Dog-Friendly Pubs in Scotland: Your Complete Guide

Scotland does dog-friendly pubs properly. The combination of working dog tradition, rural culture and genuine hospitality creates conditions where dogs in bars raise no eyebrows. Unlike England where dog policies vary unpredictably, Scottish pubs typically welcome dogs as naturally as any customer. The question is rarely whether dogs are allowed but where they can settle most comfortably.

What sets Scottish pub culture apart is the warmth of welcome. Dogs receive water without asking. Treats appear from behind bars. Space by fires is offered rather than grudged. The welcome feels cultural rather than commercial, reflecting a country where dogs accompany farmers, stalkers and fishermen as working partners deserving respect.

The variety matches Scotland's landscapes. Highland inns offer refuge after mountain walks. Coastal pubs provide post-beach refreshment with sea views. City bars bring dogs into sophisticated surroundings. And everywhere, the assumption is that dogs belong rather than intrude.

Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly have warmed themselves by Scottish pub fires from Edinburgh to Ullapool. We have discovered establishments where the welcome exceeds expectations and learned which pubs genuinely understand dogs. This guide shares the best options across Scotland.

Edinburgh

Scotland's capital offers exceptional dog-friendly drinking. The compact city means most areas include welcoming options, and the combination of traditional pubs with modern bars creates variety that suits all tastes. The surprise is how many establishments welcome dogs rather than how few.

Traditional Pubs

The Oxford Bar

Young Street, New Town

Ian Rankin's fictional detective Rebus drinks here, and the real pub matches its literary reputation. This no-nonsense traditional bar welcomes dogs without fuss. The atmosphere remains genuinely local despite tourist interest. Real ales and straightforward drinks. No food beyond crisps. Dogs fit the unpretentious character perfectly. The small interior fills quickly, but the atmosphere rewards persistence.

The Athletic Arms (Diggers)

Angle Park Terrace, near Haymarket

A proper Edinburgh local serving outstanding real ale. The name comes from its proximity to gravediggers from nearby cemeteries. Dogs welcome throughout. The atmosphere rewards those seeking authentic rather than polished pub experience. The beer quality attracts discerning drinkers from across the city.

Bennets Bar

Leven Street, Tollcross

Victorian interior with original features including etched glass and mahogany fittings. Dogs welcome in the bar. The setting provides glimpse of Edinburgh's drinking history. Good whisky selection. The preservation of original features makes this worth visiting for architecture alone.

The Queens Arms

Frederick Street, New Town

Traditional pub atmosphere in the heart of the New Town. Dogs welcome. Good beer selection. The location provides convenient refreshment during city centre exploration.

Gastropubs

The Scran and Scallie

Comely Bank Road, Stockbridge

Tom Kitchin's neighbourhood pub welcomes dogs throughout with no areas restricted. The food elevates pub dining to restaurant quality while maintaining genuine pub atmosphere. Post-walk from Inverleith Park, this provides excellent refreshment. Water bowls provided. Booking advisable for food. The combination of quality and welcome makes this essential.

Teuchters Landing

Dock Place, Leith

Waterside location in converted waiting room overlooking the Water of Leith. Dogs welcome throughout including the beer garden. Excellent pub food with Scottish emphasis. The setting combines character with comfort. Popular for good reason. The outdoor space overlooking the water provides particularly pleasant summer drinking.

The Fountain

Dundee Street, Fountainbridge

Modern gastropub welcoming dogs with water, treats and attention. The menu focuses on simplicity and sharing. Convenient for walks along the Union Canal. Regular drinks deals. The bright, welcoming interior suits relaxed dining with dogs.

Cold Town House

Grassmarket

Rooftop views with lively atmosphere. Dog-friendly in main restaurant and drinks area. The Grassmarket location provides excellent people-watching. Good for groups combining different requirements.

The Bridge Inn

Ratho, Edinburgh outskirts

Roughly thirty minutes west of the city centre, this sits on the banks of the Union Canal. Perfect lunch or dinner spot after a dog walk along the towpath. The canal setting provides peaceful contrast to city centre bustle.

Neighbourhood Bars

Stockbridge Tap

Raeburn Place, Stockbridge

A favourite in the dog-friendly Stockbridge neighbourhood. Good beer selection. Dogs welcome. The local atmosphere attracts regulars and visitors equally. The Stockbridge area provides concentrated dog-friendly drinking.

Holyrood 9A

Holyrood Road, near Royal Mile

Craft beer bar treating dogs as honoured guests. Water bowls and treats provided on arrival, often on silver platters. Excellent burger menu. Central location near Holyrood Park makes this ideal for post-Arthur's Seat refreshment.

The Kilderkin

Canongate, Royal Mile

Good food and welcoming atmosphere near Holyrood Palace. Dogs welcome in the bar. The location suits visitors exploring the Royal Mile and Holyrood Park.

The Roseleaf

Sandport Place, Leith

Quirky cafe-bar offering cocktails, brunch and traditional pub fare. Dogs welcome. The eclectic interior features vintage furnishings and character. Good for weekend brunch with dogs.

Devil's Advocate

Advocate's Close, Royal Mile

Dogs permitted on terrace and within bar area, though restaurant remains off-limits. The atmospheric close provides dramatic setting. Good cocktails.

Moonwake Beer Co

Taproom and beer garden both open to dogs. Grab a drink and bite with your dog by your side. The craft beer focus suits enthusiasts.

Glasgow

Glasgow's West End has developed strong dog culture, but welcoming options exist throughout the city. The combination of traditional pubs with creative modern bars provides variety. The city's friendliness extends naturally to dogs.

West End

The Sparkle Horse

Dowanhill Street, off Byres Road

Rarely without at least one dog in residence. The much-loved local hosts Monday quiz nights where dogs are equally welcome. The atmosphere encourages lingering. A genuine neighbourhood pub that happens to welcome dogs enthusiastically. The loyal clientele creates warm atmosphere.

Inn Deep

Great Western Road, by River Kelvin

Quirky pub on the riverbank near Kelvingrove Park, making it ideal post-walk destination. The tunnel outdoor area features fairy lights and quirky murals. Dogs welcome. Sourdough pizza and craft beer. The setting rewards the short walk from the park. The railway arch outdoor seating provides unique character.

Ubiquitous Chip

Ashton Lane, Byres Road

Iconic Glasgow restaurant with dog-friendly bar, terrace and rooftop areas. The bar serves excellent food including traditional haggis, neeps and tatties. Dogs receive treats. The atmospheric cobbled lane setting adds character. A Glasgow institution welcoming dogs.

Tennants Bar

Byres Road

Traditional pub with booth seating in the back bar providing comfortable dog space. Treats available. Good honest pub without pretension. The booths provide privacy for settling with dogs.

Church on the Hill

Great Western Road

Dogs are so loved here that a wall of fame displays photos. For discerning pooches, there is selection of doggy drinks including Pawsecco and Bottom Sniffer beer. Treats available. The enthusiastic welcome makes this destination rather than mere refreshment stop.

City Centre

The 13th Note

King Street, Merchant City

Relaxed music bar offering excellent vegetarian and vegan food. Plenty of floor space for dogs. Free biscuits for good behaviour. The atmosphere suits creative types and their creative dogs. Live music adds character.

Van Winkle's

Gallowgate, near Barrowlands

The sign says it all: dogs will receive belly rubs from bar staff. The atmosphere matches the promise. Opposite the famous Barrowlands venue. The genuine enthusiasm for dogs distinguishes this from merely tolerant establishments.

The Duke's Umbrella

Argyle Street

Classic pub dishes elevated to new heights. Dogs welcome companions. The central location makes this convenient for city exploration. Good for lunch during shopping trips.

The Pot Still

Hope Street

Whisky specialist with hundreds of malts available. Dogs welcome in this traditional pub. The whisky selection justifies detour for enthusiasts. Traditional atmosphere.

Southside

The Left Bank

Gibson Street, Kelvinbridge

Charming setting welcoming dogs. The menu combines pub classics with more adventurous options. Good for weekend brunch with dogs in tow. The atmosphere suits relaxed dining.

The Locale

Battlefield Road, Southside

Neighbourhood bar and restaurant welcoming dogs. Good food. The southside location provides alternative to West End concentration.

Near Glasgow

The Stables

Kirkintilloch

Charming country pub built in 1812, set by the canal visible from the beer garden. Proud holder of a dog-friendly pub award. Excellent post-walk stop after exploring around Kirkintilloch. Dogs have their own special menu and the pub has a doggy station to clean muddy paws.

Balloch House

Balloch, Loch Lomond

Wonderful views of Loch Lomond from this Vintage Inn pub. Dogs welcome in the bar area and beautiful garden. Fresh water always available. Treats for good dogs. Perfect base for Loch Lomond exploration.

The Cairngorms

The Aviemore area and wider Cairngorms provide exceptional dog-friendly drinking. After days exploring forest trails and mountain paths, these pubs offer proper refuge.

Aviemore

Old Bridge Inn

Dalfaber Road, Aviemore

The essential Aviemore dog pub. Converted from a riverside cottage in 1982, this sits on the banks of the River Spey with beer garden views. Owned by the Cairngorm Brewery, the bar stocks their award-winning beers. Dogs welcome in the Bothy Bar by the wood-burning stove. Live music and DJs complement excellent locally sourced food.

The setting makes this special. After a day in the Cairngorms, settling by the fire with a craft beer while your dog dries off epitomises Highland pub culture.

Cairngorm Hotel (Cairn Bar)

Grampian Road, Aviemore

The timber-framed bar, separate from the main hotel, provides bolt-hole for dog walkers. Well-lit deck for good weather. Scottish ales and comfort food including steak pie and fish and chips. The central Aviemore location makes this convenient.

The Winking Owl

Grampian Road, Aviemore

Alongside Mackenzies pub, this area of Aviemore centre provides reliable dog-friendly options. Good for families combining dog-friendly with child-friendly requirements.

Wider Cairngorms

The Cairn Hotel

Main Road, Carrbridge

The attractive village of Carrbridge (home to the famous old bridge) hosts this welcoming hotel bar. Dogs welcome. The village makes an excellent base for Cairngorms exploration.

The Glenmore Lodge Bothy

Glenmore, near Aviemore

A bijou bothy in a converted shed near Glenmore Supplies Store. The tiny interior somehow accommodates dogs of all sizes around the log-burning fire. Owners Katie and Scotty provide treats for every canine visitor. Live music in surprisingly compact space. Perfect after walks around Loch Morlich or through Glenmore Forest.

The Boat Hotel

Boat of Garten

The "Osprey Village" provides relaxed accommodation and drinking. Dogs welcome in the bar. The village offers excellent walking and wildlife watching.

Inverness and the North

The Highland capital and surrounding area provide good dog-friendly options for those exploring the north.

Inverness

Black Isle Bar

Church Street

Craft beer bar with wood-fired pizza and 14 en-suite bedrooms. The Black Isle Brewery produces excellent organic beers. Dogs welcome in the bar. The pizza uses organic produce from the brewery farm.

The Gellions

Bridge Street

The oldest pub in the Highland capital welcomes dogs in Montys (the snug through the back) and the courtyard. Traditional atmosphere in historic setting.

Rose Street Foundry

Academy Street

Beautifully restored venue with Bothy Bar, restaurant and private dining. Dog-friendly gastropub showcasing Highland food and beverages. The setting combines industrial heritage with modern comfort.

Around Inverness

The Anderson

Union Street, Fortrose

On the Black Isle, this restaurant/bar/hotel welcomes dogs with well-behaved owners in the pub and beer garden. Dog-friendly guest rooms available. Complimentary water and biscuits. Full restaurant menu available in the bar.

Cromarty Arms

Church Street, Cromarty

Family-run pub in the attractive town of Cromarty. Bed and breakfast accommodation. Delicious home-made bar meals. Traditional music sessions. At least one Cromarty Brewery ale always available.

Isle of Skye

Skye's dramatic landscapes demand equally characterful pubs. Options suit the island's varied geography.

Saucy Mary's

Kyleakin

Named after a legendary Norse princess who charged tolls across the kyle, this lounge bar near the Skye Bridge welcomes dogs. Local Skye ales available. The location makes this convenient first or last stop.

The Old Inn

Carbost, near Talisker Distillery

Traditional inn near the famous Talisker Distillery. Dogs welcome. The location in Carbost provides base for exploring southwest Skye including the dramatic Fairy Pools walk.

Stein Inn

Stein, Waternish

Scotland's oldest inn, dating from 1790, occupies spectacular waterfront position on the Waternish peninsula. Dogs welcome. Fresh seafood. The setting rewards the journey along single-track roads.

The Isles Inn

Portree

Central Portree location convenient for the island capital. Dogs welcome. Good base for exploring Trotternish and the Old Man of Storr.

Perthshire

Central Scotland's accessible Highlands provide excellent pub options within reasonable distance of Edinburgh and Glasgow. The combination of beautiful scenery and good transport links makes this ideal for shorter breaks.

The Inn on the Tay

Grandtully, near Aberfeldy

Riverside location near the famous Grandtully rapids where kayakers train. Dogs welcome. The setting suits post-walk refreshment after exploring the Birks of Aberfeldy or other Perthshire walks. Good food. The river views add character.

Moulin Inn

Moulin, near Pitlochry

Historic inn brewing its own beer in the village of Moulin above Pitlochry. Dogs welcome in the bar. The location provides base for climbing Ben Vrackie or exploring the Pass of Killiecrankie. The home-brewed beer deserves attention.

The Lade Inn

Kilmahog, near Callander

Gateway to the Trossachs welcoming dogs in traditional bar setting. Good base for exploring the Rob Roy Way and surrounding countryside. The location suits those entering or leaving the Trossachs.

Dewar's Aberfeldy Distillery Cafe

Aberfeldy

While distillery tours have varying dog policies, the cafe welcomes dogs. Good coffee and light refreshments. The distillery setting adds interest.

The Fortingall Hotel

Fortingall, near Aberfeldy

Beautiful village hotel in the glen containing the ancient Fortingall Yew (possibly Britain's oldest tree). Dogs welcome. The setting combines natural beauty with comfortable hospitality.

Fort William and Lochaber

The outdoor capital of the UK provides essential refreshment for walkers and climbers. After tackling Ben Nevis or the surrounding mountains, these pubs offer proper recovery.

The Grog and Gruel

High Street, Fort William

Popular with climbers and walkers, this alehouse welcomes dogs in the bar. Good beer selection. The atmosphere reflects the town's outdoor focus. Hearty food suits hungry walkers.

Ben Nevis Bar

High Street, Fort William

Traditional pub welcoming dogs. The location near the start of the Ben Nevis path makes this convenient for pre or post-climb refreshment. Live music some evenings.

The Clachaig Inn

Glencoe

Legendary climbers' pub in dramatic Glencoe setting. Dogs welcome in the Boots Bar. The atmosphere reflects decades of mountaineering history. The location in Glencoe makes this essential for Highland exploration. The surrounding scenery demands attention. Combine with Glencoe walks for proper Highland experience.

Lock Inn

Fort Augustus, Great Glen

Very pet-friendly with two wood fires providing cosy atmosphere. Perfect stop on the Great Glen Way or while exploring the Caledonian Canal. Fort Augustus provides attractive base for Loch Ness exploration.

The Bothy

Fort Augustus

Dogs allowed in the bar area. Plenty of dogs on most visits. Good atmosphere for post-walk refreshment. The restaurant is also excellent for meals without dogs.

The Cluanie Inn

Glenmoriston, A87

Situated on the Road to the Isles between Invermoriston and Skye. Dogs welcome in the bar. Remote location makes this welcome refreshment stop. Traditional Highland inn atmosphere.

Dumfries and Galloway

Scotland's overlooked southwest provides excellent pubs without the journey to the Highlands. The combination of good walking, beautiful beaches and characterful towns makes this region underappreciated.

The Selkirk Arms

High Street, Kirkcudbright

Historic hotel where Robert Burns reportedly wrote the Selkirk Grace. Dogs welcome in the bar. The artistic town of Kirkcudbright provides attractive base for Galloway exploration.

The Steamboat Inn

Shore Road, Carsethorn

Waterfront location on the Solway Firth. Dogs welcome. The views across to England add interest. Good food. The coastal setting suits post-beach visits.

The Globe Inn

High Street, Dumfries

Robert Burns' favourite howff (drinking place). Dogs welcome in the bar. The historic atmosphere connects to Scotland's national poet. Traditional setting.

The Ship Inn

Drummore

Scotland's most southerly pub welcomes dogs. The remote location on the Mull of Galloway rewards those who venture this far south. Simple hospitality in dramatic location.

The Murray Arms

Ann Street, Gatehouse of Fleet

Historic coaching inn welcoming dogs. The attractive town of Gatehouse provides good base for Galloway Forest exploration. Robert Burns connections.

Scottish Borders

The Borders combine accessible location with genuine Scottish character in their pubs.

The Ship Inn

Elie, Fife Coast

Technically Fife rather than Borders, but the coastal location makes this essential. Dogs welcome in the cosy bar with open fire and wood-burning stoves, downstairs restaurant, and beer garden. Water bowls and treats provided. Excellent fish and chips. The beach location means dogs arrive having worked off energy. The pub cricket team plays on the beach, the only such pitch in Britain.

Tibbie Shiels Inn

St Mary's Loch, Borders

Historic inn between St Mary's Loch and the Loch of the Lowes. Dogs welcome. The remote location rewards those exploring the Southern Upland Way or the surrounding hills.

Traquair Arms

Traquair Road, Innerleithen

Near the historic Traquair House, this hotel bar welcomes dogs. Good base for mountain biking in Glentress Forest or walking in the Tweed Valley.

What to Expect

The Scottish Welcome

Scottish pub culture genuinely embraces dogs. Unlike some English establishments where tolerance is grudging, Scottish pubs typically offer enthusiastic welcome. This stems from the working dog tradition, where collies, spaniels and terriers accompanied farmers, shepherds and gamekeepers into pubs for generations.

The welcome manifests in small details. Water appears without asking. Staff engage with dogs rather than ignoring them. Space by fires is offered. Treats materialise. The assumption is that dogs enhance rather than diminish pub atmosphere.

Standard Facilities

Most Scottish pubs provide:

• Water bowls (often without asking)
• Space by fires in winter
• Outdoor seating in summer
• Tolerance of post-walk dampness
• Understanding of working dogs' needs

Many add:

• Treats behind the bar
• Dog menus at upmarket establishments
• Blankets for wet dogs
• Towels for muddy paws
• Dog washing stations at the best establishments

Where Dogs Go

Policies vary but typically:

• Bar areas: almost always welcome
• Snugs and side rooms: usually fine
• Restaurants: often restricted, particularly evenings
• Beer gardens: almost universally welcome
• Accommodation: check individual policies

The distinction between bar and restaurant matters. Lunchtime food service typically accommodates dogs throughout. Evening dining may restrict dogs to bar areas while restaurant sections remain dog-free. This allows establishments to serve both dog owners and those preferring dog-free dining.

Regional Variations

Highlands and Islands: Extremely dog-friendly. Working dog culture means dogs are expected rather than tolerated. Remote pubs particularly welcoming as they rely on dog-owning visitors.

Edinburgh: Sophisticated dog-friendly scene. Gastropubs increasingly accommodate dogs throughout. Traditional pubs universally welcoming.

Glasgow: Strong dog culture, particularly West End. Creative approaches including dog menus and grooming stations.

Rural areas: Almost universally welcoming. Dogs are part of life rather than unusual visitors.

Etiquette

Scottish hospitality expects:

• Dogs under control
• Not begging from other tables
• Settling quietly rather than roaming
• Owners cleaning up any accidents
• Respect for other customers

The tolerance for post-walk mud and dampness exceeds most English pubs, but consideration for other customers remains appreciated. Well-behaved dogs enhance pub atmosphere. Poorly controlled dogs create problems regardless of policies.

Food Service

Dog-friendly dining has improved dramatically. Many establishments now serve full menus with dogs present. The best offer:

• All-day food service in dog-friendly areas
• Evening dining in bar sections
• Outdoor dining in good weather
• Takeaway options when restrictions apply

Booking advisable for popular gastropubs, particularly weekend lunches when dog walkers converge.

Finding Dog-Friendly Pubs

Most Scottish pubs welcome dogs, but confirming beforehand avoids disappointment:

• Check websites for dog policies
• Phone ahead for popular establishments
• Ask about specific areas if dog policies seem unclear
• Confirm evening food service arrangements

Book Your Stay

Ready to explore Scotland's pubs? Browse dog-friendly cottages near the best drinking spots, or find accommodation across Scotland.

FAQs

Are dogs allowed in Scottish pubs?

Yes, most Scottish pubs welcome dogs in bar areas. The culture of working dogs and rural hospitality means dogs in pubs raise no eyebrows. Some pubs restrict dogs from restaurant areas, particularly during evening food service. Always check individual policies, but expect generally positive reception.

Do Scottish pubs provide water and treats for dogs?

Many do. Water bowls are commonly provided without asking. Treats are often available behind the bar. Some upmarket establishments offer dog menus. The standard of dog facilities typically exceeds comparable English pubs.

Can dogs go in beer gardens?

Yes, almost all Scottish pub beer gardens welcome dogs. These often provide the most comfortable option in good weather, with space for dogs to settle without crowding other customers.

Are dogs allowed in Edinburgh pubs?

Yes, Edinburgh is exceptionally dog-friendly. Most pubs welcome dogs in bar areas. The city's compact nature means dog-friendly options exist throughout. Stockbridge, Leith and the Grassmarket areas are particularly well-served.

Are dogs allowed in Glasgow pubs?

Yes, Glasgow's pub scene welcomes dogs, particularly in the West End around Byres Road. The city has developed strong dog culture with many establishments providing treats and dedicated attention.

What about food in dog-friendly pubs?

Most dog-friendly pubs serve food. Dogs are typically welcome during lunch service. Evening dining may have restrictions, with dogs sometimes excluded from restaurant areas. Gastropubs increasingly accommodate dogs throughout, recognising that dog owners deserve good food too.

Are there dog-friendly pubs near walks?

Scotland excels at combining walking with pub refreshment. The Old Bridge Inn in Aviemore sits beside Cairngorms trails. Coastal pubs follow beach walks. City pubs neighbour parks. The integration of walking and drinking is natural rather than contrived.

Can I take multiple dogs to Scottish pubs?

Generally yes, though space considerations apply. Well-behaved multiple dogs typically receive the same welcome as singles. Check with individual pubs if bringing large groups. Some smaller establishments may have practical limitations.

Final Thoughts

Scottish pubs understand dogs. The welcome extends beyond mere tolerance to genuine enthusiasm. Whether warming by Highland fires after mountain walks or enjoying summer beer gardens in Edinburgh, dogs are treated as valued customers rather than inconvenient additions.

The cultural difference from England is notable. Scottish publicans expect dogs. They provide facilities without prompting. They engage with dogs as individuals rather than generic animals. The working dog tradition creates respect that translates into hospitality.

Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max and Molly have their favourites. The Old Bridge Inn in Aviemore provides the quintessential Highland experience. Edinburgh's Stockbridge neighbourhood offers concentrated choice. Glasgow's West End combines atmosphere with genuine welcome. But the beauty of Scottish pub culture is that discoveries await everywhere. Unknown inns in remote glens often exceed famous establishments for warmth and welcome.

The pubs we have shared represent starting points rather than comprehensive coverage. Scotland contains hundreds of dog-friendly establishments, from grand hotels to tiny bothies. The joy lies in exploration, in pushing open doors and finding welcome, in dogs settling contentedly while owners enjoy Scottish hospitality at its finest.

Find your base for Scottish exploration and discover pubs that welcome your whole family.

Cheers.

Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max, Molly and Luke

Pub policies change. Always confirm dog policies when visiting, particularly for food service and accommodation. The information provided reflects our experience but cannot guarantee current arrangements.