Our Story

Two Hundred Years of Welcome


A definite destination pub, on the Fife Circle line.

Since 1820

A Proper Village Pub


Dating back to around 1820, the Tavern has poured a welcome for thirsty travellers for over two hundred years. Up until the 1980s it was split in two: a Public bar on one side, the Lounge on the other.

It was then opened out into one single bar, where the coal fires and the old wooden bar remain the focus of the room. It has a cosy atmosphere, welcoming staff, is dog friendly, and has an enclosed, sunny beer garden for warmer days.

It draws people from far and wide. A definite destination pub, the Tavern sits on the Fife Circle railway line, within easy reach for anyone coming from Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife and beyond.

A springer spaniel lying on the floor in front of the coal fire, with a painting of Hillend's Main Street on the mantelpiece

Your Hosts

Francesca & Mike Henderson

Francesca and Mike took over in August 2011, and many regulars say the pub has been brought back to life ever since, with a homely, genuine community feel. Pull up a seat; you're always welcome.

Award-Winning Real Ale

CAMRA Pub of the Year


We're proud to have been named Pub of the Year time and again by the Campaign for Real Ale, judged against every other pub serving real ale in the region.

The team behind the bar with the CAMRA Fife Pub of the Year 2026 award

CAMRA Fife

Pub of the Year

2017Winner 2018Winner 2019Runners Up 2020Winner 2021Joint Winner 2023Winner 2024Winner 2025Runners Up 2026Winner

CAMRA Scotland

Pub of the Year

2018Runners Up 2023Winner 2024Winner

2026 winner to be confirmed.

In Three Words

Welcoming · Traditional · Award-Winning
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