Tweed Valley Pub Trail

Locally crafted beer. Live music nights. Traditional bar meals. Join us this season for a (responsible) tour of the valley’s cosiest pubs and inns.

At this time of year, the best days end with a cosy pint in front of the fire or glass of wine in hand. Our small corner of the Scottish Borders is blessed with a selection of drinking spots that offer just that – and more. Whether you experience these pubs and inns one at a time or with a few stops, you’re guaranteed plenty of local character and a warm welcome at each …

Innerleithen

Where better to start a local pub trail than at the valley’s newest (and perhaps coolest) drinking spot: Durty Brewing. ‘Life-affirming beer’ is the star at this Innerleithen-based taproom, with a selection of craft lagers, pale ales and dark beers all inspired by the local landscape and celebrated mountain biking trails. The small but stylishly formed taproom is run by the adventurous team behind Durty Events, so expect an outdoorsy crowd at the bar and plenty of creative touches throughout. Be sure to ask about the carving of a mouse at one end of the bar counter!

Beer, bikes and probably some cheeky banter all come as standard at the Durty Brewing taproom

You don’t have to walk far to enjoy an equally warm reception (and cold pint) at the Traquair Arms Hotel. The 200-year-old former coaching inn (main image) was awarded the Best Pub in Scotland at the 2022 National Pub & Bar Awards – and it’s easy to see why. A cosy fire attracts many a hiker, biker or dog walker in the cooler seasons, and the generous lunches and dinners always come up trumps. If the locally brewed ales go to your head, you have the option to sleep them off in one of the hotel’s 15 bedrooms or six self-catering cottages.

Glentress

Walking into the Handle Bar at Riders Retreat is like stepping into an après bar at the end of a day on the slopes. Think laid back vibes, cool, wooden interiors and a hearty, all-day dining menu to soak up the post-activity drinks. Look out for some of Tempest Brewing Co’s finest beers on tap – and a bespoke selection of wines curated by the valley’s premier wine shop, Villeneuve Wines. Best of all, the Handle Bar is easily accessible by bus or on foot from all nearby towns and villages, so no designated drivers required!

Peebles

Further up the valley, the historic town of Peebles isn’t short of places to coorie in for a drink – and The Green Tree Hotel feels like the natural place to kick-off your tour of the town’s best pubs. This traditional, family-run hotel is more popular than ever thanks to the top notch pub food it’s been serving up in recent years. But it’s still a bar that remains true to its roots with a loyal customer base, all day sport on the television and pared-back atmosphere. Darts are big around here and this homely pub is a definite favourite for those on the local circuit.

The Crown Hotel prides itself on locally-brewed beer and fine pub food

Just a few minutes walk along the high street, the Crown Hotel has been in the Cassidy family for almost 60 years. It has seen a fair amount of action over this time, including actor Oliver Reed’s lively 60th birthday celebrations! Reed was a frequent visitor to this warm, welcoming pub, and many visitors still pop in for a drink in the ‘hellraiser’s’ favourite chair. We recommend going slightly easier and enjoying a pint or two of Born Brewery Blonde – brewed in the Scottish Borders – or some first-class breakfast, lunch or dinner (served until 8.30pm). Overnight stays are popular, so book in early.

Across the road you’ll find a pub full of historic charm and cosy snugs. The largest pub in Peebles, The County Inn is famed for its monthly karaoke and disco nights, but it’s also a welcoming spot for families and sports fans looking to catch the match or enjoy some traditional pub fayre. Burrow yourself away in The Library or The Snug for a more intimate drink, or step into the vaults for a quiet game of pool with friends or family. Thursday night is quiz night and live music at weekends is on the cards – look out for details coming soon!

Sport, food and cosy nights out guaranteed at The County Inn

Tucked away in the Old Town – and aptly considered the oldest pub in Peebles – the Neidpath Inn has been serving up pints to locals and visitors since the mid-1800s. Today, this traditional inn is famed for its Saturday night live music programme, featuring a mix of rock, jazz and blues and 80s bands, and free jukebox and pool table action every Friday. There’s an Italian chef preparing fresh, stone-baked pizzas in the kitchen, and an enviable (and ever-changing) selection of limited edition malt whiskies for those looking to round their night off with a dram.

One for the road? The final stop on our pub trail may be one of the smallest – but what it lacks in size it certainly makes up for in character. Named for it’s close connection to Tweed Bridge, The Bridge Inn was awarded the 2017 CAMRA Pub of the Year for Scotland and Northern Ireland and its commitment to real ale continues to attract a beer-loving crowd. Sundays are particularly lively, with jackpot domino tournaments through the day and live music in the evenings to bring the weekend to a happy close.

Further info

Still thirsty? Check out our Pubs and Inns page to discover more wonderful places to enjoy a drink in the Tweed Valley. We’ll be celebrating more unique food and drink spots throughout the season – keep an eye on our Cosy Tweed Valley page for further details.