A village inn in Kippen, near Stirling, known for its hearty steak pie and cosy fire-lit bar rather than plush rooms.
Photos
Photos via Google
About The Cross Keys in Kippen
Kippen is a small village within reach of Stirling, and at its centre stands The Cross Keys, a traditional inn built around a busy bar and restaurant. Stirling University lies nearby, giving the area an added point of interest beyond the village itself, with a golf course, pubs, and other eateries also within reach.
Rooms are en-suite and include family options, kept simple rather than luxurious, with free WiFi and drinks available in room. Breakfast is served on site, and packed lunches can be arranged for days out. The restaurant is the heart of the place, with a menu that regulars return for again and again, particularly the steak pie, Cullen skink, and sticky toffee pudding, all served at reasonable prices. A wood stove and open fire keep the bar warm and welcoming, and staff are attentive without being intrusive.
Outside there's a garden and picnic area for warmer days, plus outdoor seating for a drink after a walk. The inn also offers free on-site parking, luggage storage, laundry service, and a 24-hour reception, and pets are welcome throughout.
Reception hours
- Monday
- 12:00 – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 12:00 – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 12:00 – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM
- Thursday
- 12:00 – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM
- Friday
- 12:00 – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM
- Saturday
- 12:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM
- Sunday
- 12:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 11:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What guests say
We booked an overnight stay and family meal to celebrate my husband’s 70th birthday, choosing Kippen as a convenient halfway point between ourselves, our daughter and her partner. Sadly, the place we’d originally booked was a complete disappointment. It was dirty, run down and clearly neglected. We were so put off by what we could see that we couldn’t help wondering what the kitchen we couldn’t see was like. We cancelled our dinner there immediately. Thankfully, we then were able to book at the Crosskeys Inn instead – and what a difference! Brian and his team completely rescued our special occasion. From the moment we arrived, we were made to feel so welcome. The atmosphere was warm and friendly, the place was well cared for and the food was absolutely excellent. As an added bonus, there was a quiz after dinner that evening that we were invited to join. We didn’t win, but we had such a great time taking part and it rounded off a memorable evening perfectly. Brian and his staff turned what could have been a ruined family celebration into a wonderful experience. If you’re visiting Kippen, I can’t recommend the Crosskeys Inn highly enough. The difference between the two inns is truly chalk and cheese – one is an absolute pleasure to visit, the other isn’t somewhere we’d ever return to. Thank you, Brian, for making my husband’s 70th birthday one to remember for all the right reasons.
a month ago · via Google
Stopped off for an overnight stay at the Cross Keys on the way up to the West coast. Easy check in. Room had everything we needed, with wide reaching views over the surrounding countryside. And a very comfortable bed. Dinner was fantastic. Highly recommend the Skink as a starter. Very friendly clientele. Just so happened it was quiz night when we stayed. Had a great night failing to win the quiz, with the help of some of the locals. Breakfast was very efficient and delicious. Would definitely return if passing through the area again.
a month ago · via Google
A lovely traditional village pub with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The food was very good, the staff were friendly and attentive, and the drinks were all reasonably priced. Whether you're passing through Kippen or spending some time in the village, The Cross Keys is well worth a visit. A great place to enjoy a meal, a drink, and a genuine Scottish pub experience. Highly recommended.
2 months ago · via Google
Amazing and tasty country food served in a quaint pub. The burning fire was perfect on a cold wet Autumn day. The service was excellent. If you visit, you must try the pies. I had the chicken mushroom pie with mash and creamy asparagus and mushrooms. Yummo!
4 months ago · via Google
Diners like this inn's delicious and hearty food, with many highlighting the steak pie, Cullen skink, and sticky toffee pudding. They also mention the warm, friendly, and cozy atmosphere, often enhanced by a wood stove or open fire. Guests appreciate the attentive staff and reasonable prices for both food and drinks.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Main Street, Kippen, Stirling, FK8 3DN Get directions
- Property type
- Hotel
- Location
- Main Street, Stirling
- Good for children
- Yes
- Destination
- Stirling