The Winking Owl Motorhome Stopover Information

About the Pub 🍺

The Winking Owl is a cozy craft ale pub and restaurant located at 123 Grampian Road, Aviemore, PH22 1RH, within the beautiful Cairngorms National Park. Managed by The Cairngorm Brewery, it offers a warm Highland welcome, serving a wide selection of Scottish beers, gins, malt whiskies, and more. The pub features a Bothy Bar on the ground floor and a restaurant upstairs with mountain views of the Cairngorm range. It is popular for its hearty home-made food, live music in the Bothy Bar on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and a friendly atmosphere suitable for families and groups[1][5][6][7].

Opening Times 🕑

• Wednesday to Saturday: 12:00 pm - 10:30 pm
• Sunday: 12:30 pm - 10:30 pm
• Monday & Tuesday: Opening hours less specified but generally open from 12:00 pm, with the bar open until late on Fridays and Saturdays (up to 1:00 am)[1][2][3][4][6].

Food & Menu 🍳

The Winking Owl offers a diverse menu awarded by Visit Scotland’s Taste our Best Award. The menu includes:

• Scottish and international dishes inspired by local produce.
• Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options available.
• Children’s menu and full allergen information provided on request.
• Meals range from nibbles and daytime snacks to hearty main meals and desserts.

Facilities 🏛

• Free WiFi (password available at the bar)
• Outdoor seating with mountain views
• Electric Vehicle Charging Point
• Disabled access
• Free parking available
• Family and child-friendly environment with baby chairs
• Dogs welcome in the Bothy Bar and limited Well-Behaved Dogs allowed in the restaurant upstairs (except guide dogs only in restaurant)[1][2][5][7]

Dog Friendly 🐶

The Winking Owl is dog friendly, allowing well-behaved dogs in the Bothy Bar and partially in the restaurant upstairs, with some restrictions on guide dogs in the restaurant area. Water bowls and a welcoming attitude make it a good stop for dog owners traveling in a motorhome[1][2][7].

Beer Garden 🍷

The pub boasts an expansive beer garden where guests can enjoy draught ales, lagers, wines, and a wide range of spirits including local whiskies and Scottish gins while soaking in views of the Cairngorm mountains. It's a perfect spot for relaxed drinks in the fresh air[5].

Reviews & Reputation 👑

The Winking Owl is highly regarded with over 1,700 positive reviews on TripAdvisor, ranking #13 of 38 restaurants in Aviemore. Guests praise the quality of beers, hearty food, friendly staff, dog-friendliness, and live music events. It has won the Travelers’ Choice Award for consistently excellent service and atmosphere[6][7].

Live Music & Entertainment 🎧

Live music takes place in the Bothy Bar on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings starting at 9 pm, featuring a mix of traditional and contemporary performances that add to the lively atmosphere[5][7].

Five Interesting Things to Do Within 5 Miles 🏛

1. Cairngorm Mountain

Just a short drive from the pub, Cairngorm Mountain offers spectacular hiking, wildlife spotting, and the Cairngorm Skywalk with panoramic views. In winter, it’s a hub for skiing and snowboarding. The mountain provides a perfect outdoor adventure for nature lovers and families alike.

2. Loch Morlich

Located about 3 miles away, Loch Morlich is famous for its sandy beach and stunning freshwater lake surrounded by forest. Visitors can enjoy walking, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the shore with magnificent views of the Cairngorms towering around.

3. Aviemore Adventure Park

A favorite for families, this adventure park close to the town center features high ropes courses, driving tracks, and a fun climbing wall, offering thrilling activities for all ages just minutes away from the pub.

4. Rothiemurchus Estate

Explore this historic estate offering various activities such as guided nature walks, quad biking, clay pigeon shooting, and horse riding. It’s a great way to immerse in Scotland’s natural beauty and heritage.

5. Reindeer Centre

The Highland Wildlife Park’s Reindeer Centre lets visitors meet and learn about free-ranging reindeer herds. Just a short trip from Aviemore, it’s a magical spot especially for children and wildlife enthusiasts.