CONTINUE READING...

Become a member of Good Food Guide+ to unlock ⁠Britain’s 100 Best Local Restaurants 2026, and get unlimited access to our reviews, newsletters and other lists including the best bakeries and pubs around Britain

Already have an account? Log in

The Clachan Inn

Dumfries & Galloway, St John’s Town of Dalry - Modern British - Pub with rooms - ££

A proper pub that ticks all the boxes

Overall Rating: Good

Uniqueness:Does the establishment stand out in the context of the local area? Good

Deliciousness:How delicious is the food? Good

Warmth:How warm is the service and the hospitality in general? Very Good

Strength of recommendation:How enthusiastically and widely would you recommend the establishment? Very Good

Located alongside the Galloway Forest Park, the family-run Clachan has everything you could wish for – a traditional, cosy vibe, slate floors, fireside chairs, a ‘fabulous choice of real ales’ and a ‘seriously terrific restaurant’, plus quiz nights and music sessions.  And everyone has a good word for the friendly, engaging staff and their caring attitude to young and old alike. Expect superbly cooked local ingredients and smartly presented dishes, whether you’re opting for a ‘light bites’ lunch or the full works in the evening. Meat and game are well represented with the likes of wood pigeon with potato gnocchi, sweetcorn and ‘nduja or Scotch ox cheek with potato terrine, while fish fans could home in on North Sea turbot with Galloway girolles, peas and baby gem. To conclude, you might find a choux bun with raspberry, white chocolate and lavender or a Scottish cheese plate with house oatcakes and chutney. Aside from the l...

Located alongside the Galloway Forest Park, the family-run Clachan has everything you could wish for – a traditional, cosy vibe, slate floors, fireside chairs, a ‘fabulous choice of real ales’ and a ‘seriously terrific restaurant’, plus quiz nights and music sessions.  And everyone has a good word for the friendly, engaging staff and their caring attitude to young and old alike. Expect superbly cooked local ingredients and smartly presented dishes, whether you’re opting for a ‘light bites’ lunch or the full works in the evening. Meat and game are well represented with the likes of wood pigeon with potato gnocchi, sweetcorn and ‘nduja or Scotch ox cheek with potato terrine, while fish fans could home in on North Sea turbot with Galloway girolles, peas and baby gem. To conclude, you might find a choux bun with raspberry, white chocolate and lavender or a Scottish cheese plate with house oatcakes and chutney. Aside from the line-up of draught beers, drinkers can dip into a short, accessible wine list with seven by the glass.

Read full reviewSee less

J Munro

10 August 2025

We enjoyed a fantastic lunch at the Clachan Inn. The cured sea trout, fennel, caramelised orange, with a nori and sesame cracker was a delightful fresh and light starter. The main courses of North Sea cod, and wild rabbit pappardelle showcased local ingredients. The lavender crème brûlée, and buttermilk panna cotta maintained the high standard of food.

VENUE DETAILS

8-10 Main Street
St John’s Town of Dalry
Dumfries & Galloway
DG7 3UWGB

01644 430241

Make a reservation

OTHER INFORMATION

Accommodation, Separate bar, Parking, Family friendly, Dog friendly, Credit card required

Latest articles