Black Bull Gartmore

The Black Bull in Gartmore is an absolute gem of a village pub. From the moment we walked in, the lovely staff made us feel so welcome, and the warm, stylish décor instantly set the tone for a fantastic visit. The pub’s community ownership after the local buyout gives it an extra-special charm—it’s wonderful to see a village hub so lovingly supported and thriving. The drinks selection is superb, with a great range of draft beers, ales, spirits, espresso coffee, and wines. The new cask ales are especially tasty and well worth trying. Even the toilets are immaculate and beautifully decorated, which tells you everything about the care put into this place. The food was outstanding—fresh, flavourful, and generously portioned. The Cullen skink was beautifully rich and comforting, served with a warm, home-baked roll and butter. The smoked salmon starter was a highlight too, with thick, delicious slices paired with a crisp fresh salad and a hand-carved lemon wedge. The skinny fries were plentiful, wonderfully crunchy on the outside and fluffy inside—exactly as they should be. It’s great to see they cater so well for vegans and vegetarians; we can’t wait to return and try the tofu, cauliflower & cashew stew as well as the classic steak and ale pie next time. The main room, with its fantastic big log burner, made the whole experience even more memorable—our chocolate Labrador was so cosy she fell asleep by the fire! It's a genuinely dog-friendly spot, which we really appreciated. All in all, I’d highly recommend the Black Bull. Friendly, cosy, beautifully run, and serving excellent food and drink—this is exactly what a village pub should be. We can’t wait to go back.

Stayed here whilst working around Scotland. What a fantastic little village pub/hotel. Food and service were great and a lovely atmosphere eating by the log fire in the bar. Friendly locals gave us a warm welcome. Rooms were comfortable and really quiet. Would definitely stay here again if working around the area.

I stayed here for one night with a friend. We absolutely loved the hotel. We had room 3 which had a lovely view and was large and had everything we needed for a one night stay. We did have to share a duvet on the twin beds though just to warn any other friends staying together. Someone else in a different review mentioned the tiny wardrobe, but we didn't need to unpack much so didn't need it other than for hanging coats. ||We ate dinner in the pub and enjoyed our meal. Breakfast was also good. We had the full Scottish breakfast. All the staff were friendly and helpful and suggested some places to walk round about the village before we set off home. We would come back.

This pub is so nice and cozy! The food was awesome! That Drambuie sauce was the best; I even told the chef. The portions were perfect. Everyone was so friendly and helpful. Keep up the great work; I'll be back soon! 🫶

We always stay at the Black Bull when visiting Scotland. Guaranteed a very warm welcome from their friendly helpful staff who genuinely cannot help you enough.|The rooms are clean and cosy. The food and menu is amazing. |The bar area always has the fire lit and a friendly country pub atmosphere.|I look forward to staying again.

Just had a meal here with my wife to cap off our honeymoon and we could not complain about anything. The food was incredible, particularly the steak and the sticky toffee pudding. The option for smaller portion sizes was great and the staff were friendly and switched on. Enjoyed a really nice (generously sized!) dram to finish it off, and after we were done the floor manager, Jack, offered us a lift back to our accommodation so we weren’t walking back in the dark. They even offered to charge our power bank as we ate. Can’t fault the service or the food, will definitely be back!

We stayed at a nearby holiday park and we ordered some takeaway, regrettably only once...we should have done every day not just the last. The food is very good, delicious and fair portions. Whilst waiting for our food to get ready we had a drink and the atmosphere was nice, the place clean and the staff very friendly and welcoming. Fair prices and some games/toys for little ones too. I would recommend it to everyone, go and try it out, you won't regret it. Thank you.

Thoroughly enjoyed a short stay at the Black Bull. Staff was absolutely wonderful. Food was *chef's kiss*. Room just so lovely. And the village was charming. If I return to the area I will certainly book into this Inn.