disgruntled locals and a ramshackle rival, built across the road.
It all began in 2012, after the famous pub came under new ownership.
Belgian national, John-Pierre Robinet reportedly bought the Old Forge after visiting Inverie on holiday. The local watering hole for a population of roughly 90 residents, the pub had always attracted hikers and tourists – however Robinet’s was quick to capitalise on the unique location to attract more international visitors.
A Lonely Planet review described the remote watering hole as “surprisingly sophisticated”.
Tourists came from all over the world to do the three-day hike through the Lochaber hills, or the 7 mile boat ride for a drink at the “end of the world.”
The quirky appeal landed The Old Forge places on World Pub Rankings from publications as far afield as Australia.
However, locals felt they were being overlooked.
In some cases they reported being refused service for being too scruffy.
“I had come back and was a little bit dirty. He refused to serve me until I went home and washed,” disgruntled deer stalker, Uilleam O’Neill told the Press & Journal.
There was further bad blood in 2014 after Scottish police raided the pub over “illegally stored firearms”,
It was in 2017, an unofficial lean-to bar popped up across the road. Called The Table, the “pub” was exactly that – a plank of wood supported by two logs.
Being scruffy was not a problem here.
“There’s an off-licence and you can drink as much as you like,” said Inverie local, Ian Wilson.
