6 beautiful Scottish pubs named among the UK’s best Autumn getaways for food and views
With stunning scenery and award-winning food, these spots are the perfect destinations for an escape this season.
Six Scottish pubs have been named in UK list of the best spots to visit for an Autumn getaway with excellent food and scenery.
The Guardian compiled a list of top picks of new or recently refurbished pubs spanning the south of England to the Scottish Highlands. All have been chosen for their cosy interiors, stand-out food and gorgeous surroundings - making them fantastic spots for an autumnal escape.
First on the list is The Taybank, situated on the banks of the River Tay with beautiful views of Scottish engineer Thomas Telford’s famous arched bridge.
Guests can enjoy delicious seasonal dishes made with locally sourced produce and live music ranging from traditional Scottish folk sessions to Americana and jazz. Its five boutique bedrooms rooms are thoughtfully designed to blend in with the hotel’s surroundings.
Visitors can soak up the gorgeous countryside during peaceful riverside strolls or venture up the nearby Birnam Hill, before warming up in the cosy downstairs bar popular with locals.
The Bellachroy, also named in the list, is Isle of Mull's oldest inn, established in 1608 as a waypoint for drovers.
It is described by The Guardian as a “vibrant community hub” rated highly for its restaurant serving home-made Scottish dishes and locally fresh seafood caught in waters near the hotel. The locals pub has occasional music, quiz nights and other events, and offers a good range of malt whisky including from Tobermory Distillery.
The bedrooms have been tastefully redecorated and the guest lounge offers views of Loch Cuin.
Further up the west coast, the Plockton Inn is another favourite spot perfect for an Autumn escape. Referred to by some as the “jewel” of the Highlands, the historic fishing village of Plockton is set around the curve of a bay just seven miles from the bridge over to the Isle of Skye, making it a wonderful base for exploring the dramatic scenery of Skye and Torridon.
At the Plockton Inn you can indulge in the best of region’s seafood. People travel far and wide for the langoustine, known as Plockton Prawns to locals, which are caught by local fishermen who land them at the pier in the village.
Also on the list is The Shoregate in the East Neuk of Fife, which reopened in 2022 after a two and a half year restoration and refurbishment to the 18th century building.
The Shoregate is listed in the Michelin Restaurant Guide 2025 and its menu is packed with local produce like Scrabster cod and East Neuk surf clams. It has four bedroom upstairs, which make the perfect spot to stay for a few days while enjoying the wonders of the Fife Coastal Path, with its array of charming fishing villages and world-class fish and chip shops.
The recently refurbished Knipoch House Hotel, near Oban, is also one of The Guardian’s top picks. Its 26 bedrooms are modern and elegant, and offer breath taking views over Loch Feochan.
The hotel’s new fine dining restaurant, 1635, is an exciting addition to the west coast food scene with ingredients sourced directly from local farmers, fishermen and artisans.
Last but not least, the Glenuig Inn, also on the west coast, is a wonderful choice for travellers looking for something a bit different. The pub recently passed into community ownership, making it one of the best stays if you’re keen to support the local economy.
The inn offers spacious rooms, while the bar offers a great choice of food and frequent music sessions. There are plenty of walks right from the doorstep, including the nearby Samalaman beach, a lovely sandy beach with fantastic views to the Small Isles.
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