Perth’s Pub Scene Lauded by Acclaimed British Pub Enthusiast

Perth’s thriving hospitality scene has recently received a glowing endorsement from an influential online personality, celebrated for his extensive and insightful reviews of pubs across the United Kingdom. Dale Harvey, the charismatic host of ‘The Great British Pub Crawl’ – a digital series that has garnered a significant following with over 25,000 subscribers on his video channel and an impressive 179,000 followers on a major social media platform – embarked on a dedicated Scottish tour, with Perth featuring prominently on his itinerary.
This particular expedition added a notable chapter to Harvey’s already remarkable record of having visited more than 7,700 establishments nationwide. His journey through Perth, spanning a single bustling Thursday, meticulously documented his experiences in 18 diverse local watering holes. This comprehensive exploration brought his unique critical eye to the much-loved taverns of Perth, along with those in the vibrant cities of Dundee and the historic town of St Andrews. Perth’s Unique Blend of Tradition and Innovation Shines
Within the heart of Perth, Harvey uncovered a rich tapestry of pub experiences. He specifically highlighted several venues that left a lasting positive impression. The subterranean charm of The Bunker offered a distinctive atmosphere, while The Silvery Tay captivated him with its “truly beautiful” setting, likely referencing its serene riverside location often cherished by locals. The traditional allure of The Auld Hoose also received a nod, representing the classic Scottish pub experience that resonates deeply within the community.
A standout revelation during his Perth visit was the Craft Beer Bottle Shop, strategically positioned on South Methven Street. Harvey’s description conveyed an immediate and profound connection, articulating it as “100% something that we knew I was instantly going to fall in love with.” He celebrated it as a “superb little craft beer shop and taproom,” praising both the expertly curated selection of beers from various craft breweries – available both on tap and in bottles/cans – and the welcoming demeanour of its owner. The presence of additional seating, enhancing its appeal as a social hub, solidified its “10/10 establishment” rating, underscoring its role as a vibrant, modern addition to Perth’s traditional pub landscape.
However, the journey offered a moment of candid reflection during a stop at the Kirkside Bar on St John’s Place. Harvey noted a distinct lack of warmth, expressing that he “didn’t feel overly welcome.” This unusual sentiment, compounded by an “eerie silence” that coincided with the jukebox’s inactive state, led him to depart without fully documenting the interior or finishing his drink – a rare departure from his usual comprehensive review style. This particular experience, while a minor blip, serves to illustrate the wide spectrum of atmospheres one might encounter even within a single city’s pub circuit.
Despite this isolated incident, his overarching evaluation of Perth’s pub scene was emphatically positive. He concluded his Perthshire segment by proclaiming it “a really good, fun city for a drink around and a day out in.” This enthusiastic appraisal from a seasoned expert in pub culture is a significant accolade for local businesses, reinforcing Perth’s reputation as a welcoming destination that offers both visitors and residents alike a memorable and enjoyable social experience. Such recognition not only celebrates the hard work of local publicans but also enhances Perth’s standing on the broader map of Scottish tourist attractions. Beyond Perth: Dundee’s Allure and St Andrews’ Charm
Continuing his comprehensive Scottish pub tour, Dale Harvey made his way to Dundee, immersing himself in the ‘City of Discovery’s’ vibrant nightlife. On a subsequent Friday, he undertook an impressive feat, visiting 25 pubs, demonstrating the sheer breadth of options available. His day commenced with an appreciative visit to Frews on Strathmartine Road, which he affectionately described as an “absolute gem,” setting a high standard for the day’s discoveries. The tour then took him along the lively Perth Road, encompassing popular venues such as the Tay Bridge Bar, Braes, and the bustling Giddy Goose. The highlight for many was The Phoenix, a pub he lauded as “fantastic from top to bottom,” not only for its impressive beverage selection but also for its legendary chilli, which he found “incredible.” His evening concluded with visits to various iconic spots, including The Trades Bar, the inviting Star and Garter, and the more discreet, almost clandestine Draffens on Couttie’s Wynd. His ultimate sentiment for Dundee was profound: “Dundee, you have captured my heart,” recommending it as a “top-class Scottish pub crawl without the price tag of Glasgow or Edinburgh,” a clear testament to its exceptional value and energetic atmosphere.
The final destination of his regional exploration was the historically rich town of St Andrews, where he visited 16 pubs on a Saturday. Prior to his St Andrews adventure, he began his day with breakfast at the East Dock Bar in Methil, a practical start to another packed day. Within St Andrews, his itinerary included well-known establishments like The Dunvegan and Molly Malones. A stop at The Keys Bar on Market Street particularly impressed him; with its remarkable whisky selection and 12 diverse keg beers, he highly recommended it as a “really top little bar that you should definitely pay a visit to.” The Criterion on South Street also earned high praise for its excellent range of tap and cask ales, complemented by “mouth-watering” food. His tour of St Andrews concluded with visits to Whey Pat, the New Inn, and the charming Jigger Inn. While acknowledging St Andrews as “a lovely place” brimming with history and beauty, his final reflection carried a note of caution regarding costs, describing it as “definitely not a cheap day out.” This candid observation provides valuable context for future visitors, tempering the town’s undeniable appeal with a practical consideration of expenses. Dale Harvey’s comprehensive video logs of these Scottish pub adventures are readily accessible on his dedicated online channel, offering an invaluable resource for anyone eager to explore the diverse and welcoming pub cultures of Perth, Dundee, and St Andrews.

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