The Old Mill Inn, Pitlochry

Picturesquely situated up a semi-pedestrianised alleyway, beside a stream with the old mill wheel still in place, this is probably my favourite Pitlochry pub (Moulin village excepted). There is an outdoor seating area which, being midwinter, was understandably deserted. Inside is a commodious bar/lounge with a large bar top which makes for quick service. It was very busy on both the Friday and Saturday nights I visited, with live music on both. The local Strathbraan Brewery's Head East and Due South ales were on hand pump (both at £3.95 a pint), as was Cromarty Brewery's Kowabunga. Also on draught were Tennent's, Peroni, St. Mungo, Dead Pony Club and Old Mill House lagers, Guinness, Belhaven Best, Aspall Suffolk cider and something called "Over Easy." The Old Mill vies with the Coach House across the road for the title of the most popular and liveliest pub in town, but scores more highly in my book by virtue of having a more attractive interior and location.

Situated just off the main road in a nice little semi-circular mews-like area. You can hear running water from the river as you approach and also can see an old mill wheel mounted by the entrance. Inside is a large modern L shaped place with quite a loungey feel - carpet, heavy tartan curtains, brown shades (almost – but not quite – hotel bar). Clientèle quite comfy, middle-class types and a friendly atmosphere too. Mute football on the TV and live gigs advertised. Two ales (pub is GBG 2016 listed), GK Golden Hen and Dark Island (a bit past its best but drinkable) and expensive. Possibly the nicest pub toilets in the county, modern and spotless. Whilst the beer selection was so-so, it felt like a decent place to drink in.

The Old Inn is a Winner of Inn of the Year at the 2014 Scottish Hotel Awards and sit just 30 metres from the main road through Pitlochry. The bar and restaurant area combined are very comfortable and the view of the mill wheel and the river is very picturesque. The place is open from 8am all week and food is served all day until 9pm and drinks are served all day until late. There is at various times live music and acts on, so check out http://www.oldmillevents.co.uk/#/. Also check out http://www.theoldmillpitlochry.co.uk/