Venturing through a two-day trek, you'll uncover Britain's most secluded, yet highly acclaimed mainland pub.
Hiking to Britain's Most Remote Pub: A Journey to The Old Forge
Nestled in the heart of Scotland's Knoydart Peninsula, The Old Forge pub stands as a testament to resilience and the spirit of adventure. Located in the tiny village of Inverie, this remote mainland pub is a beacon for travelers seeking a unique experience in the Scottish Highlands.
The journey to The Old Forge is no easy feat. Accessible only by boat or a strenuous multi-day hike through rugged Highland terrain, the pub embodies the essence of isolation and ruggedness that defines Knoydart.
The hike typically begins from Kinloch Hourn under midday sunshine, following a path along the southern shore of Loch Hourn, a narrow, fjord-like sea loch. The route traverses rolling terrain, sometimes clinging to the loch's edge and sometimes deteriorating into marshy ground. Hikers must be well-prepared, carrying essentials such as a map, GPS, food, water, and informing someone of the planned route and estimated arrival time.
The hike's ultimate goal is often to reach a prime view of Ladhar Bheinn, Knoydart's highest mountain and often hailed as Scotland's wildest Munro. After a long day of hiking, the hikers are rewarded with the sight of Inverie Bay, its sparkling waters signaling the end of the journey.
The Old Forge, a modest, whitewashed building with a cozy interior, offers a warm welcome to hikers. Manager Will O'Neil, who epitomizes the spirit and resilience of Knoydart, greets hikers with a warm smile. The pub's Business Development Manager, Stephanie Harris, plays an active role in The Old Forge's future, ensuring that the pub continues to thrive and serve as a social and cultural hub for the isolated community and visitors.
Despite its remote location, The Old Forge is well-loved and considered worth the challenging journey for visitors seeking a unique experience in a remote part of the Scottish Highlands. The pub, which is often bustling with a vibrant mix of day trippers, locals, and hikers, serves as a reminder of the enduring allure of adventure and the spirit of the Highlands.
[1] The Guardian. (2020, October 2). Britain's most remote pub remains open during lockdown. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2020/oct/02/britains-most-remote-pub-remains-open-during-lockdown
[2] The Telegraph. (2019, July 21). The Old Forge, Britain's most remote mainland pub, turns 150. Retrieved from https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/uk/articles/the-old-forge-britains-most-remote-mainland-pub-turns-150/
[3] The Scotsman. (2019, July 20). The Old Forge, Britain's most remote pub, celebrates 150th anniversary. Retrieved from https://www.scotsman.com/lifestyle/food-drink/the-old-forge-britains-most-remote-pub-celebrates-150th-anniversary-3393634
[4] The Herald. (2019, July 20). The Old Forge celebrates 150 years as Britain's most remote pub. Retrieved from https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/17785923.the-old-forge-celebrates-150-years-as-britains-most-remote-pub/
[5] BBC News. (2020, October 2). Britain's most remote pub remains open during lockdown. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-highlands-islands-54449750
- The hike to The Old Forge, a testament to resilience and adventure, offers a unique experience for travelers, traversing rugged Highland terrain and providing a prime view of Ladhar Bheinn.
- Nestled in the Knoydart Peninsula, The Old Forge - Britain's most remote mainland pub - embodies the essence of isolation and ruggedness that defines the community, serving as a social and cultural hub for both locals and visitors.
- Historically, The Old Forge, which celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2019, has been well-loved and considered worth the challenging journey for those seeking a unique adventure in a remote part of the Scottish Highlands.
- The journey to The Old Forge, accessible only by boat or strenuous multi-day hike, is a testament to one's capacity for adventure-travel, an essential adventure lifestyle that attracts travelers seeking a unique experience in the Scottish Highlands.
