How far would you go for a pint of beer? If you’re planning to venture out into the Scottish Highlands anytime soon, you could soon find out. Situated in the small village of Inverie with a population of 120, The Old Forge is proud to be named the most remote pub in Britain, a few hours northwest of Glasgow. There’s no road going in or out, so it’s either an 18-mile hike over a mountain range or a 7-mile ferry ride across Loch Nevis. As they say, the journey is as important as the destination.
The pub’s story is admirable, an echo of the fighting spirit found in communities across Scotland. When the pub was put up for sale by the owner in 2021, the town started a fundraising campaign to buy it as a collective. The locals were eager to preserve the landmark’s history and its iterations come and gone, from a cottage in the 1700s to a blacksmith shop to a social club to a beloved pub in its current state. The fundraising campaign was successful and today The Old Forge is one of only a few community-owned pubs in Scotland. As the new owners, the group’s goal is to create a vibrant and environmentally conscious pub for all to enjoy.
How to hike to The Old Forge
The closest big city to The Old Forge in Inverie is Glasgow. From Queen Street (GLQ) train station, take the West Highland Line, considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world. If it looks familiar, that’s because it was used to film the Hogwarts Express scenes in the Harry Potter films. Three and half hours and one train change later, you’ll get off the train in Fort William.
From Fort William, call West Highland Taxis for a lift (there used to be a bus, but it’s no longer in service). Ask the driver to take you to Kinloch Hourn an hour and a half away. Next, you’ll walk 22 miles down a dead-end road to the start of the hiking trail. Head west over the mountains for a spectacular view of the Highlands and the loch below. About five hours into your hike, you’ll come across Barrisdale Estate, where you can camp overnight or stay in a cottage. Come morning, continue on for another four hours to your final destination, Inverie, for a total trek of 18 miles.
If you want even more of a challenge, take the train from Glasgow Queen Street (GLQ) station to Glenfinnan (GLF). You’ll need to change trains twice, but at least the trailhead is accessible right from town. Once there, scale up and down the mountains for 28 miles over 15 hours, perhaps spreading the hike over three days.
At long last, enjoy a pint or two
Once you’ve arrived in Inverie, a warm welcome and cold pint awaits, says The Old Forge website. At the pub, you’ll have your pick between cask ales, draught beers, ciders, and craft beers, along with spirits and malt whiskey. The local brews come from the Knoydart Brewery just up the street and the Isle of Eigg Brewery across the water in the next community over.
Pair your pour with a warm meal at the restaurant, like a juicy steak or a hearty stew. If you come around on the weekends, you can expect live musicians to fill the house with traditional music and great craic (slang for a good time). There’s even instruments waiting on the walls, should you want to add your notes to the mix. The most budget-friendly season to visit Scotland is spring and autumn, but it’ll be worth the visit anytime. The pub has in-house events all year round to bring people together, like arts and crafts activities, quiz night, and holiday celebrations. Come for the beer, stay for the community.
