FACTS: Belhaven Pedigree and Tennent's Lager, £2.10; whisky and vodka (25ml), £1.15; wine (175ml), £1.65.
What's the atmosphere like?
Warm and welcoming. This old alehouse, dating back to 1781 has a faithful following. The L- shaped bar is just big enough to accommodate a reasonable crowd, which is just as well, since it is frequently extremely busy.
Describe the decor?
The main bar has a low, wood-beamed ceiling. Although it has been renovated in recent times, the pub retains many period features. The gantry boasts 40 single malts. There's a cosy snug room and the adjoining restaurant area is bright and cheery with a farmhouse kitchen feel. The atmosphere is very much in keeping with the fact that much of the produce on the menu is sourced locally.
Who drinks here?
The Inn is the main meeting place for locals and visitors in an attractive conservation village which dates back to Pictish times. With a choice of five ever-changing cask-conditioned ales, it is popular with real ale drinkers and last year was Tayside CAMRA Pub of The Year. With en- suite rooms available from Pounds 35 a night, the pub is also a popular watering hole for golfers, many of whom come to the area to enjoy a round on one of the 40 courses within a 20-mile radius.
What about the staff?
Popular proprietors Brian and Rachel Johnston have been in charge for eight years and like to keep a traditional alehouse feel to the premises. They have a trusty band of part- timers who help out when it gets busy. Irene Rodgers is the head chef.
Is the food any good?
It's advisable to book a table as the Crees Inn has a sound reputation for the quality of its food. The menu has a predominantly Scottish flavour, with homemade soup of the day (£2.60) and haggis fritters (£3.15) among the appealing starters and steak and ale pie (£7.15) and spicy & fruity lamb casserole (£8.90) among the selection of main courses. Vegetarians are catered for, too.
Details
01738 850714
Who drinks here?
The Inn is the main meeting place for locals and visitors in an attractive conservation village which dates back to Pictish times. With a choice of five ever-changing cask-conditioned ales, it is popular with real ale drinkers and last year was Tayside CAMRA Pub of The Year. With en- suite rooms available from Pounds 35 a night, the pub is also a popular watering hole for golfers, many of whom come to the area to enjoy a round on one of the 40 courses within a 20-mile radius.
What about the staff?
Popular proprietors Brian and Rachel Johnston have been in charge for eight years and like to keep a traditional alehouse feel to the premises. They have a trusty band of part- timers who help out when it gets busy. Irene Rodgers is the head chef.
Is the food any good?
It's advisable to book a table as the Crees Inn has a sound reputation for the quality of its food. The menu has a predominantly Scottish flavour, with homemade soup of the day (£2.60) and haggis fritters (£3.15) among the appealing starters and steak and ale pie (£7.15) and spicy & fruity lamb casserole (£8.90) among the selection of main courses. Vegetarians are catered for, too.
