The Moulin Inn
Pitlochry
Perthshire
What is it? The Moulin Inn is just outside Pitlochry in the village of the same name. The building itself dates back to 1695 and houses 15 bedrooms, a bar and a micro-brewery. It was glorious weather this week which made the approach to the dazzling white building, with large tables out front filled with modern day drovers, even more welcoming. I headed for the bar and I'm sure if I looked up the word cosy in the dictionary there would be a picture of The Moulin Inn. Open fires, exposed beams and loads of authentic bric a brac.
Interesting fact The owners were inspired by pub breweries in England. They realised that because the inns dates from 1695 there must have been a local brewhouse in operation. So it seemed fitting that they celebrated the pub's 300th anniversary by starting to brew at home again.
Verdict I am becoming obsessed with finding these hidden gems on my travels. The best are authentic and offer more than your high street Wetherspoon's. Others are disappointing and seem content to create a pub based around an American tourist's idea of an inn. The Moulin Inn is the former, it had a great mix of locals and travellers; a wee gem that I can't wait to visit again.
Signature drinks The brewery here produces four ales – Moulin Light, Braveheart, Ale of Atholl and Old Remedial. I was recommended the Old Remedial which had a bit of spice but was still sweet. Delicious and great value at £3.85.
Food Sometimes the food can be a let down in country inns because they just buy it all in. Not at the Moulin, where everything seemed to be homemade and tasty. I had a steak and ale pie with chips for £9.25.
Price Not to bad. Small glass of wine £1.85; pint of lager £3.50.
Children Allowed in if eating.
Toilets Basic, as you would expect from a building built in 1695, but clean all the same.
Alfresco Several large circular tables sit out front in the court yard and are always popular on sunny days.
Avoid if you're looking for fine dining.
Perfect for kicking back after a long country walk and sampling some real ales.
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