3-star hotel

The Glenavon

4.4 · 338 reviews The Square, Tomintoul, Ballindalloch AB37 9ET, United Kingdom

Charming 3-star inn in Cairngorms National Park, featuring a cozy pub, free breakfast, and easy access to local distilleries and ski areas.

Pet-friendly Kid-friendly Bar on-site Free parking Smoke-free
At a glance

Quick stay signals

Six signals to read the stay at a glance.

Wi-Fi Free
Breakfast Complimentary
Parking Free on-site
Pets Allowed
Family Kid-friendly
Editorial

Hotel overview

Located in the heart of Tomintoul village within Cairngorms National Park, this low-key 3-star inn offers travelers a welcoming and unpretentious stay. Guests can enjoy cozy rooms that, while simple, provide essential comforts including free Wi-Fi and free parking. The Glenavon is best known for its traditional pub atmosphere, featuring a well-stocked bar, a friendly owner, and a beloved bar dog that warmly greets visitors. Breakfast is served at no additional cost, adding to the convenience of your visit.

Although the hotel does not offer air conditioning or a swimming pool, the charm of its quiet location and easy access to the village center make it a preferred choice for travelers seeking authenticity rather than luxury. The pub setup includes a pool table and darts, creating a homely spot for evenings of local interaction, live music, and whisky tastings. Families and pet owners alike will appreciate the friendly, inclusive vibe.

Outdoor activities abound nearby; the hotel is under seven miles from the Lecht ski area and close to famous distilleries and historic castles, making it ideal for day trips and exploring Scottish highland culture and nature.

Stand-out signals

What makes this stay stand out

Three signals that shape how this stay actually feels.

Authentic Pub Experience

Enjoy a cozy bar with a wide whisky selection, pool table, darts, and live traditional music in the village heart.

Pet-Friendly Atmosphere

Bring furry friends along and meet the famous bar dog, making every visit feel like home.

Prime Village Location

Just steps from Tomintoul’s center and close to key attractions like Glenlivet Distillery and ski slopes.

Hotel album

A closer look at the resort

Rooms, common spaces and the small details that shape the stay. Click any photo to view larger.

6 photos
Guest reviews

What travelers say

A snapshot of guest ratings and stories behind the stay.

4.4 / 5

338 verified guest reviews

  • 5 64%
  • 4 23%
  • 3 8%
  • 2 3%
  • 1 2%
Whisky Selection Dog Friendly Fireplace Pool Table Friendly Owner Darts

Heather Voorman.

Stayed 4 month ago

“Had a few pints at this charming pub right in the heart of the town square. They offer an excellent selection of whiskey and beer, a friendly and welcoming bartender, and the sweetest bar dog named Lucie. Definitely worth a stop if you’re in the area!”

4ng3l.

Stayed 5 month ago

“This pub in the heart of Tomintoul is lovely, and the owner, Graham, made our stay even more special. His kindness and generosity really shaped our week in the village. He goes above and beyond, and we enjoyed many great conversations. Graham has such a genuine and kind heart, and this pub is a real gem because of him. It’s also dog friendly and he’s got a gorgeous pup called Lucie adding to the warm welcome. Looking forward to visiting again.”

Tess Palmer.

Stayed 6 month ago

“Lovely bar. Grab a drink, sit by the fireplace and play fetch with Lucy the wonderful bar dog”

Mr Badcrumble.

Stayed 6 month ago

“A very nice pub, with a great selection of beers both on draught and in the fridges. There is also a good variety of alcohol-free beers too, and an amazing array of whiskies. The owner, Graham, is a lovely chap who enjoys a good conversation and the pub dog Lucie is always happy to share her various chew toys with you!”

Caterina Bassano.

Stayed 6 month ago

“This is a review for the bar specifically, as we didn't stay in the hotel. The bar is brilliant! It is a well stocked pub with a fireplace, lovely atmosphere, darts and pool table, plus there was a group of folk playing traditional live music with fiddles. It was a great find during our stay in Tomintoul!”

Thomas Lecocq.

Stayed 7 month ago

“The place to enjoy a good drink and chat after a long day of driving/walking/riding/relaxing/anything :-) a real Pub, as it should be: good people (Graham and his clients), good ales, ciders etc... When visiting in early June, we were so happy to sit by the fireplace We'll miss Lucie's (the beautiful dog) look when she wanted to play oh and if you're coming with a dog, no worries, just send a first human to say hi and Graham will give Lucie a break upstairs so you can enter with your pooches!”

Based on verified guest reviews
What’s on site

Amenities and services

Everything available — and what isn’t — across the property.

7included 6not available

Most loved

Free Wi-Fi Paid breakfast Free parking Pet-friendly Kid-friendly Bar
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Paid breakfast
  • Free parking
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kid-friendly
  • Bar
  • Smoke-free
  • Accessible
  • Pool
  • Air-conditioned
  • Restaurant
  • Airport shuttle
  • Fitness center
Place & surroundings

Location and nearby

Where the hotel sits — and what travelers can reach nearby.

Getting around

  • The Square Central village spot, mere steps from the hotel entrance.
    1 min Walk
  • Aberdeen International Airport Accessible by car in just over 1.5 hours.
    1 hr 31 min Car
  • Inverness Airport Just over an hour’s drive, ideal for regional arrivals.
    1 hr 8 min Car
  • The Glenlivet Distillery Historic whisky tours and tastings close by.
    Nearby
  • Lecht Ski Centre Enjoy winter sports less than seven miles away.
    6.8 mi
  • Ballindalloch Castle Explore a family-run 16th-century castle estate.
    Nearby
Practical guide

Stay essentials

Practical details to know before you check in.

Contact

+44 1807 580218

Room Comfort

Unassuming rooms with essential amenities

Safety

Smoke-free property

Parking

Free parking available onsite

Internet

Free Wi-Fi throughout

Meals

Complimentary breakfast served daily

Pets

Pet-friendly environment

Questions travelers ask

FAQ

Yes, a free breakfast is provided each morning.

Pets are welcome, and the pub is known for its friendly bar dog.

Free parking is available directly at the property.

The inn is kid-friendly and offers a relaxed atmosphere suitable for all ages.

Aberdeen and Inverness Airports are the closest major airports, reachable within about 1 to 1.5 hours by car.

Nearby attractions include ski slopes, whisky distilleries, and historic castles ideal for day trips.
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