Edinburgh

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Pubs and Bars

Social hubs for traditional drinks, pub food, and a quintessential Scottish pub experience.

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Comprehensive Guide to Pubs and Bars in Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant pub and bar scene. The city offers a mix of traditional pubs steeped in history, modern cocktail bars, and quirky venues catering to all tastes. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate Edinburgh’s pub and bar culture.

1. Popular Venues

Traditional Pubs

  • The Royal Oak (In the Old Town)

    • Known for: Live folk music and a cozy, traditional atmosphere.
    • Drinks: A wide selection of Scottish ales and whiskies.
    • Price Range: £4–£6 per pint.
    • Unique Feature: A hub for local musicians and storytelling.

  • The Sheep Heid Inn (Duddingston Village)

    • Known for: Being one of Scotland’s oldest pubs, dating back to 1360.
    • Drinks: Local ales, craft beers, and an extensive whisky menu.
    • Food: Traditional pub fare like haggis, neeps, and tatties.
    • Price Range: £10–£20 for meals, £4–£6 for drinks.
    • Unique Feature: A historic skittle alley (bowling) you can try.

  • The Bow Bar (Victoria Street)

    • Known for: Its extensive whisky and craft beer selection.
    • Drinks: Over 300 whiskies and a rotating selection of cask ales.
    • Price Range: £4–£8 per drink.
    • Unique Feature: No music or TVs, creating a relaxed, conversation-friendly atmosphere.

Modern Bars

  • Panda & Sons (Queen Street)

    • Known for: A speakeasy-style bar hidden behind a faux barbershop entrance.
    • Drinks: Creative cocktails with a focus on presentation.
    • Price Range: £8–£12 per cocktail.
    • Unique Feature: The quirky, secretive vibe and inventive drink menu.

  • The Devil’s Advocate (Advocate’s Close)

    • Known for: Its industrial-chic design and whisky-focused menu.
    • Drinks: Over 200 whiskies and a range of craft cocktails.
    • Food: Seasonal Scottish dishes.
    • Price Range: £10–£20 for food, £8–£12 for drinks.
    • Unique Feature: Located in a historic close (alley) in the Old Town.

  • Bramble Bar & Lounge (Queen Street)

    • Known for: Being one of the best cocktail bars in the UK.
    • Drinks: Expertly crafted cocktails with a focus on fresh ingredients.
    • Price Range: £8–£12 per cocktail.
    • Unique Feature: Intimate, dimly lit setting with a focus on mixology.

Quirky and Themed Bars

  • The Banshee Labyrinth (Niddry Street)

    • Known for: Being “Scotland’s most haunted pub.”
    • Drinks: Affordable beers, spirits, and cocktails.
    • Price Range: £3–£6 per drink.
    • Unique Feature: A gothic vibe with free movie screenings and live music.

  • Hoot the Redeemer (Hanover Street)

    • Known for: A carnival-themed bar with quirky drinks.
    • Drinks: Slushie cocktails and alcoholic ice cream.
    • Price Range: £6–£10 per drink.
    • Unique Feature: A retro fortune-telling machine and playful decor.

2. Types of Drinks and Food Offered

  • Drinks:

    • Whisky: Scotland’s national drink is a must-try. Many pubs offer extensive whisky menus, including single malts and blends from various regions.
    • Ales and Beers: Local craft beers and cask ales are popular. Look for brews from Edinburgh-based breweries like Stewart Brewing and Caledonian Brewery.
    • Cocktails: Modern bars in Edinburgh are known for their creative and expertly crafted cocktails.
    • Gin: Scotland has a booming gin industry, and many bars feature locally distilled gins like Edinburgh Gin and Pickering’s Gin.

  • Food:

    • Traditional pub food includes haggis, fish and chips, steak pie, and Cullen skink (a creamy fish soup).
    • Many pubs also offer vegetarian and vegan options, as well as hearty Sunday roasts.

3. Price Ranges

  • Pints of Beer/Ale: £4–£6.
  • Whisky (Single Measure): £4–£10, depending on the rarity.
  • Cocktails: £8–£12.
  • Meals in Pubs: £10–£20 for mains, with some higher-end gastropubs charging more.

4. Local Customs and Etiquette

  • Ordering at the Bar: In most pubs, you order and pay for your drinks at the bar. Table service is rare unless you’re in a more upscale venue.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Leaving small change or rounding up the bill is common.
  • Rounds: It’s customary for groups to buy drinks in “rounds.” If someone buys you a drink, it’s polite to return the favor.
  • Closing Time: Most pubs close around 11 PM, though some have extended licenses until 1 AM. Bars and clubs may stay open until 3 AM.
  • Quiet Pubs: Many traditional pubs are quiet and conversation-focused, so keep noise levels respectful.

5. Unique Features and Experiences

  • Whisky Tastings: Many pubs and bars offer whisky flights or tastings, allowing you to sample a variety of Scottish whiskies.
  • Live Music: Traditional folk music is a staple in many pubs, especially in the Old Town.
  • Historic Atmosphere: Many pubs in Edinburgh are centuries old, with fascinating stories and connections to the city’s history.
  • Pub Crawls: Organized pub crawls are a great way to explore the city’s nightlife and meet fellow travelers.

6. Tips for Navigating the Pub and Bar Scene

  • Start Early: Pubs tend to get busy in the evenings, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a good spot.
  • Ask for Recommendations: Bartenders are usually knowledgeable and happy to recommend drinks, especially whiskies.
  • Dress Code: Most pubs are casual, but some upscale bars may have a smart-casual dress code.
  • Be Aware of Age Restrictions: The legal drinking age in Scotland is 18. Bring ID if you look younger.
  • Stay Safe: Edinburgh is generally safe, but always keep an eye on your belongings and drink responsibly.

7. Cultural and Historical Significance

Pubs in Edinburgh are more than just places to drink; they are integral to the city’s social and cultural fabric. Many have been around for centuries, serving as gathering places for locals and visitors alike. For example:

  • The World’s End Pub (High Street): Named after the historic city walls, which marked the edge of the city in medieval times.
  • Deacon Brodie’s Tavern (Royal Mile): Named after the infamous Deacon Brodie, a respected cabinetmaker by day and burglar by night, who inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

8. Considerations for Visitors

  • Alcohol Laws: Drinking in public places is generally prohibited in Edinburgh, so stick to licensed venues.
  • Accessibility: Many historic pubs have narrow staircases and limited accessibility. Check ahead if you have mobility concerns.
  • Non-Alcoholic Options: Most pubs offer non-alcoholic beers, soft drinks, and mocktails for those who don’t drink alcohol.

Edinburgh’s pub and bar scene offers something for everyone, from history buffs to cocktail enthusiasts. Whether you’re sipping a single malt in a centuries-old tavern or enjoying a creative cocktail in a hidden speakeasy, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. Cheers (or as the Scots say, Slàinte mhath)!