The Caledonian, Inverness

It says “Traditional Free House” on the sign outside but the building is an impressive neo-classical one complete with Corinthian columns perhaps an old bank or Gentleman's club. I expected an equally impressive interior but sadly no; grossly modernised inside with the insertion of a mezzanine floor so no height to the room or impressive coffer work to be seen. Booth seating in the front windows and on a raised area to the right. The counter takes up most of the left side, with its collection of dreary UK kegs plus Murpheys and Tennents. There are two beer engines one with Orkney Corncrake which I found unpleasantly acidic and with a geranium taste, maybe that’s just me. The other had a Doombar and an Orkney Northern Lights clip but both turned sideways. The main bar had lots of screens showing a previous football match, a pool table and some piped music obviously to the taste of the lackadaisical barmaid, who sat on the wrong side of the counter checking her phone. The rear has a staircase going up and going down, I could see more machines and probably seating on the upper level.

Official site of The Caledonian - www.greatukpubs.co.uk

Official site of The Caledonian - www.greatukpubs.co.uk