More Than Just a Pint

From Ancient Ales to Local Legends, the Pub Is Where Scotland feels like Home

“In a Scottish pub, the fire’s always warm, the stories are tall, and the whisky’s poured with pride.”

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Mad about Scotland? Spread the cheer! Today’s newsletter celebrates the beauty, culture and spirit of Scotland, from its rugged landscapes and ancient castles to its rich traditions and flavours. Know someone who dreams of Scotland too? Spread the magic by forwarding this to a friend - they’ll love discovering a wee bit of Scotland in their inbox!

Belhaven ale at a lively Edinburgh pub - Shutterstock

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In today’s email:-

• More Than Just a Pint

• Find Out What Life Was Like For Our Scottish Ancestors

• Around the Web: Great tasting beers and locals telling stories; Three centuries of Scottish hospitality; From Edinburgh to the Highlands and more…

• Everything you need to know about visiting the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye

• Experiences Likely To Sell Out

• 🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

• From Social Media: Name the best Scotch Whisky

• Scottish Food You Will Love: INVERNESS PUB CRAWL Was So Much Better Than Expected! A Dram in The Highlands!

• Coo Wee: Visiting The World's Whisky Country

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More Than Just a Pint

When you think of Scotland, what comes to mind? Rolling green hills, ancient castles, and bagpipes echoing through the glens, right? But there’s another treasure woven deep into the fabric of Scottish life — the pub.

Scottish pubs are more than just places to grab a drink. They’re warm, lively gathering spots where stories are shared, friendships are made, and history lives on. Whether you're strolling down Edinburgh's cobbled streets or driving through the wild Highlands, you’re never far from a cosy pub that’ll welcome you like an old friend.

Take The Sheep Heid Inn, for example — said to be the oldest pub in Edinburgh, with roots going back to 1360. Tucked away in the historic village of Duddingston, it’s served royalty, poets, and weary travellers alike. Imagine sipping a pint in the same spot where King James VI once bowled with his mates!

From rustic Highland inns with roaring fires to seaside pubs serving the freshest fish and chips, you’ll find something for every taste. Many offer hearty meals, live folk music, and local ales you won’t find anywhere else. Some even double as community centres, where ceilidhs, quiz nights, and local tales take centre stage.

So why should you visit a Scottish pub? Because it’s where culture, comfort, and a wee bit of banter all come together. Whether you fancy a dram of whisky, a plate of haggis, or just a quiet corner to rest your feet, the pub is where the magic of Scotland truly comes alive.

The Brig O Doon Pub near the Robert Burns memorial gardens - birth place of Scottish poet Robert Burns 1759 - 1796, Alloway, South Ayrshire - Shutterstock

Find Out What Life Was Like For Our Scottish Ancestors

Beyond mere curiosity, delving into their professions, language, culture and the landscapes they inhabited can provide rich insights into your own identity and lineage. From the ancient Gaelic language echoing through centuries to the vibrant tapestry of occupations that sustained communities, the story of your ancestors is waiting to be unveiled.

Love to Visit Scotland

Around The Web

Great tasting beers and locals telling stories

The Moulin Inn, Pitlochry, dates back to 1695 - this inn boasts its own brewery and serves hearty meals. Its cozy ambiance makes it a favourite among locals and visitors alike. The Pub refurbishment opened up old fireplaces and beautiful stone walls, that had been hidden for many years.

Three centuries of Scottish hospitality

The Drovers Inn Inverarnan, is steeped in history since 1705, this pub offers a rustic charm with its stone walls and roaring fires. It's reputedly haunted and provides a unique experience along the West Highland Way

The Clachaig Inn in the very heart of Glencoe

This wonderful pub is found amidst Glencoe's dramatic landscapes, and famed for its warm hospitality, live folk music, and a vast selection of whiskies. It's a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. ​

Scotland's oldest registered licensed pub

Licensed in 1734, The Clachan Inn holds the distinction of being Scotland's oldest registered licensed pub. Situated in the picturesque village of Drymen, it was first licensed to Mistress Gow, sister of the famed outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor. The inn offers a warm atmosphere, hearty meals, and a selection of fine ales.

Edinburgh’s traditional The Bow Bar

A traditional Scottish pub known for its impressive whisky collection and real ales. With no televisions or music, it offers a genuine atmosphere for conversation and appreciation of fine drinks.

From Edinburgh to the Highlands

Scotland is a land of stories, legends, and landscapes that take your breath away. And if you're looking for the best way to experience it all, there's no better trip than the one from Edinburgh to the Highlands. This journey is like stepping into a living postcard—filled with ancient castles, misty mountains, shimmering lochs, and cosy villages where everyone has a tale to tell.

Kilchurn Castle on Loch Awe in the Scottish highlands near Glencoe and Oban - Shutterstock

Top Experiences In Scotland Likely To Sell Out

2024 is going to be a busy year - Here is a list of the top experiences that will most likely sell out and you should book in advance. Don’t delay!

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🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

Are you ready to prove your travel smarts? Don’t miss the chance to play the hottest new trivia game for travel lovers!

Here’s a taste: Where is the famous Kylemore Abbey located?

Think you know? Don’t wait—thousands of trivia buffs are already hooked. Play Travel Quizzer now!

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From Social Media

Find out which is the best Scotch whisky the Love Scotland community love!

Scottish Food You Will Love

INVERNESS PUB CRAWL Was So Much Better Than Expected! A Dram in The Highlands!

Coo Wee

Visiting The World's Whisky Country

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