 5 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £5 and £10. Taxi ranks are located nearby for easy pickup after your visit.

Walking

If you are staying in central Inverness, The Imperial is accessible on foot within 10 to 20 minutes over mostly flat, paved streets. The route is wheelchair accessible and well-lit in the evenings.

Discover more about The Imperial

A Hub of Inverness Social Life

The Imperial stands as one of Inverness’ most recognized institutions, perfectly blending the charm of a traditional Scottish pub with the energy of a modern sports bar. Situated centrally on Academy Street, this venue has cultivated a loyal base of regulars while attracting visitors from across the globe. Its friendly, welcoming atmosphere invites guests to relax and enjoy a genuine Scottish pub experience.

Passion for Sports and Entertainment

Known for its love of sport, The Imperial broadcasts a wide range of events including football, rugby, horse racing, tennis, and golf. Multiple large screens ensure that patrons never miss a moment of the action, creating a lively and engaging environment. Adding to its entertainment offerings, the pub features an innovative on-demand karaoke system, allowing guests to sing their favorite tunes any night of the week.

Culinary and Drink Offerings

The Imperial serves a variety of delicious pub grub suitable for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Its drink menu boasts a huge selection of Scottish whiskies and gins, alongside great-value drink offers that appeal to all tastes. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick drink or a full meal, the pub provides a satisfying and authentic Scottish dining experience.

Accessibility and Amenities

The pub is fully accessible with level access and accessible toilets, ensuring comfort for all visitors. Free WiFi is available, and payment options include cash, debit, and credit cards. The nearby taxi rank facilitates easy onward travel, making The Imperial a convenient and comfortable stop in the city.

Atmosphere and Community

The Imperial is renowned for its vibrant yet friendly vibe, often described as a place where some of Inverness’ biggest characters gather. It strikes a balance between a casual local haunt and a lively venue for visitors, offering an honest welcome and a fun time. Its combination of traditional pub warmth and modern entertainment makes it a unique social destination.

Hours and Practical Information

Open daily from 9:00 AM, The Imperial closes at 11:00 PM Sunday through Thursday, extending to 1:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. This schedule accommodates early risers, daytime visitors, and late-night revelers alike, providing ample opportunity to enjoy its offerings.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Best time to go

Quietest: Jan, Feb & Mar · at 2am or at 3am or at 4am

How busy it gets, month by month Estimated
  1. Jan: 60% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  2. Feb: 50% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  3. Mar: 60% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  4. Apr: 70% of the busiest month
  5. May: 80% of the busiest month
  6. Jun: 90% of the busiest month
  7. Jul: 100% of the busiest month
  8. Aug: 100% of the busiest month
  9. Sep: 80% of the busiest month
  10. Oct: 70% of the busiest month
  11. Nov: 60% of the busiest month
  12. Dec: 70% of the busiest month
How busy it gets, hour by hour Estimated
  1. 12am: 30% of the busiest hour
  2. 1am: 20% of the busiest hour
  3. 2am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  4. 3am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  5. 4am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  6. 5am: 10% of the busiest hour
  7. 6am: 10% of the busiest hour
  8. 7am: 20% of the busiest hour
  9. 8am: 40% of the busiest hour
  10. 9am: 60% of the busiest hour
  11. 10am: 70% of the busiest hour
  12. 11am: 70% of the busiest hour
  13. 12pm: 80% of the busiest hour
  14. 1pm: 80% of the busiest hour
  15. 2pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  16. 3pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  17. 4pm: 80% of the busiest hour
  18. 5pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  19. 6pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  20. 7pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  21. 8pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  22. 9pm: 80% of the busiest hour
  23. 10pm: 60% of the busiest hour
  24. 11pm: 50% of the busiest hour

Busy times are Evendo estimates for a typical year, to help you plan. Actual crowds vary with events, school holidays and the weather.

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