Merchant Bar: A Cozy Highland Retreat in Portree
Experience authentic Isle of Skye hospitality with local ales, fine whiskies, and hearty Highland fare in the cozy Merchant Bar of Portree.
Nestled within the Bosville Hotel in Portree, the Merchant Bar offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with a blend of traditional Scottish charm and contemporary touches. Known for its extensive selection of local ales, Scottish gins, and single malts, it pairs hearty, locally sourced cuisine with a lively yet relaxed ambiance. Open daily from 4 PM to 11 PM, this bar is a favored spot for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Isle of Skye hospitality and flavors.
A brief summary to Merchant Bar
- 13 Bosville Terrace, Portree, IV51 9DG, GB
- +441478612846
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 4 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 4 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 4 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 4 pm-11 pm
- Friday 4 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 4 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 4 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Try the local Isle of Skye Brewery ales and the award-winning Thistly Cross farmhouse cider on tap.
- Book ahead for dinner at the Dulse & Brose restaurant to enjoy seasonal, locally sourced Scottish cuisine.
- Visit during evening hours from 4 PM to 11 PM to experience the lively atmosphere and occasional live music.
- Ask the staff for recommendations on single malt whiskies to sample the island’s finest spirits.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Merchant Bar location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Merchant Bar
A Historic Gathering Place with Highland Character
The Merchant Bar, located at 13 Bosville Terrace in the heart of Portree, Isle of Skye, occupies a space once used as the village bank. This heritage adds a unique character to the bar, where large stone walls and traditional heating stoves create a cozy, inviting environment. The interior harmoniously blends rustic Scottish elements with contemporary design, offering a warm retreat after a day exploring Skye’s rugged landscapes.A Curated Selection of Local Spirits and Ales
The bar prides itself on showcasing the best of Scottish beverages, featuring an exceptional array of single malts, Scottish gins, and ales from the Isle of Skye Brewery. Guests can savor the award-winning Thistly Cross farmhouse cider on tap, alongside rotating selections of local beers such as Skye Gold and Skye Red. This dedication to local craft brews and spirits provides an authentic taste of the region’s rich brewing heritage.Seasonal, Locally Sourced Cuisine at Dulse & Brose
Attached to the Merchant Bar is the Dulse & Brose restaurant, named after traditional Scottish ingredients seaweed (dulse) and barley (brose). The menu reflects the bounty of Skye and the Highlands, with dishes crafted from fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients. From island seafood to Highland meats and cheeses, the cuisine celebrates regional flavors with an emphasis on quality and sustainability. The menu changes regularly to highlight the best available produce.A Welcoming Atmosphere for Locals and Travelers Alike
The Merchant Bar is known for its friendly, attentive staff who contribute to a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. It is a favored meeting place for locals and visitors, offering a space to unwind with good food, drinks, and occasional live music or themed nights. The bar’s moderate pricing ensures good value without compromising quality, making it accessible for a broad range of guests.Practical Details and Visitor Experience
Open daily from 4 PM to 11 PM, the Merchant Bar provides a comfortable setting for evening meals and drinks. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. The bar’s location in central Portree places it within easy reach of other local attractions and accommodations. Visitors can enjoy a genuine Highland pub experience with modern comforts and a strong sense of place.Commitment to Local Community and Sustainability
The Merchant Bar and its restaurant partner actively support local producers and suppliers, contributing to the Isle of Skye’s sustainable food and drink scene. By focusing on regional ingredients and beverages, they help preserve traditional practices and promote environmental stewardship, offering guests an authentic and responsible taste of Skye.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Clachan Erisco Standing stones, Borve, Isle of Skye
5.4 km
Discover the timeless mystery of Clachan Erisco Standing Stones, where ancient history meets Skye’s wild coastal beauty.
Iron age broch
18.5 km
Explore a uniquely Scottish Iron Age broch perched above Portree, revealing ancient stone craftsmanship and commanding views of Skye’s dramatic landscape.
Dun Osdale
24.3 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Old Ruins
30.3 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Ardmore Arches
31.4 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
31.9 km
A windswept stone cairn on Skye’s east coast, honoring the legacy of Clan MacLeod and their deep roots in the Hebrides.
Neist Point Lighthouse
35.7 km
Iconic lighthouse on Skye’s westernmost point, framed by dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, perfect for stunning coastal views and serene walks.
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse
37.2 km
Historic 19th-century octagonal lighthouse overlooking the narrow Kyle Rhea strait, offering stunning coastal views and maritime heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Eilean Donan Castle
43.4 km
Discover Scotland’s most iconic castle set on a tranquil island where history, nature, and legend converge in breathtaking Highland scenery.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
56.1 km
A historic white lighthouse on the wild northern tip of the Isle of Scalpay, offering sweeping sea views and a taste of remote Hebridean life.
Harris House
64.9 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Sound of Harris
66.7 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
Temple Harris
67.7 km
A modern café and deli in Northton, Isle of Harris, serving great coffee, soups and local produce with stunning sea views across the bay.
Pairc an t-Srath Guest House
68.1 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
Glenfinnan Viaduct
75.3 km
Explore the enchanting Glenfinnan Viaduct, a marvel of engineering surrounded by stunning Scottish landscapes and rich history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Uig/Portree Isle of Sky
0.2 km
Portree, Isle of Skye’s charming harbour town, blends vibrant local culture with breathtaking mountain and sea views.
The Lump
0.3 km
Discover The Lump, a scenic hilltop in Portree with historic tower, panoramic views, and a rich Highland Games heritage.
Isle of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre
1.4 km
Discover artisan candles, delicious pizza, and cultural events at Portree’s vibrant Isle of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre.
Loch Fada
5.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Loch Fada, a serene freshwater loch framed by the iconic Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye.
St. Columba’s Isle
8.1 km
Explore St. Columba’s Isle, a sacred burial ground and historic ecclesiastical site embodying centuries of Skye’s spiritual heritage.
Bearreaig Bay
9.9 km
Secluded Jurassic fossil bay with dramatic cliffs, peaceful pebble beach, and rich natural and industrial heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Allt Dubh View Point
11.9 km
Discover breathtaking mountain and river views framed by a historic stone bridge at Allt Dubh View Point on the Isle of Skye.
Sligachan Old Bridge
13.7 km
Historic 19th-century stone bridge with stunning Cuillin mountain views and legendary enchanted waters on the Isle of Skye.
Amar River Viewpoint
14.5 km
Discover tranquil vistas and natural beauty at Amar River Viewpoint, a serene Highland escape on the Isle of Skye.
Rigg Viewpoint
14.6 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Scotland’s rugged coastline and islands from the tranquil Rigg Viewpoint on the Isle of Skye.
Gesto Bay Viewpoint
14.7 km
Discover sweeping coastal panoramas and tranquil natural beauty at Gesto Bay Viewpoint, a serene gem on the Isle of Skye.
Bruach Na Frithe junction cairn
16.0 km
Serene gateway to the Black Cuillin’s rugged peaks, offering accessible hiking and breathtaking Highland panoramas.
Lou Lou Designs on Skye
16.4 km
Discover unique, handmade Harris Tweed handbags and accessories crafted with passion on the Isle of Skye’s scenic Carbostbeg.
Carbost Burn Waterfall
16.7 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Carbost Burn Waterfall, a serene and accessible natural cascade on the Isle of Skye.
Dun Ardtreck
16.7 km
Explore Dun Ardtreck, a striking Iron Age fort perched on Skye’s rugged coast, blending ancient history with breathtaking Highland vistas.
Essential places to dine
Scorrybreac Restaurant
0.1 km
Elegant small plates and innovative Scottish cuisine with a French twist, set above Portree harbour on the scenic Isle of Skye.
Tianavaig Restaurant
0.1 km
A friendly, casual restaurant in Portree serving classic Scottish dishes with fresh local ingredients and warm hospitality.
The Caledonian Cafe
0.1 km
Cozy cafe in Portree offering hearty local breakfast and lunch with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere on the Isle of Skye.
Cuchullin Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience the freshest Scottish seafood in the heart of Portree’s lively Somerled Square at Cuchullin Restaurant.
Antlers Bar and Grill
0.1 km
A welcoming Highland pub and grill in Portree, serving fresh local seafood, Highland beef, and inclusive menus with lively live music.
Sea Breezes
0.2 km
Intimate harbourfront seafood restaurant showcasing Skye's finest local catches with contemporary technique
The View Restaurant
0.5 km
Savor exquisite Scottish cuisine with breathtaking harbor views at The View Restaurant, Portree’s premier dining destination on the Isle of Skye.
Gasta Port Righ
1.4 km
A vibrant pizzeria and artisan candle hub blending local flavors, crafts, and culture in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
The Noost
12.1 km
Charming waterside takeaway café in Sconser offering superb coffee, homemade cakes, and scenic outdoor seating by the Raasay ferry terminal.
Seumas' Bar
13.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine at Seumas' Bar on the Isle of Skye—where local flavors meet stunning views.
North Harbour Bistro and Tearoom
21.0 km
Exceptional seafood dining with stunning harbour views on the tranquil Isle of Scalpay, blending local flavors and warm hospitality.
Old School Restaurant
22.9 km
Historic family-run restaurant in Dunvegan serving fresh local seafood and Scottish fare with warm hospitality and a cozy atmosphere.
The Bistro at Atholl House Skye
23.0 km
Cozy dining with seasonal Scottish fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Dunvegan, Isle of Skye.
The Dunvegan, Isle of Skye
23.5 km
Cozy Argentinian-inspired fire-cooked dining and charming lodging in the heart of Dunvegan, Isle of Skye.
Cafe Sia & Siaway
25.2 km
Charming island café serving fresh pizzas and quality coffee in a relaxed, friendly setting on the Isle of Skye.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cuillin Crafts
0.0 km
Authentic island craftsmanship and locally made treasures in the heart of Portree.
ÒR
0.1 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery inspired by Skye’s heritage at ÒR, a charming boutique in the heart of Portree.
Tippecanoe
0.1 km
Discover unique Scottish crafts and fair-trade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant main street.
Skye souvenirs
0.1 km
Authentic Isle of Skye souvenirs in a traditional black house setting, celebrating local craftsmanship and heritage in Portree.
Isle of Skye Crafts @ Over the Rainbow
0.1 km
Discover authentic Isle of Skye crafts and unique handmade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant harbour town.
Isle of Skye Distillers
0.1 km
Discover the heart of Skye’s craft spirits with Misty Isle Gin, immersive gin-making, and a vibrant shop in Portree’s center.
Skye Batiks
0.2 km
Discover vibrant Celtic batiks and handloomed textiles crafted with passion in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
Home in the Highlands Portree
0.2 km
Discover authentic Highland crafts and souvenirs at Home in the Highlands Portree, a cozy gift shop nestled in the heart of Isle of Skye’s vibrant town center.
Isle of Skye Aromatics
14.1 km
Discover authentic Highland scents and handmade gifts at Isle of Skye Aromatics in charming Carbost.
Carbost Community Shop
15.7 km
A welcoming community-run shop offering local and vegan delights in the heart of Carbost, Isle of Skye’s charming village life.
Anna Eastwood Jewellery
17.9 km
Discover handcrafted jewellery inspired by the rugged beauty and heritage of the Isle of Skye at Anna Eastwood Jewellery in Fiscavaig.
Hendersons World
22.3 km
Explore Hendersons World in Uig for unique gifts, toys, and games that capture the spirit of Scotland.
Fasgadh Stores
23.4 km
Your friendly village shop in Dunvegan, offering local produce, essentials, and a warm welcome on the Isle of Skye.
Buzy Vee
25.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and quality sewing supplies in Broadford’s welcoming Buzy Vee gift shop.
The Blue Skye gift co.
25.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and enjoy great coffee in the heart of Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming local treasure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Merchant Bar
0.0 km
Experience authentic Isle of Skye hospitality with local ales, fine whiskies, and hearty Highland fare in the cozy Merchant Bar of Portree.
The Bar at Scorrybreac
0.1 km
An intimate cocktail and whisky bar with stunning Portree Harbour views, blending classic recipes with Hebridean flavors on the Isle of Skye.
West Highlands Bar
0.1 km
Cozy Highland pub in Portree offering local whiskies, Isle of Skye brews, live music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
An Talla Mòr Eighteen Twenty
0.1 km
Historic church-turned-pub in Portree offering local ales, live music, and authentic Scottish hospitality in a charming, lively setting.
The Isles Inn
0.2 km
A lively traditional pub and cozy inn in Portree, offering hearty Scottish fare, live folk music, and comfortable rooms in the heart of Isle of Skye.
The Auld Bridge Inn
3.7 km
A cozy Highland bar on Skye offering local drinks and scenic views, perfect for relaxing after exploring the island’s stunning landscapes.
The Old Inn & Waterfront Bunkhouse
15.7 km
Charming Scottish inn with stunning Loch Harport views, local cuisine, live traditional music, and cozy accommodation on the Isle of Skye.
The Ferry Inn
22.1 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
Gabbro Bar
25.4 km
A cozy, dog-friendly local pub in Broadford serving Skye-inspired drinks, hearty snacks, and lively entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Stein Inn
25.4 km
Historic pub and hotel on Skye offering fresh seafood, cozy rooms, and stunning Loch Bay views in a charming coastal village.
The King Haakon Bar
31.9 km
A lively Scottish pub in Kyleakin offering fresh seafood, malt whiskies, live traditional music, and stunning views of the Skye Bridge.
Nanny's
34.4 km
Cozy cafe in Shieldaig serving homemade soups, local seafood, and fresh coffee in a charming Highland village setting.
Bar Am Praban
38.0 km
Cozy up with hearty Highland fare and fresh seafood in a welcoming pub setting on the scenic Isle of Skye.
Beinn Bar
41.7 km
Cozy up with Scotland’s finest whiskies, ales, and gins in a historic Highland bar nestled within The Torridon estate.
The Badachro Inn
42.3 km
Coastal Highland inn renowned for fresh seafood, stunning bay views, and warm, rustic charm in the heart of Badachro.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Skye Camanachd Social Club
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant social heartbeat of Portree at Skye Camanachd Social Club, where tradition meets lively nightlife on the Isle of Skye.
Number 5
59.8 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
The Scaladale Centre
73.0 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
Red fox
92.9 km
Red Fox on the Isle of Lewis: Dive into a vibrant adult entertainment scene amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Roobarb
92.9 km
Experience Fort William’s vibrant nightlife at Roobarb, the welcoming nightclub where music and dancing light up weekend nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Sustainable
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
