The Maryburgh, Fort William

Almost hidden, as it is, down a flight of steps in a narrow alleyway off the High Street, and being not very well signposted, this could easily go unnoticed on a wander through the town, but it would be extremely unfortunate if it did. Despite considerable competition from the other eight pubs nearby, this was, by some distance, my favourite pub in Fort William. It consists of a small main bar and a side room with a pool table. Both have stone walls, stone flagged floors, old fireplaces and wooden bench seating around the perimeters. An unusual feature in the bar is the old drinking well in the middle of the floor. At the bottom of this are coins thrown down by customers (although the top is now glass covered) and a, presumably fake, skeleton. Prices were very competitive, with a pint of Foster's lager costing only £2.80. Tennent's, Amstel and Carlsberg lagers, Guinness, Belhaven Best and Strongbow cider are also on draught. With limited space, it gets busy and loud very easily, but the Maryburgh is not to be missed from any visit to Fort William pubs.