5 Cosy Pubs in the North of Scotland

The clocks have changed, the nights are drawing in and winter is on its way. But that doesn't mean it has to be all doom and gloom.

One of the best things about winter is a brisk walk in the cold, followed by a couple of drinks in a pub with a real log fire.

So, in no particular order, here are some of our favourite cosy pubs around the North of Scotland.

Chuck another log on the fire, would you?

CLACHNAHARRY INN 17-19 High Street, Clachnaharry, Inverness, IV3 8RB Website

The 'Clach' is an institution within the local area and serves 4 ales and 1 cider alongside other draught beers, lagers and ciders.

Located near to the Caledonian Canal and the railway, there are great views out to the Beauly Firth.

There are 2 log fires in the public bar and 1 in the restaurant, which serves up a carvery every Sunday.

The pub is also dog friendly, with a water bowl and biscuit barrel for your pampered pooch while you enjoy a relaxing drink by the fire.

CAWDOR TAVERN Cawdor, Nairn, IV12 5XP Website

Cawdor Tavern is situated in the beautiful conservation village of Cawdor, close to the castle made famous by Shakespeare's Macbeth.

Norman & Christine Sinclair took over Cawdor Tavern in 1994 and have strived to create a haven for locals and visitors alike to enjoy quality dining, fine malts, interesting ales and an excellent wine selection.

Open all year serving modern Scottish food with flair, Cawdor Tavern uses fresh local ingredients where possible, to provide a dining experience you will want to come back for time and time again.

STRUY INN Struy, Inverness-shire, IV4 7JS Website

The Struy Inn is a traditional 19th century country inn situated in the heart of the Highlands, within an easy drive of both Inverness and Loch Ness.

Located in the village of Struy, mid-way between Cannich and Beauly, the inn sits at the junction of the Farrar and Glass rivers, and at the gateway to the remote and spectacular glens of Affric, Cannich and Strathfarrar.

With characterful stone walls and a warm open fireplace, the Struy Inn is the perfect place to relax on a cold day.

KIMBERLEY INN Findhorn Road, Kinloss, Forres, IV36 3TX Website

Situated right on the shore of Findhorn Bay, The Kimberley Inn has a long but slightly cloudy history.

Believed to have been called simply "The Inn" originally, it is thought an adjoining carpentry workshop was added to the building as a bar.

This was thought to have been called "The Star Inn" or "The Blue Star Inn".

The fire place is the center of the main area in The Kimberley and always attracts people with its homely feel and warmth. There are also tables outside overlooking the bay and its wildlife.

OLD BRIDGE INN Dalfaber Road, Aviemore, PH22 1PU Website

The Old Bridge Inn, on the banks of the Spey, and on the road to the ski slopes, offers a roaring log fire and great atmosphere, along with excellent food and a fine selection of cask ales, premium lagers and malt whiskies.

It has always been a favourite haunt for those who enjoy the outdoors, while friendly staff and locals always make you welcome (and that includes your dog)!

There are plenty of booths, armchairs and couches to choose from, or watch the local birdlife and red squirrels visiting the heated smoker's area for their fix of nuts and seeds.

What's your favourite cosy pub in the North of Scotland? Let us know in the comments below.

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