Edinburgh · Where to Drink
Best Bars in Edinburgh
Edinburgh has one of the best bar scenes in the UK. From historic pubs tucked into cobbled streets to stylish cocktail bars and whisky specialists, the city offers something for every kind of night out. The venues below represent some of the best places in Edinburgh to enjoy drinks and experience the city's atmosphere, from traditional Scottish pub culture to modern cocktail bars.
Top Bars in Edinburgh
The Devil's Advocate (Old Town)
Whisky selection and atmospheric setting.
Located down a narrow close near the Royal Mile, with exposed brick, wooden beams, and a warm atmosphere. Known for an extensive whisky selection and strong cocktail menu.
Drinks £6 to £12
Panda & Sons (New Town)
Creative cocktails in a hidden speakeasy.
Disguised as a barber shop, the entrance leads to a stylish underground bar. The cocktail menu is inventive, with drinks presented in creative ways. Lively but refined.
Drinks £10 to £15
Bramble Bar & Lounge (New Town)
One of the best cocktail bars in the UK.
Widely regarded as one of Edinburgh's top cocktail bars. Relaxed, underground setting with a focus on well-executed classic cocktails rather than flashy presentation.
Drinks £9 to £14
The Bow Bar (Old Town)
Traditional Scottish pub experience.
A classic Edinburgh pub near the Royal Mile. Known for a wide selection of Scottish whiskies and real ales in a simple, authentic atmosphere with a strong local feel.
Reasonably priced
Hoot the Redeemer (New Town)
Fun and interactive cocktail experience.
A unique cocktail bar inspired by vintage fairgrounds. Guests can even spin a wheel to decide their drink. Playful and energetic, a great option for groups.
Cocktails £10 to £14
Teuchters Landing (Leith)
Waterfront pub with a local feel.
A relaxed pub by the water in Leith. Known for a solid whisky selection and outdoor seating. Friendly and local, great for a more laid-back evening.
Pub prices
The Alchemist (St James Quarter)
Theatrical cocktails and central location.
Known for visually impressive cocktails featuring smoke and unusual presentation. Modern bar experience in a central setting near the St James Quarter.
Drinks £10 to £15
Nauticus (Leith)
Modern bar with a strong local identity.
A stylish Leith bar focused on Scottish spirits and ingredients. The design reflects the area's maritime history. Carefully curated drinks menu and a relaxed atmosphere.
Pub to cocktail range
Cold Town House (Grassmarket)
Rooftop drinks with castle views.
Offers a rooftop bar overlooking Edinburgh Castle, one of the most scenic places to enjoy a drink in the city. Beers, cocktails, and food. Especially popular in warmer months.
Drinks £6 to £12
Quick Picks
What to Drink in Edinburgh
Scotch whisky
Scotland's most famous spirit, available in many varieties.
Local ales
Many pubs serve Scottish craft beers.
Gin
Scotland has a growing gin scene with many local distilleries.
Classic cocktails
Widely available in cocktail bars across the city.
Best Areas in Edinburgh for Bars
Old Town
Historic pubs and central locations, including The Bow Bar and The Devil's Advocate.
New Town
Known for cocktail bars and a more modern feel, including Panda & Sons and Bramble.
Leith
A local atmosphere with waterfront bars including Teuchters Landing and Nauticus.
Grassmarket
Popular for lively evenings and scenic views of Edinburgh Castle.
Local Tips for Edinburgh's Bar Scene
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