Kinlochleven might look like just another stop on the West Highland Way, but there’s more to this former aluminum smelting village than meets the eye. After countless hikes in the area, I’ve gotten to know the local food scene pretty well. Here’s where to refuel in this corner of the Highlands.
Highland Getaway Restaurant
The Highland Getaway has earned its spot as the village’s top restaurant. The views alone are worth a visit – you can watch the mountains and river while you eat. But it’s the food that keeps people coming back.
Their fish pie has become something of a local legend. I’d recommend booking ahead if you want to try it – they often sell out, especially during hiking season. The kitchen’s good with dietary requirements too – they’ve got proper vegetarian and vegan options, not just an afterthought salad.
The Highland Getaway splits into two areas – the bar side’s more casual if you just want a quick bite, while the restaurant section works better for a proper dinner. Both have those great views though.
The Tailrace Inn
The Tailrace is my go-to for a straightforward meal. It’s a proper Highland pub that knows its audience – hungry walkers who want good portions of well-cooked food. The British classics here are reliable, and the prices won’t make you wince.
After a day on the hills, there’s nothing better than grabbing a corner table at The Tailrace and warming up with some comfort food. The staff understand that hikers sometimes roll in looking a bit weathered – no one minds if your boots are muddy.
The Bothy Bar
The Bothy Bar nails that sweet spot between pub and restaurant. The view over the loch is spectacular, especially if you catch it at sunset. The service here really stands out – they make you feel like a regular even if it’s your first visit.
I’ve spent many evenings at The Bothy Bar, usually after hiking the Mamores. There’s something about their warm welcome that makes those aching legs feel a bit better.
Chillers Bar & Grill
Don’t let the casual name fool you – Chillers knows what they’re doing in the kitchen. The service is consistently good, and their prices are fair for the portion sizes you get. It’s the kind of place where you can actually relax and not worry about which fork to use.
Loch Leven Seafood Bar
Although not technically in Kinlochleven, it’s worth a trip and not far to The Seafood Bar. Being this close to the coast means the seafood’s fresh. The Seafood Bar makes the most of it, serving up whatever’s been caught nearby. It’s simple cooking that lets the ingredients shine.
Local Tips
If you’re walking the West Highland Way, you’ll find Kinlochleven’s restaurants are used to hungry hikers arriving throughout the day. That said, during peak season (May to September), it’s worth booking ahead for dinner. I’ve seen plenty of tired walkers having to trek between places looking for a table.
Most places serve traditional Scottish dishes – your haggis, black pudding, and Aberdeen Angus beef. The Clootie Dumpling (a kind of steamed pudding) is worth trying if you spot it on a menu. It’s proper old-school Highland cooking.
The best thing about eating in Kinlochleven is how the restaurants fit naturally into the landscape. You’re never far from a mountain view, and most places understand that their customers have probably spent the day outdoors. The food’s hearty and unfussy, perfect for refueling after a long day on the hills.
Prices tend to be reasonable considering the location. You can get a good main course for £12-18 in most places. Remember though, this is a small Highland village – kitchens might close earlier than you’re used to, and some places might change their hours depending on the season.
Where are your favourite places to eat in Kinlochleven?
Let us know in the comments below!
