Scotland’s 10 best pub walks – including hidden gems and historic sights

There is nothing quite like a scenic walk with a cosy pub at the end.

New research conducted by VisitScotland has confirmed that hikes are among the favourite activities of tourists visiting Scotland. The tourism board also revealed that the majority of visitors like to nip into one of the country’s countless pubs during a walk.

In response, VisitScotland has a compiled a list of Scotland’s most beautiful ‘pub walks’. Taking in some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery, they all come with the added bonus of a comfy spot to grab some food or drink at the end.

VisitScotland’s outdoor tourism marketing lead Steve Duncan commented: “Our research shows that walking and food and drink experiences are two of the most popular activities for visitors to Scotland. Pub walks offer a great way to combine these, encouraging people to explore an area on foot and enjoy our natural landscapes as well as sampling locally produced food and drink.”

Here are ten of the finest pub walks in Scotland, as reported by the Scottish Daily Express.

From Sand to Applecross Bay and the Applecross Inn in Wester Ross

Embark on a two-hour trek from the stony bay at Applecross to the stunning beach at Sand, which offers ever-changing views across the waters towards Skye, Rona, and Raasay. At the end of your journey, you’ll find the renowned Applecross Inn overlooking the bay.

Arthur’s Seat and Sheep Heid Inn in Edinburgh

This walk, which should take no longer than two hours, takes in Edinburgh’s iconic Arthur’s Seat. The ancient volcano offers sweeping views out across the city and across to Fife, as well as the historic village of Duddingston — where you will find the 14th-century Sheep Heid Inn.

Heaval and Castlebay Hotel Barra on the Isle of Barra

If you make the two-to-three hour hike up Heaval — the biggest summit on the Isle of Barra — you will be rewarded with jaw-dropping views over the island’s village of Castlebay out towards the nearby island of Vatersay. Once you’re done, you can enjoy a drink at the cosy Castlebay Hotel and Bar, which overlooks the harbour and 15th-century Kisimul Castle.

Beinn Dubh and Loch Lomond Arms in Luss

Beginning in the charming village of Luss, this hike will see you make the impressive climb up Beinn Dubh and the Glen Striddle horseshoe, providing unparalleled views across Loch Lomond and the nearby Arrochar Alps. You can cap your day out off with a trip to the Loch Lomond Arms, a former 17th-century coaching inn.

Keiloch Crag and The Flying Stag at Fife Arms in Braemar, Aberdeenshire

One of the shorter pub walks on this roundup, usually taking no longer than two hours, the Keiloch Crag route is a circular walk around the Invercauld Estate. You can complete your hike with a walk along to the Fife Arms hotel and its comfy pub, The Flying Stag.

Wideford Hill and Helgi’s in Kirkwall, Orkney

A hike up Wideford Hill, which should take three hours maximum, offers panoramic views of Kirkwall and the surrounding islands from its peak — as well as access to the 5,000-year-old Wideford Cairn burial site. Complete your journey with a visit to Helgi’s, a traditional pub that takes inspiration from Orkney’s Viking past.

Burns Circular Walk and the Globe Inn, Dumfries & Galloway

Follow in the footsteps of Robert Burns himself, who often walked along the River Nith, with this two-hour walk that takes in sights such as the Burns House Museum and the poet’s Mausoleum. The route ends at The Globe Inn, which is said to have been Burns’ favourite pub.

Gullane and the Bonnie Badger, East Lothian

Taking you around the dramatic coastline of Gullane in East Lothian, this 2.5-hour route passes by both stunning sandy beaches and remnants of World War Two tanks. It ends up at the lovely Bonnie Badger pub and restaurant.

Eildon Hills and The Ship Inn, Scottish Borders

The Eildon Hills in the Scottish Borders have intrigued writers including the likes of Sir Walter Scott, James Hogg, and Thomas the Rhymer. This hike, which should take between three and four hours, begins in Melrose and leads up to the breathtaking peaks — before circling back to the Ship Inn pub.

Lerwick Explorer and the Douglas Arms, Shetland

Finally, a two-hour stroll around Shetland’s beautiful and historic main town and port provides not only a fascinating glimpse into the past but also one-of-a-kind coastal views. Beginning at Lerwick’s 17th-century harbour, it eventually meanders out of town before returning to end at the lovely Douglas Arms.

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