The Hawes Inn
Restaurant | South Queensferry | Scotland | United Kingdom
Historic pub with character
"The Hawes Inn" in South Queensferry, Scotland, is a historic inn and restaurant that belongs to the Vintage Inns chain, offering a fascinating blend of history, charm, and picturesque location. It is situated on the banks of the Firth of Forth, with stunning views of the iconic Forth Bridge, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The building itself dates back to 1793 and has been expanded and renovated multiple times over the centuries, with the most recent comprehensive modernization taking place in 2022. This renovation gave the inn a fresh, contemporary look while preserving its rustic character. The inn is particularly well-known for its connection to Robert Louis Stevenson, who allegedly stayed here in 1886 and wrote parts of his novel "Kidnapped," in which the Hawes Inn is even mentioned. This literary history adds a special aura to the place, attracting guests from all over the world.
Traditional British pub restaurant
Culinarily, "The Hawes Inn" is known for its classic British pub cuisine with a modern twist, focusing on seasonal ingredients and hearty dishes. A highlight is the Sunday Roast, served with slow-cooked meat, crispy roast potatoes, and a rich gravy—truly a delight for lovers of traditional British cuisine. The chargrilled skewers, juicy meat skewers with a selection of fresh salads, are also highly praised and offer a lighter yet flavorful option. For pizza fans, there are stone-baked pizzas that impress with fresh toppings such as truffle cream or spicy Italian sausage. For dessert, the sticky toffee pudding stands out, a warm, sweet treat with caramel sauce that pairs perfectly with a dollop of cream. The kitchen places great emphasis on quality, and many dishes are also available in vegetarian or vegan versions to cater to the diverse needs of guests.
Overnight stay with historic charm
The ambiance of "The Hawes Inn" is as inviting as it is versatile. Inside, crackling fires in the winter provide coziness, while the beer garden in the summer offers a wonderful spot to enjoy the view of the bridge and river with a cool drink. The bar is well-stocked with a selection of cask ales, fine wines, and Scottish gins that complement the food beautifully. The local ale, in particular, is popular for its full-bodied flavor that reflects the regional brewing tradition. The restaurant also features a private dining room suitable for celebrations or special occasions, as well as 14 renovated guest rooms for overnight stays, equipped with modern comforts and historic charm.
Dog-friendly restaurant in Scotland
The service is often described as friendly and attentive, with staff members—often specifically mentioned such as Kirsty or Alison—striving to provide guests with a warm experience. "The Hawes Inn" is also dog-friendly, making it popular among walkers exploring nearby trails like the John Muir Way. However, there are occasional criticisms, such as longer wait times during peak hours or minor discrepancies with orders, which are usually overshadowed by the positive overall experience. The restaurant attracts a diverse clientele—from families to couples to literature enthusiasts following Stevenson’s footsteps—and offers an ideal starting point for day trips to the capital or surrounding areas, being only ten miles from Edinburgh.
