The Winking Owl, Aviemore

The "Winky, as it is apparently known for short locally, is now managed by the Aviemore based Cairngorm Brewery. Unsurprisingly, therefore, it stocks several of the Brewery's beers. Cairngorm Black Gold, Trade Winds, Stag, Wildcat and Autumn Nuts are all on hand pump, but as I had sampled them in other town pubs, I opted for a pint of Theakston's Black Bull instead. Theakston's Old Peculier and Best Bitter, plus Fosters, Heineken and Birra Moretti lagers and Strongbow cider are also on draught. Architecturally, the pub is oddly designed, with the modern, lounge style bar on the upper floor and, as far as I could see, only the toilets on the ground floor. There is also a beer garden at the front. The atmosphere was fairly sedate on the Saturday night I visited, with the majority of customers dining, music playing at a moderate level and no TVs in sight. Food is served all day, until 9.30 p.m. and it stays open until 1.00 a.m. at the weekends. A historical footnote is that the pub is built on the site of the former Aviemore Inn (not to be confused with the bar of that name in the nearby Holiday Park), where Robert Burns was served breakfast in 1787.

To all the staff in the Winking Owl, Thank you for yet another year of awesome hospitality. I sampled your fine hospitality over the Thunder wknd as I have over many before. It needs to be said though.....quality step up to the plate this year...wow. The bar as usual fantastic, the staff very considerate and patient, the entertainment to yet another level this year,,, well done...right up there with the very best... awesome bands, and famous stars (Captain Jack) how crazy was that guy. For those reading the blog deciding if this is the pub for them, you will not be disappointed. To the staff, namely the owner.... Next year will see a rather famous shirt to add to your roof... hope your good to your word. Take easy, and to the owner and all who sample this fine establishment in the future ride safe. Tam.

nice pub with mixed clientel.mucked up new year by stopping music at 11.55 and wishing us all the best,had everyone shaking thier heads and going not yet pal. small thing but a count down at the right time would have made all the difference to everyone .