5 scenic beer gardens to try around Scotland this summer

What’s better than a gorgeous Scottish landscape? Enjoying it with a cold drink in hand, of course! Summer is the ideal time to explore the country so, to help you plan your adventures, here are five scenic beer gardens in Scotland where you can soak up some nice views with a drink or two.

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The Old Forge, Knoydart

The Old Forge is a community-owned pub set on the south shore of the stunning Knoydart peninsula. The building started its life as a cottage in the 1700s before moving on to house at Smiddy’s Forge, and today is home to the the country’s most remote pub.

The bar is well stocked with Scottish staples, including Knoydart Brewery ale from just up the road and plenty of malt whisky choices. The restaurant menu focusses on local, sustainable, delicious food. Seafood and venison feature throughout, as well as hearty pub grub dishes to refuel after a long day bagging munros.

Traditional music sessions are held regularly throughout the summer and the pub has moorings available for seafarers who want to stop by on their west coast tour.

The beer garden sits on the shore of Loch Nevis, where you can sit back with a cold pint and enjoy spectacular seaside views. No two days are the same and the sunsets are something to behold.

The Old Forge will reopen its doors at the beginning of August after an extensive refurbishment, so head there for a traditional Highland welcome.

Visit The Old Forge website to find out more.

Atholl Arms Hotel

There’s really no better place to be than on the banks of the River Tay with a glass of wine, cup of tea or a full hearty lunch.

The pavilion on the terrace provides a relaxed area with a beautiful view. Weather permitting, it will be open for business. Please call (to make sure it is open) if you are planning a special trip, but no bookings are required for the outdoor terrace.

Enjoy tea, coffee, frozen drinks, wine and beer as well as delicious food from its kitchen.

The garden terrace is also pet-friendly serving a dog menu for that touch of luxury for pups too.

Check out The Atholl Arms menu and plan your visit.

The Bennachie Lodge Hotel

The Bennachie Lodge Hotel, bar and restaurant is set on the outskirts of Aberdeen in the village of Kemnay. It’s a short stroll from the river Don overlooked by the beautiful Bennachie hill, which is just short of being a mountain.

The doorway to the Cairngorms, this beautiful hotel boasts the largest beer garden in the north east of Scotland. With beautiful steering trees and blooming laurels with pristine lawns, it is the hidden gem in the north east of beautiful Aberdeenshire.

A charming play area and a bouncy castle ensures children can play safely. Ample wooden tables and chairs are dotted around so you can relax and enjoy the beautiful garden that Alistair, the resident gardener, maintains to the highest of standards.

With dining pods and a marquee that converts to the perfect wedding or party venue, there is something for every occasion.

And the food? Well, it’s some of the finest in Aberdeenshire. Bennachie Lodge uses local ingredients where it can, whether it’s Aberdeen Angus Black Gold Steaks, local fresh seafood, chicken or its famous Jack Daniels BBQ Ribs. Plus, there’s also wood-fired pizzas!

The friendly staff look forward to welcoming you and making it a truly memorable experience and place to relax and enjoy proper Scottish hospitality.

Plan your visit to The Bennachie Lodge.

The Fiddichside Inn

The Fiddichside Inn, nestled in the charming village of Craigellachie, is a hidden gem that captivates visitors with its rich history, warm hospitality and stunning surroundings.

Situated in the heart of Scotland’s Speyside region, renowned for its whisky production, the inn holds a special allure for whisky enthusiasts and travellers seeking an authentic Scottish experience.

Beyond the enchanting interiors, the Fiddichside Inn unveils a delightful surprise for nature enthusiasts—a serene garden and inviting outside seating area that captures the essence of Scottish tranquility.

Nestled at the bottom of the Fiddichside Inn’s garden lies a hidden gem — the meandering River Fiddich. This gentle waterway, with its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding landscape, adds an enchanting touch to the already captivating setting.

In the evenings, the inn’s pub becomes a lively gathering place, where laughter and animated stories fill the air. In this convivial atmosphere, guests revel in the camaraderie, sampling a wide array of unique local whiskies.

Whether it’s to start the day or unwind after a day of exploring, the garden and outside seating at the Fiddichside Inn offer an idyllic sanctuary—a place where time seems to slow down, and the beauty of nature intertwines with the warm embrace of Scottish hospitality.

Find out more about The Fiddichside Inn.

The BUF Prestwick

Experience The BUF, Scotland’s Best Beer Garden 2021, revamped and refreshed.

Nestled along Scotland’s west coast in the seaside town of Prestwick, The BUF has undergone a recent refurbishment, elevating it to new heights. The modern design with rustic charm creates an inviting space for regulars and visitors to let their hair down.

The BUF’s beer garden features a fully equipped outside bar, stocked and raring to go for those sunny summer afternoons. For when the weather doesn’t agree, eight new retractable umbrellas can be put up in seconds, so guests can enjoy their favourite tipples in all weather conditions.

Captivating murals and floral arrays provide a colourful atmosphere, and diners can take in the surroundings whilst enjoying some fresh pub grub from the new and improved menu, with street food and traditional offerings all on the table.

The BUF also offers the best of nightlife – Neon Lights, Late Nights and the best local DJ’s every week!

The BUF is a must visit when in the area! Follow The BUF on Facebook for the latest updates.