The Old Bridge Inn

Food, Drink and Live Music on the River Spey

Old Bridge Inn is Aviemore’s classic Highland gastro pub. Candle-lit tables, log fires, proper pints and plates that feel far more “restaurant” than “regular pub grub”. It’s where locals, skiers, walkers pile in for slow evenings, good chat and seriously good food by the Spey.

Location and atmosphere

• Where it is – Right on the banks of the River Spey and a short walk from the centre of Aviemore.

• The building – once a gamekeeper’s cottage, now a charming pub and restaurant with dark wood, panelling, exposed beams and candlelight.

• Inside vibe – cosy lounge bar with a wood-burning stove, dogs allowed, and a slightly smarter dining room. Think framed vintage ski photos, local art, old Highland bits and pieces on the walls and a warm, busy buzz most nights.

• Outside – decked beer garden and riverside seating when the weather behaves, with views to the old bridge and the Spey drifting past.

This is the sort of place where wet jackets steam gently by the fire, boots end up under the table and nobody is in a hurry to leave.

Hearty Highland cooking with a modern twist

Old Bridge Inn is very much food-led. It’s described as an award-winning Highland gastro pub, with a strong focus on seasonal local produce and bold, flavour-packed dishes rather than basic pub classics.

Style of food

• Modern Scottish with British and European influences.

• Menus change with the seasons – autumn and winter menus, festive set menus and separate lunch and evening menus.

What you might find on the menu

Exact dishes change, but reviews and past menus mention:

• Slow-cooked local lamb, braised beef or venison with rich jus and creamy mash.

• Fresh Scottish fish – roasted or pan-fried fillets with seasonal veg and butter sauces.

• Big, juicy burgers with Cairngorm beef and things like blue cheese or bacon.

• Comfort plates like charcuterie boards, terrines and sharing snacks to go with drinks.

• Proper Sunday roasts with crisp potatoes, Yorkshire puddings and plenty of gravy.

• Beautiful desserts such as sticky puddings, brownies, crème brûlée and seasonal tarts.

Dietary options

• Vegetarian dishes are always on the main menus.

• Vegan choices and gluten-free options are available; staff are used to adapting dishes where they can.

Families

• Dedicated kids’ menu with smaller versions of pub favourites and simpler plates.

• Highchairs are available and children are welcome in the restaurant.

Cask ales, Speyside whisky and more

The bar is a big part of the draw.

• Cask ales – strong local focus, with up to five hand-pulls pouring rotating real ales.

• Whisky – great line-up of single malts, including Speyside favourites and other Scotch regions.

• Wider bar – a well-stocked gantry of gins and other spirits, a wine list to match the food, and premium lagers on tap.

• Vibe at the bar – relaxed mix of locals, climbers, paddlers and holiday-makers, often with people drifting in after a day on the hill.

Live music and events

Old Bridge Inn is known for its live music nights.

• Regular gigs with Scottish and touring acts.

• Music tends to be in the bar area, so you can eat first then move through for a couple of drams and tunes.

• Check their social media for the latest line-up and special events.

Practical Details

• Restaurant: Open 7 days
  Lunch: 12.00 – 14.15, Friday to Sunday
  Dinner: 17.00 – 20.30, every day

• Bar: Open 7 days
  Sunday – Thursday: 12.00 – 23.00, Friday & Saturday: 12.00 – 00.00

Good to know

• Bookings – table booking strongly advised for evenings, weekends and holiday periods; online booking available.

• Dogs allowed in the lounge/bar area, not usually in the main dining room.

• Free Wi-Fi, card payments accepted, and car parking next to the inn.

• Special diets – let them know when you book if you’re vegan, gluten-free or have allergies.

• Who it suits – couples on a food-focused break, groups of friends, walkers and skiers, families who like good food, and anyone chasing a proper Highland pub night.

Location