After we’d visited Crawick Multiverse, we made the short(ish) journey to Wanlockhead Inn, Scotland’s Highest pub (1531ft / 467m above sea level)! It’s about 10 miles (20 mins) from Crawick Multiverse.
Wanlockhead Inn overlooks the village, and although it was quiet when we visited, there was a friendly welcome. I had a Guinness with a design “printed” on the top!
Other “Highest” Pubs
Many years ago we went to Top of Coom – Ireland’s Highest Pub (in Co. Kerry, 1045ft / 318m above sea level) – so thought we should complete the UK set! In case you’re wondering… Tan Hill Inn is England/Britain’s highest pub (in Yorshire, 1732ft / 528m above sea level). It seem’s that the honour of being Wales’ highest pub is currently up for grabs (the last 2 pubs that claimed the title appear to be closed)!
The Village
The village of Wanlockhead features on BBC Countryfile‘s June 2024 episode. It’s a former lead mining village near the head of the Mennock Pass and on the Southern Upland Way walking trail, and also the highest village in Scotland. Apparently Wanlockhead’s fortunes were founded on the mineral content of the land and even now some people still pan for gold in a local waterway.
Food
I always think a menu gives you an idea of what an eating establishment is like. The Inn’s focuses on hearty pub classics, and there’s some humour in the kids’ section – they can choose from: “I don’t know, I don’t care, I don’t want anything”, or “I’m not hungry”! Our youngest had actually said “I don’t wan’t anything” before he saw the menu (but then quickly changed his mind)!
Verdict
We enjoyed our brief visit and lunch and so consider it a worthwhile stop. I didn’t realise while there that the Lola Rose Brewery is based at Wanlockhead Inn and has 1531 Red Ale, Blonde and Stout, so we’ll likely go again to sample those!
We also visited Crawick Multiverse on the same day, and recommend both!
Contact, Links & Reviews
Crawick Multiverse, Sanquhar, Dumfries & Galloway,
DG4 6EG.
Planning Your Visit
From Serenity: 49 miles N ~74 min drive ML12 6UZ
From Crawick Multiverse: 10 miles ENE ~20 min drive
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/VkkqsJUgTufNJgjp7