The Royal Oak

The Royal Oak

30 Fife Street, Dufftown

What is it? This local pub is nestled in the picturesque main street of Dufftown, on the famous Malt Whisky trail through the Highlands. Wandering in by chance, we were met with glowing family hospitality by the owner, Pearl, and her granddaughter, Shannon, and subsequently their very large malt collection.

The bar itself is small but comfortable, has a working fireplace, traditional central wood bar, some historical distillery marketing framed on the wall and a pool table. The pub has been in the family for the last 18 years and to be honest the fairly modest surroundings go unnoticed when you're propped at the bar engaging in the banter.

Interesting fact: Around half of Scotland's distilleries are in the small Speyside region. September is the time to visit Dufftown for their annual whisky festival. The Autumn Speyside Whisky Festival includes the famous seven stills tour, music, dancing, pipe bands and craft fairs which attract visitors from all around the world to what is still a uniquely local affair.

Verdict: A gem of a find, not least down to experiencing the kind of honest (you may end up the butt of a joke or two) Scottish banter that is sometimes hard to find these days. Despite being strangers, we were welcomed like close neighbours immediately.

Food: No food offering here at present, but you will get the best of local knowledge about where's good to go.

Drink: A huge array of single malts on offer from knowledgeable but impartial staff: possibly the best way to work through such a collection.

Price: Great value for money and a welcome break from paying city centre prices.

Kids: Dogs, weans, auld and young will be welcomed here.

Alfresco: There are picnic benches at the side.

Perfect for: Sampling the finest drams, meeting the locals and hearing tales from far and wide.

Avoid if: You're looking for a spot for a meeting or plan to get your laptop out.

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