
Words & Photos by Natalie Macdonald
Have you heard the gossip about the new kid on the block?
Inn Defence, located at the former site of The Gossip Cafe on Dumbarton’s High Street, is transforming the local music scene.
This unique venue is more than just a café and record store—it’s fast becoming a vibrant community hub.
Inn Defence is the brainchild of Darren Coles, who’s passion for music is evident throughout.
From the eclectic selection of vinyl records available for sale to the venue’s décor, with its distinctive black, white, and pink color scheme (a homage to Darren’s favorite band, Every Time I Die).
This bold aesthetic sets the stage for the venue’s main attraction: live music.
Every Sunday, Inn Defence hosts local bands as part of its Sunday sessions.
These performances have become a hit, drawing music lovers of all ages, all eager for a taste of live music in an intimate setting.

Love of Music
Darren’s commitment to showcasing local talent stems from his own roots in the music scene; from his days at Rufus T Firefly in Glasgow to performing in bands himself.
He fondly recalls the active local music scene during his teenage years, growing up in Dumbarton: “It all just stemmed from the fact that I’ve just always loved music.
When I was a teenager, there was a studio along the road that put on gigs every weekend.
“It didn’t matter who it was, that was just where you met with your pals. And I just went and watched the bands and then had fun.”
Darren hopes Inn Defence can provide a similar space for music fans of all ages.
But his dedication to supporting local bands goes beyond providing a stage.
Inn Defence operates a record label, Line of Defence, which helps bands press their records on vinyl.
Darren believes his experience as a musician and promoter will allow him to mentor and support emerging artists.
His goal is to reignite the local music scene, offering a grassroots platform for bands and artists to connect with new audiences.
Not Just Tunes
In addition to live music, Inn Defence offers an array of engaging activities.
The café is stocked with board games, books and videogames.
Darren encourages patrons to make use of everything available; it’s all there to be read and played, not just displayed.
Worth noting, Inn Defence is an alcohol-free environment.
This is a deliberate choice, deeply personal for Darren, who is six years sober. It motivated him to create a family-friendly, all-ages venue where everyone feels welcome.
“You can come to a gig. You might not get to go to many gigs. It’s something for everyone. I don’t want there to be a block in place. If we sold alcohol, we would have to make it a ratings event.
“It’s wholesome and I like that, and it’s an alternative to sitting in Wetherspoons! I think, in the time that we’ve been open, only two people have asked if we have beer. So, it’s not missed.”
The venue’s inclusive philosophy is further highlighted by its free entry policy for events.
He explained: Even though it’s a business, I’d rather it be more of a community space that pays for itself.
“That’s why everything we have in here is free entry, I don’t ever want it to be exclusive.
“If someone’s skint that week, I’d rather they came in.”
Jamming with Jams
The café serves breakfast rolls and sandwiches on Mondays and Tuesdays, with a full menu available from Wednesday to Sunday, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with favourites
like the fried Buffalo chicken breast in hot sauce, and the hugely popular katsu fries.
Inn Defence’s commitment to quality extends to its sauces and jams, all made in-house.
The chilli jam, a particular favourite, adds a distinctive twist to the humble grilled cheese sandwich.
And Darren’s eye for detail permeates every aspect of Inn Defence, down to the thoughtfully curated playlist that informs each menu item’s name.
His emphasis on community ethos is also visible in his sourcing of ingredients from local suppliers.
The coffee served at Inn Defence is from Pure Roasters, a local company with a shared passion for music and community.
This partnership, like many others, was built on mutual respect and shared values.
It’s Darren’s way of giving back to the community that raised him, supporting other local businesses while creating a space that feels like home to everyone who walks through the door.
Looking ahead, Darren has plans to introduce new events, including open mic nights featuring comedy and spoken word.
These additions will further enrich the vibrant community space he has created.
Inn Defence stands out not just for its unique blend of café and record store, but for its unwavering commitment to community and local talent.
Darren has breathed new life into Dumbarton’s High Street – making a space where everyone feels welcome, and where the love of music and good food brings people together.

• Address: 141 High Street, Dumbarton G82 1LE
• Offerings: Record Store, Café, Burger Bar, Breakfast Rolls
• Opening Hours: Mon – Fri 8am – 6pm, Sat – Sun 12noon – 7pm
• Events: Sunday Sessions, Upcoming Open Mic Nights, and more