Bars and pubs in Edinburgh

161 Lothian Rd, Edinburgh, EH3 9AA 

The cosy Raging Bull features rustic walls, marble tables, natural foliage and walls adorned with pictures of the namesake Bull. Make sure you try one of their famous coffee cocktails!

19A West Register Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2AA 

The Voodoo Rooms is a bar, restaurant and entertainment venue tucked away just off Princes Street and St Andrew Square. Often described by Edinburgh locals as a hidden gem, it has amassed a stack of awards.

The bar is particularly known for its classic cocktails, cutting-edge mixes, rums and tequilas. The building has several spaces which host a variety of events throughout the year – check out their website for details.

3-5 Rose Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2PR 

Located on Edinburgh’s iconic Rose Street, The Abbotsford is very much an Edinburgh classic. They serve a fantastic range of Scottish cask ales, the finest malt whisky and imported beers. If you fancy a traditional Edinburgh bar, look no further.

79 Queen Street, Edinburgh EH2 4NF 

Hidden under the guise of a vintage barber shop, Panda & Sons is one of the quirkiest places in the capital. This prohibition style speakeasy fused with vintage barber shop offers some of the most innovative cocktails in town.

20 Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2AN 

Talking of bars with a view: Juniper also offers a fantastic vista of the city, taking in the mighty Scott Monument and beautiful Balmoral Hotel.

If you want something really special, try one of their cocktails served with dry ice for a real photogenic treat. The ‘Strawberries and Steam’ sharing cocktail is particularly worth a try.

13 Hope Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4EL 

Every inch an Edinburgh classic, offering a skilful balance between historic features and contemporary class, it’s little wonder Whighams has been around since 1983.

It is located on the site of 19th century cellars and offers a notable selection of wines, champagnes and real ales, served in authentic and relaxing surroundings.

26 William Street, Edinburgh, EH3 7NH  

Teuchters Bar is well-known venue with Edinburgh’s rugby fans, thanks to its handy location for Murrayfield Stadium and Haymarket Train Station.

The pub has a huge whisky selection, boasting around 90 single malts. Feeling adventurous? Have a go at ‘hoop of destiny’, their famous hoopla game with the chance to win some whisky!

29-31 William Street, Edinburgh, EH3 7NH 

Step inside The Voyage of Buck and be transported to the early 1900s and home of philanthropist, polo player and world traveller William “Buck” Clarence.

The cocktail and food menus at this curious establishment have been inspired by Buck’s extensive travels, resulting in a unique and exciting selection. They also have a wide range of wines and a selection of craft beers available on rotation.

1A Rutland Place, Edinburgh, EH1 2AD 

A must for any gin fan, Heads and Tales specialise in offering an exciting list of gin cocktails. If gin isn’t for you, you can also choose from their great range of ‘Traitor Cocktails’ featuring vodka, rum or tequila.

For the perfect accompaniment, why not order some of their delicious small plates or cheese or charcuterie boards – perfect for sharing.

9 Advocate’s Close, Edinburgh, EH1 1ND 

The Devil’s Advocate is a cosy but stylish bar, a gem hidden in plain sight. This bar and restaurant just off the Royal Mile focuses on serving up the best local and seasonal produce and has over 300 whiskies to choose from.

143 Cowgate, Edinburgh, EH1 1JS 

Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, BrewDog is anything but old-fashioned. The styling is industrial, with exposed brick and stainless steel, but fret not, the atmosphere is warm and lively. The beer offering is vast and not just from the brand itself, which can be sampled in a range of measures.

54 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh, EH1 1EJ 

George IV Bar is a traditional Scottish public house bursting with charm and character.

Serving a wide and varied selection of drinks including over 100 different whiskies, a selection of assorted craft ales and sumptuous cocktails, they also provide a diverse menu of classic pub grub made using local seasonal ingredients

25 Forrest Road, Edinburgh, EH1 2QH 

‘Purveyors of fine ales and spirits. Home of world renowned folk music.’ The line above the door sums up what Sandy Bell’s is all about. This bar is small but what it lacks in square footage it makes up for in character.

It’s held in high esteem by residents and visitors alike as it is best known not only for excellent ales and spirits, but for its live music, which comes in many forms every night of the week.

47-49 Deanhaugh Street, Edinburgh, EH4 1LR 

Describing itself as ‘an eclectic mix of upbeat city pub and warm, friendly village local’, Hector’s is an established favourite with locals, be it for a post-work pint or a relaxed Sunday thirst-quencher. Ales, craft beers, ciders or homemade house tipples – Hector’s have something for everyone (and it’s dog friendly).

2-4 St Stephen Street, Edinburgh, EH3 5AL 

The Bailie Bar is every bit part of the Stockbridge community as its cobbled streets. The cosy, traditional basement bar is the location of many events from weekly quiz nights to the famous annual duck race. Pair this with a fine selection of Scottish cask ales and an open fire, and it makes a fine choice.

63-65 Henderson Street, Edinburgh, EH6 6ED 

Classic cocktails, local beers and fine French wine are served in the relaxed atmosphere of Three Marys Bar on Leith’s shore.

Curious about the name? It’s inspired by three famous Marys thought to be connected to the neighbourhood’s legendary past. Why not visit today and make up your own mind!