LGBTQ+

From cosy pubs with real ale to buzzing nightclubs with fabulous cocktails and DJ nights, Edinburgh has lots of friendly and safe hangouts for the LGBTQ+ community.

You'll find a lot of venues focused at the top of Leith Walk and across to Broughton Street, known locally as the 'Pink Triangle'.

CC Blooms

[Image credit: CC Blooms Facebook]

23-24 Greenside Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3AA

Edinburgh's most established LGBTQ+ venue, CC Blooms opened its doors in 1994. Named after Bette Midler's character in the film Beaches, CC Blooms serves up great cocktails, tasty food and a welcoming atmosphere.

During the day you can watch the world go by in their outdoor seating area, while at night you can dance the night away in the club or check out their dedicated basement party space, LAB. 

Fans of cabaret should check out the Church of High Kicks, which is on every Sunday night with live performances, dancing and music. On Tuesday night CC Blooms hosts the club night Rabbit Hole which boasts some of the city's best drag performers.

The Regent Bar

[Image credit: The Regent Facebook]

2 Montrose Terrace, Edinburgh, EH7 5DL

Enjoy real ales and good pub grub at this relaxed and inclusive bar in the Abbeyhill area of Edinburgh. The Regent Bar is a great place to enjoy a chilled-out pint with a great range of rotating guest ales. The food menu includes a wide range of comfort food and a good selection of vegetarian dishes.

As you relax in the comfy sofas, why not enjoy one of their table-top games, or bring your own! 

While it advertises itself as a LGBTQ+ venue, everyone (including dogs) is welcome at this easygoing haunt. 

The Street

[Image credit: The Street Facebook]

2b Picardy Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3JT

On the corner of the Pink Triangle you'll find The Street, an independently owned café bar with friendly staff. By day, the glass front and outdoor seating area makes a great place to people-watch, while at night the bar attracts a lively crowd with a buzzing atmosphere.

On Friday and Saturday nights you'll find resident DJs keeping the party going into the wee hours, joined by live percussion, saxophone, vocalists and more. Want to strike a pose? Then don't leave The Street without paying a visit to their vintage-style black & white photo booth, where you can get your very own personal memento to take home. 

Every Wednesday, The Street hosts weekly gameshow 'Prize Surprise' hosted by Ryan and Trendy Wendy. With gameshow games like Supermarket Sweet, The Wheel of Misfortune and a live singalong, this is one unforgettable night that's not to be missed.  

Victoria Bar

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Victoria Bar (@victorialeith)

265 Leith Walk, Edinburgh, EH6 8PD

A cosy bar with a great selection of drinks, Victoria Bar is an inclusive friendly bar that welcomes everyone - from Leith locals to worldwide travellers. 

They offer an ever-changing selection of beers, wines, gins and whiskies. Don't see your favourite drink? Don't worry, they can whip up just about any drink you fancy, just ask!

Planet 

[Image credit: Planet Facebook]

6 Baxter's Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3AF

Right next door to CC Bloom's you'll find Planet, Edinburgh’s longest running gay bar.

This buzzing bar is renowned for its friendly crowd, where you can expect reasonably-priced drinks and daily entertainment. 

Expect DJs every night of the week, including Drag DJs on Thursdays and Sundays. Showtime Fridays bring you amazing local and international Drag Queens every week - past line-ups have included winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK 2019, The Vivienne, and finalist Baga Chipz. Karaoke is every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. They also host retro nights on Mondays, and Bingo on Thursdays. 

As well as being involved with several local LGBT charities and campaigns. Planet are also a sponsor of of Hot Scots, Scotland’s first LGBT football team.

Paradise Palms

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Paradise Palms (@edinburghpalms)

41 Lothian Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1HB

Paradise Palms is a LGBTQ+ friendly venue is well-known for its award-winning vegetarian food, local and international beers and live music. 

While there, be sure to visit Paradise Vinyl, situated in the bar. Selling vinyl releases from local and international acts plus curated second-hand disco & electronic gold, it also has zines, books, clothes, as well as items from local artists on sale.

Habana

22 Greenside Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3AA

In the same building as the Edinburgh Playhouse you'll find Habana, a buzzing, welcoming LGBTQ+ bar.

Habana hosts a range of DJs during the week, spanning music genres from pop to dance. Fancy taking centre stage for yourself? Then keep an eye out for their regular karaoke nights! 

Pride Edinburgh

[Image credit: Pride Edinburgh Facebook]

Scotland's first Pride march took place in Edinburgh in 1995. The city now hosts Pride Edinburgh every year around June or July, where people from all backgrounds gather to celebrate diversity and personal identity in Scotland's capital.

As well as the march, the free Edinburgh Pride festival boasts a full and fun programme of live music, health and community fair and lots more. 

Keep an eye on their Facebook page for annoucements of 2023's programme.