How Old Is The Drovers Inn? Uncovering Centuries Of History

Osborne Collins

26 Jul, 2025

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Have you ever walked into a place and just felt the weight of history settle around you? It's a rather unique feeling, isn't it? Like the very stones and timbers could whisper stories from long, long ago. That's precisely the kind of feeling you get when you step foot into the Drovers Inn, a truly remarkable establishment that has stood the test of time. You might be wondering, just how old is the Drovers Inn, really? Well, that's a question with a fascinating answer, and it speaks to a past filled with travelers, cattle, and more than a few tales. We're going to explore the age of this venerable place, looking at its beginnings and the many years it has seen.

It's interesting, too, how we think about something being "old." Sometimes, it's about actual years passed, like a building that has been around for centuries. Other times, it's more about a relative length of existence, like a piece of cheese that's old just by its smell, you know? But when we talk about a place like the Drovers Inn, we're definitely talking about something that has truly come into existence in the distant past, something that has accumulated a great deal of history within its walls. It's a place that has seen generations come and go, standing firm through changing times and events.

This inn, in a way, is a living piece of history. It's not just a structure; it's a testament to a bygone era, a place where people gathered for centuries, seeking shelter, food, and companionship after long journeys. Understanding its age helps us appreciate the countless lives that have passed through its doors, from weary travelers to famous figures. So, let's peel back the layers of time and find out just how far back the story of the Drovers Inn actually goes.

The Scottish Drovers Inn: A 300-Year-Old Legacy
The Old Drovers Inn, Dover Plains, NY: A Different Kind of Old
- Built in 1750: A Stately Presence
- Modern Use of a Historic Building
Exploring the Meaning of "Old"
Frequently Asked Questions About the Drovers Inn
Visiting a Piece of History

The Scottish Drovers Inn: A 300-Year-Old Legacy

When people ask, "How old is the Drovers Inn?", they are very often thinking of the truly historic establishment nestled amid the peaks and lochs of the Scottish Highlands, near Loch Lomond. This particular inn, you know, has a really rich and long history. It’s a place that has truly seen a lot of life pass by, and its age is a big part of its charm and appeal. It’s not just old; it’s ancient, in a way, pertaining to a very distant past indeed.

Established in 1705: A Landmark in Scotland

The Drovers Inn, situated just a few miles north of Loch Lomond, was actually established in 1705. So, if you do the math, that makes it well over 300 years old today, in 2024. That's a pretty impressive run for any business, isn't it? It means this inn has been a continuous presence for more than three centuries, serving countless travelers and locals. It is, in fact, one of the oldest licensed premises in all of Scotland, which is quite a distinction. This kind of age really gives a place a certain character, a sort of venerable feel.

Opened in 1705, the inn truly takes its name from the Highland drovers who used to drive their cattle south to market. These journeys, you see, could take weeks, so the drovers really needed a network of roads and places where they could stop. They needed spots with good provisions for feeding, watering, and resting both themselves and their livestock. These essential stopping points were, of course, the drovers roads and the inns that dotted them. The Drovers Inn was one of these vital havens, and it has pretty much continued its role of providing hospitality for all these years.

Who Were the Drovers, and Why Were Inns Important?

The term "drovers" refers to the people who moved livestock, particularly cattle, on foot over long distances to markets. In Scotland, this was a very significant part of the economy for centuries. The cattle, often from the Highlands, would be driven south to markets like Smithfield in central England, which was a huge market. This was a rather arduous journey, requiring incredible endurance from both the drovers and their animals. So, too, these inns were absolutely essential for their survival and for the success of their business.

These drovers' inns were more than just places to sleep; they were vital hubs of activity. They provided shelter from the elements, a place for food and drink, and a secure spot for the animals. They were also, you know, places for news and gossip to be exchanged, for deals to be made, and for weary travelers to find a bit of comfort. The Drovers Inn near Loch Lomond was converted from just such an old inn used by these very drovers. Its very name tells you about its original purpose and the kind of people who once filled its common rooms.

Famous Visitors and Folklore

Over its long history, the Drovers Inn has counted some truly notable figures among its customers. It's said that the likes of Rob Roy MacGregor, the famous Scottish folk hero, and Samuel Johnson, the renowned English writer, were once patrons. Just imagine, you know, standing in the same spot where these historical figures once stood, perhaps enjoying a meal or a pint after a long day. This connection to such prominent individuals certainly adds to the inn's mystique and its appeal. It gives the place a kind of legendary status, too.

Beyond its famous guests, the Drovers Inn is also reputedly haunted. There is, apparently, no definitive proof of this folklore, but it's a story that has certainly persisted. This reputation for being a haunted place adds another layer of intrigue to its already rich history. It's popular with West Highland Way walkers, tourists, and locals alike, many of whom are drawn not only by its historic charm but also by the chance to experience a truly traditional Scottish atmosphere, and perhaps even a ghostly encounter. It’s a very unique blend of history and mystery, really.

The Atmosphere of an Ancient Inn

Stepping into the Drovers Inn is, in a way, like stepping back in time. The atmosphere is genuinely traditional Scottish, with a feeling that reflects its centuries of existence. The historic inn is located at the northern end of Loch Lomond, and it's also, you know, just 27 miles from Rob Roy’s grave, which connects it further to the history it embodies. The dark wood, the roaring fires, and the collection of historical artifacts all contribute to a feeling that you are in a place where time moves a little differently. It’s a rather special kind of welcome you get there.

The inn’s long history means it has accumulated a unique character. You can almost feel the presence of all those who have passed through its doors over the centuries. It’s a place that has played host to outlaws and ghosts, as the stories go, nestled amid the breathtaking Scottish Highlands. This sense of continuity, of being part of something so much older than oneself, is a big part of what makes the Drovers Inn such a memorable and cherished destination for so many people. It’s a place that truly feels like a living, breathing piece of the past.

The Old Drovers Inn, Dover Plains, NY: A Different Kind of Old

While the Scottish Drovers Inn is the one often highlighted for its extreme age, it's worth noting that there is another notable establishment bearing a similar name: the Old Drovers Inn in Dover Plains, New York. This inn also has a significant history, though it's a bit younger than its Scottish counterpart. It offers a different, yet equally charming, kind of historical experience. It’s a really beautiful country location, and it’s been a stately presence in its area for a long time, too.

Built in 1750: A Stately Presence

The Old Drovers Inn in Dover Plains, NY, was built in 1750. So, that means it's been presiding over the daily life of the area for well over 270 years now. While not quite as ancient as the 1705 Scottish inn, 1750 still places it firmly in the category of very old, venerable buildings. It has certainly been around for a very long time, witnessing much of American history unfold around it. This inn, you know, holds its own special place in the history of the Hudson Valley.

This historic inn, located at 196 E Duncan Hill Rd, Dover Plains, NY 12522, has been a significant landmark for generations. It’s a place that has, more or less, maintained its grand character and charm through the centuries. The beautiful country location of the Old Drovers Inn makes it a rather picturesque spot, and it's surrounded by other attractions, too. There are several wineries located nearby, and you can also enjoy the great outdoors discovering Dover Stone Church or the serene Innisfree Garden. It's a place where history and natural beauty really come together.

Modern Use of a Historic Building

Today, the Old Drovers Inn in Dover Plains, NY, functions as a historical bed & breakfast, a fine dining restaurant, and an event venue. It's a place that beautifully blends its antiquated charm with modern hospitality. For example, the Rose Room, located on the 2nd level of the inn, overlooks the gardens and features a full-sized, beautifully crafted ornate walnut bed. This quaint room also includes a private bath, offering comfort alongside its historic ambiance. It’s a pretty lovely spot for a getaway, you know.

The inn has received positive reviews, with people calling the Old Drovers Inn restaurant a "hidden gem." Visitors have also noted that it's "off the beaten path in Dover," making it a quiet and charming escape. Whether it’s a wedding, a special birthday, or just a holiday, the inn provides a unique setting. The fact that it has been able to adapt and continue serving guests for so many years speaks volumes about its enduring appeal and the quality of the experience it offers. It's a really special place that keeps its history alive while serving today's visitors.

Exploring the Meaning of "Old"

The word "old" itself can mean so many different things, can't it? When we talk about the Drovers Inn, we mean it in the sense of having come into existence or use in the distant past. It’s not just relatively old; it's genuinely ancient, in the context of human structures. An old person has lived long, nearly to the end of the usual period of life, but a building like the Drovers Inn has simply existed for an exceptionally long time, far advanced in the years of its existence. This is a very different kind of "old" than, say, a cheese that's old judging by its smell. It’s a rather profound kind of old, actually.

The Oxford English Dictionary, for example, lists eight meanings for the noun "old," with two even labeled obsolete. This shows how flexible and varied the term can be. But for a place like the Drovers Inn, "old" conveys a sense of venerability, of being antique and having a rich history. It’s not antiquated or archaic in a negative sense, but rather it embodies a deep connection to the past. It’s about the sheer length of its continuous operation and the stories it has gathered over the centuries. It’s a really special kind of "old," you know.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Drovers Inn

People often have a lot of questions about such a historic place, and these are some of the common ones that come up, you know, when people are curious about the Drovers Inn.

Is the Drovers Inn haunted?

The Drovers Inn near Loch Lomond is reputedly haunted. There is, apparently, no definitive proof of this folklore, but the stories of ghostly presences have certainly persisted over the years. This reputation adds to its mysterious charm and is part of what draws many visitors to experience its unique atmosphere. It’s a very interesting aspect of its history, to be honest.

Who were the drovers?

The drovers were individuals who, you know, herded livestock, primarily cattle, on foot over long distances to market. This was a common practice in Scotland for centuries, with cattle being driven from the Highlands to major markets like Smithfield in central England. The Drovers Inn was established to provide essential resting and watering points along these long and arduous routes. They were, in a way, the original long-haul transporters of their time.

Where is the Drovers Inn located?

There are actually two notable inns called "Drovers Inn" mentioned. The most famous and oldest, established in 1705, is the Drovers Inn near Loch Lomond, Scotland, situated just a few miles north of the loch and at its northern tip. The other is the Old Drovers Inn, built in 1750, located at 196 E Duncan Hill Rd, Dover Plains, NY 12522, in the Hudson Valley. So, it really depends on which one you’re thinking of, you know.

Visiting a Piece of History

Whether you're interested in the ancient Scottish Drovers Inn or the historic Old Drovers Inn in New York, both offer a unique opportunity to connect with the past. The Scottish inn, established in 1705, truly stands as a testament to centuries of hospitality, providing shelter and cheer to drovers, famous figures, and modern travelers alike. It’s a place where the walls could, you know, tell countless stories, and where the atmosphere is thick with history and folklore. Its 300-year age makes it a very special landmark indeed.

The Old Drovers Inn in Dover Plains, built in 1750, also holds its own significant historical charm, offering a stately presence and a beautiful setting for dining and lodging. Both inns, in their own way, embody the meaning of being "old" – not just in terms of years, but in the rich tapestry of experiences and lives that have unfolded within their walls. So, too, if you're ever looking for a place that offers more than just a bed for the night, consider visiting one of these remarkable establishments. You might find yourself, you know, transported back in time. Learn more about historic inns on our site, and perhaps plan your next trip to a place like The Drovers Inn, Scotland.