The Inn On The Tay
Grandtully, Pitlochry
What is it: Perched on the banks of the roaring River Tay, between rolling hills in one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland, lies the Inn On The Tay. This six-bedroom hotel, with a 56-seat restaurant, overlooks the rushing fury of the Grandtully rapids outside. I, of course, spent most of my time in the cosy bar. Owners Geoff and Josie, along with their two young children, left Glasgow and their successful business to start again in the country. Sick of the stressful city, they wanted to create a new life for themselves by offering great Scottish hospitality combined with the best Scottish produce. Although I believe the establishment has only been open since 2008, it feels as homely as if it had been here for decades. The interior is modern with a definite Scottish influence in the furnishings.
Interesting fact: Directly across the road is The Highland Chocolatier, run by award-winning artisan chocolatier Iain Burnett, who trained under master chocolatiers of the Belgian, Swiss and French schools. If you pop in, you have to try the multi-award-winning Velvet Truffle, part of an internationally renowned range of fresh cream truffles and spiced pralines created using only natural and fresh ingredients. The small, dedicated team of chocolatiers are trained in-house to meticulously hand-craft chocolates.
Verdict: I used to spend a lot of time in Aberfeldy a few miles up the road, and would pop into here for food. I've stayed on occasion and loved it. My only grumble is that i no longer need to visit Aberfeldy, which means I struggle to find an excuse to pop into The Inn On The Tay. Yes, there are more “authentic” bars and restaurants in the area but none come close to the family feel you get here. You can tell that real care and attention has gone into the place.
Drink: The bar, with its log fire, is a great place to sit back with a beer and a wee whisky and forget about the big bad world for a while. The regulars and staff also ensure the banter is flowing if you want to join in. I sat back, relaxed, opened my paper and enjoyed a half-pint of Innis & Gunn lager and a nip of Aberfeldy 12-year-old, distilled just a few miles away.
Food: The owners and the head chef are dedicated to bringing you great food with Scottish ingredients. I loved my Cairn Hill farm burger with beef tomato, gherkins, relish and skinny fries, for £11.
Prices: All in line to keep the regulars and visitors happy. Sometimes, places in locations like this can push the prices up which can spoil the experience.
Children: Very family-friendly atmosphere, and I would highly recommend a day out with the kids here.
Alfresco: A dramatic outdoor area overlooking the rapids of the Tay. Just be careful you don’t get soggy chips.
Perfect for: Taking the family out for the day for great food and amazing Scottish hospitality.
Avoid if: You are confined to venturing out only as far as city centre establishments.
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