Built on History,
Raised on Hospitality
Directly opposite Inverness Castle and overlooking the River Ness, our building has been part of the Highland capital's story for centuries.
The Building
Our home at 1-2 View Place dates back to the mid-1700s — a Category C listed building spread across four floors of traditional stone construction, with a mix of two- and three-storey sections plus an attic, all shaped by the sloping ground beneath Inverness Castle.
This location has been part of Inverness's urban fabric since the city's medieval expansion around the castle site in the 12th century. Through the 1800s, the building served as offices — likely connected to the governance and justice functions of the castle just across the road.
Minimal modifications over the centuries have preserved its traditional character. The stone walls, the period charm, the views — they're all original. We just added the whisky.
Visit the Inverness Castle Experience
Just steps from our front door, the Inverness Castle Experience is a modern, immersive journey into the stories of the Highlands — its landscapes, people, and heritage. Open year-round, the experience features interactive exhibits, stunning panoramic views from the South Tower roof terrace, and the Saltire Bistro and North Tower Bar for food and drink.
Whether you're exploring Highland culture, designing your own tartan, or simply taking in the views from the castle rooftop — it's the perfect companion to a visit at The Castle Tavern. Pop over for the experience, then come to us for a proper pint.
Explore the Castle ExperienceA Building Through Time
A Building Takes Shape
Our four-storey stone-built home is constructed on the sloping ground beneath Inverness Castle, becoming part of the city's historic core at View Place.
Listed & Protected
The building receives Category C listed status, recognising its architectural and historical significance as part of Inverness's heritage.
The Harlequin Opens
The building opens its doors as a pub for the first time under the name The Harlequin, welcoming locals and visitors to its historic walls.
Family-Run, Locally Loved
A ground-floor bar, upstairs restaurant, and beer garden. Real ales, malt whiskies, and traditional Scottish fare. A favourite for locals, tourists, and Great Glen Way walkers alike.
Offices in the Castle's Shadow
The building serves as offices throughout the 19th century — its proximity to the castle, a centre of regional governance and justice, suggests it supported related functions.
A New Chapter Begins
A liquor license is granted for the site, marking the building's transition from offices to hospitality — a purpose it was always destined for.
The Castle Tavern Is Born
Renamed to reflect its iconic location opposite Inverness Castle, The Castle Tavern finds its true identity — and it sticks.
A Building Takes Shape
Our four-storey stone-built home is constructed on the sloping ground beneath Inverness Castle, becoming part of the city's historic core at View Place.
Offices in the Castle's Shadow
The building serves as offices throughout the 19th century — its proximity to the castle, a centre of regional governance and justice, suggests it supported related functions.
Listed & Protected
The building receives Category C listed status, recognising its architectural and historical significance as part of Inverness's heritage.
A New Chapter Begins
A liquor license is granted for the site, marking the building's transition from offices to hospitality — a purpose it was always destined for.
The Harlequin Opens
The building opens its doors as a pub for the first time under the name The Harlequin, welcoming locals and visitors to its historic walls.
The Castle Tavern Is Born
Renamed to reflect its iconic location opposite Inverness Castle, The Castle Tavern finds its true identity — and it sticks.
Family-Run, Locally Loved
A ground-floor bar, upstairs restaurant, and beer garden. Real ales, malt whiskies, and traditional Scottish fare. A favourite for locals, tourists, and Great Glen Way walkers alike.
Ground Floor Bar
Real ales on tap, malt whiskies on the shelf, and a warm welcome at the door.
Upstairs Restaurant
Traditional Scottish fare with views of the castle and the River Ness.
Beer Garden
The perfect spot for summer evenings — a cold pint and the Highland sky.
