A famous pub popular with bikers has closed down 200 years after it opened.

The Carbeth Inn, in Blanefield, Stirlingshire, launched in 1816 and became one of the best known pubs in the west of Scotland.

It prided itself on being “one of only a few pubs and restaurants marked on most road maps” and was a popular haunt for bikers and the local community.

The inn had struggled with financial difficulties in recent times and it was announced on Sunday that the owners have decided to close the doors of the pub on the Stockiemuir Road between Milngavie and Drymen.

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A statement on the pub’s Facebook page sad: “Unfortunately this week marks the end of an era for The Carbeth Inn.

“We are all deeply saddened by this but we would like to thank everyone who has supported us over the last two years and made it a fantastic time. Thanks Shirley and the team.”

The official website reads: “It is a pub that almost everyone in the West of Scotland will have at least one fond memory of, but sadly a pub that has struggled more than many others as the industry has nose dived over the past decade.

“Everyone who has visited The Carbeth Inn feels passionate about how it should be, yet it struggles to attract anyone beyond the local hutters or passers by during the wet and cloudy days that dominate our Scottish climate.

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“But on its day, when the sun is shining, no pub on the planet can compete with its majestic view and unique atmosphere.”

A spokesman for owner and operator Greene King said: “As a leading pub operator and brewer, we are committed to running high quality community pubs.

“To be able to continue to invest in our core estate, from time to time we have to make the difficult decision to sell pubs.

“After careful consideration, we have decided to place the Carbeth Inn on the market and it is up for sale as a going concern for hospitality use. We have received interest which we are looking to progress.”