LGBTQ+ city guide

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’s (as it is commonly known) serves up great cocktails, tasty food and a welcoming atmosphere. During the day you can watch the world go by from their outdoor seating area, while in the evening you can dance the night away in the lively club.

Keep an eye on their social channels for details of forthcoming events, including the hugely popular Rabbit Hole club night which boasts some of the city’s best drag performers.

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 make 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 and white photo booth, where you can get your very own personal momento to take home.

5 St Peter’s Building, Edinburgh, EH3 9PG

Not only is Kafe Kweer open for hot and cold drinks, breakfast pastries, soup and lunch options (all of which are vegan), this LGBTQ+ friendly café also doubles as a grocery store, gallery and art space.

Their regular event programme offers a variety of  fun activities, including art workshops, poetry and games nights, and tarot readings.

41 Lothian Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1HB

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

While there, be sure to visit their music partner, Paradise Vinyl. Selling vinyl from local and international acts plus curated second-hand disco and electronic gold, you can also pick up books, clothes and works by local artists.

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, a health and community fair and lots more.