The Gellions, Inverness

This claims to be the oldest pub in Inverness, and looks suitably authentic from the outside. Once inside however, it’s really a bit of a disappointment, being rather drab and not at all “olde worlde”. Whether that’s because it only dates from 1841 (where on earth did the locals drink before that?) or whether, as is perhaps more likely, it looks as though it had a somewhat unsympathetic refurbishment in the 60’s or 70’s and hasn’t been touched since. The main bar at the front has a sanded wooden floor and wallpaper that has had several coats of paint applied to it. There is a strip of dark wood panelling running around the wall at chest height, but other than that there is nothing of any note. There were a couple of plasmas on the wall showing Sky Sports and various local advertisements, and several flags pinned to the ceiling. There were a few items of golf memorabilia on the walls, and a couple of large mirrors. The seating is fairly limited, with several small high tables and stools around the perimeter, and just one table and chairs in the middle of the floor. The rear bar appears to be more geared up for eating, although with it’s chequered lino floor it had the look and feel, as well as the smell, of a greasy spoon cafe. There were also adverts on the wall for the Indian restaurant upstairs. Live music seems to feature prominently with a listing displaying the forthcoming acts, and some serious looking speakers at the front of the pub. No real ales unfortunately, just a few keg things such as John Smith’s and McEwans. Ciders were Strongbow and Magners.