The Lock Inn: Cozy Canalside Pub in Fort Augustus
Cozy canalside pub with original features, hearty fare, and scenic views in the heart of Fort Augustus, Scotland.
The Lock Inn is a charming canalside pub and restaurant in Fort Augustus, Scotland, known for its cozy atmosphere, original features, and scenic views of the Caledonian Canal. It offers traditional pub fare with some vegan options, a roaring log fire in winter, and outdoor seating overlooking the canal locks during summer. With moderate prices and a welcoming vibe, it’s a popular stop for travelers exploring the Scottish Highlands.
A brief summary to The Lock Inn
- Canal Side, Fort Augustus, PH32 4AU, GB
- +441320366302
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-8:30 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-8:30 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-8:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-8:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-8:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-8:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-8:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit in summer to enjoy outdoor seating with views of the Caledonian Canal locks.
- Try the vegan sweet potato and chickpea curry, a popular plant-based option.
- Arrive early on weekends as the pub operates on a walk-in only basis with no reservations.
- Cozy up by the roaring log fire during colder months for a classic Highland pub experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Lock Inn 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 The Lock Inn
Historic Charm and Setting by the Canal
Nestled alongside the picturesque Caledonian Canal in Fort Augustus, The Lock Inn exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects the rich heritage of the Scottish Highlands. The building retains many original features that give it a timeless pub feel, enhanced by the sight and sound of the canal locks just outside. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil waterside views while dining or relaxing in the beer garden during warmer months, making it a perfect spot to soak in the natural beauty and historic significance of the area.A Welcoming Pub with Traditional Flair
Inside, The Lock Inn offers a cozy environment centered around a roaring log fire during colder seasons, creating a quintessential Highland pub experience. The interior balances rustic charm with comfortable seating, including an upstairs dining area that provides elevated views of the canal. The ambience is casual yet lively, attracting a mix of locals and travelers who appreciate its friendly, if sometimes varied, service and relaxed vibe.Culinary Offerings and Vegan Choices
The menu features classic pub dishes with a focus on hearty, uncomplicated meals served in generous portions. While the food quality has received mixed feedback, The Lock Inn stands out for including vegan options such as a sweet potato and chickpea curry and a chickpea burger, catering to diverse dietary preferences. Seasonal soups and homemade desserts add to the variety, though some visitors note that prices can be on the higher side given the tourist location. The pub also offers takeaway service and a children’s menu, making it accessible for families.Seasonal and Social Atmosphere
The Lock Inn’s atmosphere shifts with the seasons—warm and snug in winter with its fireplace, and bright and scenic in summer with outdoor seating overlooking the canal locks. It is a favored spot for walkers on the Great Glen Way and those touring the Highlands, offering a casual yet memorable stop. The pub’s policy of walk-in seating only encourages a spontaneous visit, fostering a lively social environment especially during peak tourist months.Community and Accessibility
Located centrally in Fort Augustus, The Lock Inn is easily accessible and well integrated into the village’s tourism circuit. It welcomes families, solo travelers, and couples alike, with pet-friendly outdoor areas enhancing its appeal. While parking is limited nearby, the pub’s canalside location and proximity to walking routes make it a convenient and scenic destination for visitors exploring the region.Local Significance and Visitor Experience
Beyond its role as a dining spot, The Lock Inn serves as a cultural touchpoint within Fort Augustus, embodying the spirit of Highland hospitality and community. Its combination of historic ambiance, canal-side charm, and approachable menu makes it a meaningful part of the visitor experience, offering a taste of local life alongside stunning natural surroundings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fort Augustus Lighthouse
0.4 km
Discover the charming Pepperpot Lighthouse, a tiny historic beacon marking the entrance to the Caledonian Canal at Loch Ness in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Bridge of Oich
6.9 km
Victorian engineering marvel: a rare surviving taper-principle suspension bridge from 1854.
Centre of Scotland Stone
33.4 km
Discover the symbolic heart of mainland Scotland marked by a majestic stone set amidst the tranquil Highlands near Newtonmore.
Drumdevan Country House, Inverness
42.3 km
Historic Victorian charm meets tranquil Highland surroundings just minutes from Inverness and Loch Ness.
Highland Scenery
43.7 km
Discover the mesmerizing landscapes of Highland Scenery, a photographer’s dream in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Lochardil House
43.8 km
Historic charm meets peaceful gardens and warm hospitality in this cozy Inverness retreat with excellent dining and modern comforts.
Circle of Wise
44.6 km
Discover the Circle of Wise, a stunning tourist attraction on Great Glen Way, blending natural beauty with vibrant cultural events in Inverness.
Ness Islands
44.7 km
Experience the natural beauty of Ness Islands in Inverness, Scotland, a tranquil retreat with picturesque paths, vibrant wildlife, and stunning river views.
Official end of the West Highland Way
44.9 km
Celebrate the end of Scotland’s iconic West Highland Way in Fort William, where rugged mountains meet vibrant Highland culture.
Torrish at Ness Walk
45.2 km
Experience the essence of Scottish cuisine at Torrish at Ness Walk, where fine dining meets breathtaking views of the River Ness.
Ness Walk Hotel - 5 Star Luxury Inverness Hotel
45.2 km
Elegant 5-star luxury on the River Ness, blending historic charm with modern comfort and acclaimed Highland dining.
Steall Waterfall
45.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Steall Waterfall, a natural wonder in the Scottish Highlands, perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Great War Memorial
45.4 km
A solemn red sandstone Celtic cross on the banks of the River Ness, honouring Inverness’s fallen from the World Wars and later conflicts.
Eden Court Inverness
45.5 km
Discover the vibrant cultural scene at Eden Court Inverness, Scotland's largest arts venue, offering theater, cinema, and community events in a stunning setting.
Rowan Guest House Group Ltd
45.6 km
Comfortable and welcoming bed and breakfast in Inverness, perfect for exploring the Scottish Highlands with quality breakfast and friendly hospitality.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Clansman Centre
0.1 km
Step into 17th-century Highland life in a recreated turf house, where a costumed clansman brings Scotland’s past vividly to life with stories, kilts and ancient weapons.
Highland Hideout
0.3 km
Historic luxury apartments on Loch Ness’s southern shore, blending Gothic heritage with modern leisure and stunning Highland scenery.
Fort Augustus Abbey
0.4 km
Historic Benedictine abbey on Loch Ness’s southern tip, blending military heritage and monastic tradition in stunning Victorian architecture.
Loch Ness View Point Fort Augustus
0.4 km
Discover stunning panoramic views of Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands from Fort Augustus’ serene and iconic viewpoint.
Loch Ness South shore
1.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and mysterious allure of Loch Ness’s South Shore, framed by Highland hills and historic waterways.
Caledonian Canal
1.9 km
Explore the historic Caledonian Canal, a 60-mile engineering masterpiece weaving through Scotland’s Great Glen and iconic lochs.
Allt na Criche
2.0 km
A tranquil woodland walk with waterfalls and spectacular panoramic views over Loch Ness and Fort Augustus.
Kytra Lock, Scottish Canals
3.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and historic charm of Kytra Lock, a peaceful Highland gem on the iconic Caledonian Canal.
Suidhe Viewpoint
7.2 km
Discover breathtaking 360-degree Highland panoramas over Loch Ness from Suidhe Viewpoint, a must-see scenic gem near Fort Augustus.
Dundreggan Rewilding Centre
7.2 km
Explore Scotland’s first rewilding centre, where ancient forests, Gaelic heritage, and wildlife restoration create a unique Highland experience.
Summer House
8.4 km
A serene Victorian folly overlooking the breathtaking Invermoriston Falls on the River Moriston in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Clog & Craft Shop
8.7 km
Discover authentic handmade Scottish clogs, leather goods, and crafts in the heart of Invermoriston near Loch Ness.
General Wade's Military Rd
9.1 km
Historic 18th-century military road network crossing the Scottish Highlands, linking forts and shaping Scotland’s landscape and history.
Invergarry Castle
10.6 km
Historic 17th-century Highland castle ruins perched on Raven’s Rock overlooking Loch Oich, steeped in clan legacy and Jacobite history.
The Well of Seven Heads
12.4 km
A haunting Highland monument marking a brutal 17th-century clan feud where seven severed heads were washed in a sacred well.
Essential places to dine
The Lock Inn
0.0 km
Cozy canalside pub with original features, hearty fare, and scenic views in the heart of Fort Augustus, Scotland.
The Moorings Restaurant
0.2 km
Casual canal-side dining with hearty Scottish and Turkish-inspired dishes, generous portions, and friendly service in the heart of Fort Augustus.
The Boathouse Restaurant
0.5 km
Dine over the waters of Loch Ness with panoramic views and a menu blending Scottish classics and Mediterranean flavors.
Emily's Byre
11.8 km
A cozy Highland restaurant blending authentic Northern Frontier Indian cuisine with traditional Scottish flavors in a charming rustic setting.
The Lochside Brasserie
22.1 km
Eclectic Scottish and international cuisine served waterfront on Loch Lochy with stunning views and warm Highland hospitality.
The Lewiston
23.9 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality and hearty Scottish cuisine near the legendary Loch Ness at The Lewiston.
Fiddlers Highland Restaurant
24.5 km
Cozy Highland dining with authentic Scottish flavors and an award-winning whisky selection in the heart of Loch Ness country.
Cluanie Bar & Kitchen
30.2 km
Savor hearty mountain-inspired dishes and vintage cocktails in a lively Highland inn surrounded by stunning Glenmoriston scenery.
The Struy Inn (Casa Mia)
30.9 km
A cozy 19th-century Highland inn offering intimate dining with Scottish-Argentinian fusion cuisine and a welcoming bar by the wood stove.
Spean Bridge Mill Restaurant
31.6 km
Cozy Highland eatery offering traditional Scottish fare and homemade treats in the heart of Spean Bridge village.
Old Station Restaurant
31.8 km
Historic Victorian railway charm meets hearty Scottish fare and real ales in the heart of Spean Bridge.
The Dores Inn
33.7 km
A welcoming Highland pub with stunning Loch Ness views, hearty fare, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for soaking in Scotland’s natural beauty.
Nevis Range Restaurant
38.5 km
Experience authentic Scottish flavors and stunning Highland views at Nevis Range Restaurant near Spean Bridge.
Downright Gabbler
39.9 km
Experience authentic Highland hospitality with exceptional food, immersive storytelling, and cozy apartments in the heart of Beauly.
Loch Ness House Beefeater
44.2 km
Family-friendly steakhouse and bar & grill in Inverness offering hearty British classics and a welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
That Cute Little Highland Shop
0.0 km
A charming canal-side gift shop in Fort Augustus offering unique Scottish crafts and contemporary Highland designs.
Loch Ness Gifts
24.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and Nessie-themed gifts in the heart of Drumnadrochit, near the legendary Loch Ness.
Great Glen Gifts
24.7 km
Discover authentic Highland crafts and Nessie souvenirs at Great Glen Gifts, your charming family-run shop in the heart of Loch Ness country.
Loch Ness Nessie Shop
30.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and Nessie souvenirs in a friendly, family-run shop near Loch Ness in Inverness.
Ness Gifts
33.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and souvenirs at Ness Gifts, a charming boutique in Dores near Loch Ness.
The Hairy Coo Shop
34.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish charm and unique Highland gifts at The Hairy Coo Shop, a cozy Newtonmore treasure with warm welcomes and fresh sandwiches.
James Pringle Weavers
43.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish weaving heritage and quality textiles at James Pringle Weavers in the historic Holm Woollen Mills, Inverness.
Dalneigh Stores
44.9 km
Explore Inverness with ease! Dalneigh Stores is your go-to convenience shop for essentials and local delights, open daily from early morning to night.
The Merchant
45.8 km
Discover Inverness’s hidden antique gem blending vintage treasures with modern charm on Greig Street.
Highland House of Fraser
45.9 km
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
46.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish woollens and heritage craftsmanship at James Pringle Weavers in the heart of Inverness.
Rouge Boutiques
46.0 km
Discover personalized style and expert fittings at Rouge Boutiques, Inverness’ destination for elegant womenswear and exceptional service.
The Whisky Shop
46.0 km
Discover Scotland’s finest whiskies and expert tastings in the heart of Inverness at The Whisky Shop.
Judith Glue
46.0 km
Discover authentic Orkney knitwear and Scottish gifts in a charming Inverness boutique blending heritage and style near the River Ness.
GLENEAGLES OF SCOTLAND
46.0 km
A refined Scottish clothing shop in Inverness, specialising in premium knitwear and country-style fashion with a Highland soul.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar
35.4 km
Experience authentic Highland hospitality in Dalwhinnie’s cozy and traditional bar, a welcoming retreat amidst Scotland’s scenic beauty.
Three Witches
43.9 km
Family-friendly pub in Inverness offering a warm welcome, great carvery, vegan options, and dog-friendly spaces with a lively, casual atmosphere.
SUIE BAR
45.1 km
Experience authentic Highland hospitality with local ales, whiskies, and live music in the historic heart of Kincraig.
Dows Bar
45.4 km
A welcoming gastropub in Inverness blending local flavors, craft beers, and lively sports in a family-friendly setting.
The Piano and Whisky Bar Inverness
45.6 km
Discover Inverness’s premier whisky and piano bar, blending riverside elegance with live music and an extensive malt whisky collection.
The Wee Bar
45.9 km
A cosy Inverness cocktail bar above Ness Walk, famed for masterful drinks, Highland hospitality, and a warm, intimate vibe.
Glenalbyn Bar
45.9 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with fine whiskies, live music, and a cozy atmosphere at Glenalbyn Bar in Inverness.
Clachnaharry Inn
45.9 km
Experience authentic Highland hospitality, fine whiskies, and stunning Beauly Firth views at the welcoming Clachnaharry Inn.
Revolution Inverness
46.1 km
Trendy city-centre bar and restaurant in Inverness known for lively vibes, cocktails, and comfort food favorites.
The Botanic House
46.1 km
A vibrant live music venue and cocktail bar in Inverness, blending energetic performances with a welcoming atmosphere.
Lauders
46.1 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Inverness at Lauders Bar, where tradition meets lively nightlife and warm Scottish hospitality.
Caledonian
46.1 km
A lively and affordable Scottish pub on Inverness High Street, perfect for classic pub fare and spirited local atmosphere.
The Auctioneers
46.1 km
Lively Inverness pub and sports bar serving hearty traditional fare in a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere on Church Street.
Highlander
46.1 km
Experience daily live Scottish music, authentic cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere at Highlander Bar, Inverness’s cultural heart.
Hootananny
46.1 km
Experience the heart of Scottish folk music and vibrant nightlife at Hootananny, Inverness’s award-winning live music bar and restaurant.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Cozy
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Nature Escape
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
