Being the capital city, it’s no doubt that there’s a pretty hefty amount of the best bars in Edinburgh to visit. From cool bars with bespoke cocktails, to fine brand whisky houses, Edinburgh has something for every taste.
You see, across the city, from the Royal Mile, Leith and George Street, there’s a huge mix of cool bars and historic pubs that’ll suit any taste. And, truth be told, after living in Edinburgh for a number of years, I’d come to try out quite a few of them.
This is exactly why I wanted to share some of my favourite and best bars in Edinburgh that I hope you’ll love. As I said, some are cool with amazing cocktails, whilst others are boozy spots for a little afternoon pub lunch and pint. Whatever the case, there’s hopefully a few that’ll tickle your fancy.
Take a look, below, at the best bars in Edinburgh to wet your whistle. Have the best trip.
1.) The Devil’s Advocate
The Devils Advocate is easily one of the best bars in Edinburgh that every visitor should try.
Perched between Princes Street and The Royal Mile, the Devil’s Advocate has some of the best mixologists in the city. It’s the perfect place to go for a late lunch and cocktails, especially after exploring all the best things to do across Edinburgh.
Head here to enjoy one of their famous cocktails, with an added Scottish flare. Their Foragers Club Cocktail is delicious.
2.) The Voodoo Rooms
The Voodoo Rooms embraces its period interior which is so iconic and totally gorgeous. Honestly, it creating a bar like no other in the capital.
From plush chesterfield sofas and ornate gold-leaf walls, this Voodoo rooms is a bar, restaurant and live music venue that has some award-winning cocktails. For one of the best cocktails in the city, try their ‘Curious Cucumber Party’. It’s so tasty.
If you can, try and visit on a weekend when they regularly host live music. Just book in advance if you want a table.
3.) Bannerman’s
A secret favourite amongst locals, Bannerman’s Whisky & Rock Bar is one of a kind.
Over the years, Bannerman’s has truly cemented itself as the one venue where up and coming artists regularly perform. It’s a great idea to check the listings before attending as some nights are ticketed and become very popular depending on the artist.
Just make sure to wear comfy shoes and be prepared for a few drinks splashed all over the place. This place gets buzzing when the bands perform. That being said, if you’re not looking for live music or rock – this might not be your type of spot.
Read more: Best things to do in Edinburgh
4.) Bennet’s Bar
Bennet’s Bar is almost 200 years old and a pretty history pub in the city.
Plus, it’s one of the best bars in Edinburgh to visit if you love Whiskey or a cask ale pint. take a trip over and try their single malt whisky and admire their historic stained glass that surrounds this venue.
Bennet’s Bar is definitely an understated venue for whisky lovers – even if you’re not a fan of the tipple, the venue alone makes the journey worthwhile.
5.) The Canny Man’s
The Canny Man’s is an upscale, old fashioned bar in Edinburgh. Full of character and Scottish charm, this bar is a perfect venue to explore the old curiosities that are across all the walls and ceilings of this most amazing venue. Around January they also host their own Burn’s Night Supper, which is amazing.
You’ll honestly have the best time, just make sure to line your tummy in preparation for all that whisky.
6.) Panda & Sons
Nestled on Queen Street, Panda & Sons has quickly become one of the best bars in Edinburgh for a cocktail.
Head inside for one of their ‘Life is Peachy’ cocktails or order something from their wine club. They have a hefty selection of crisp wines and cheese that are so amazing. It’s a sort of hidden gem in Edinburgh and a spot that most visitors miss when exploring the city.
7.) The Dome
Once an old historic bank building, The Dome is now one of the best bars in Edinburgh and totally iconic. The whole bar not only looks incredible (with a massive dome and chandeliers) but has some of the best drinks selection around.
Once here, make sure to visit around lunch for their afternoon tea and cocktails. It’s a little more expensive than other places in Edinburgh but well worth it.
8.) Blackbird
A popular haunt amongst locals, Blackbird is the perfect and one of the best bars in Scotland to score some cask ales and cider. They truly pride themselves on bringing some of the best artisan ciders from across the UK.
That being said, they’ve also got a hefty cocktail list too.
Read more: Best things to do in Edinburgh
9.) The Hanging Bat
Not as spooky as it sounds! Housed on Lothian Road, The Hanging bad is an intimate bar that is fast becoming one of the best bars in Edinburgh for beer and brews.
Not only is the Hanging Bat pretty cool, but they also serve some truly delicious gin that is distilled and filtered in Scotland itself. There’s just something about local gin blends that are so good, especially Scotland which I’d always assumed to be mainly whisky.
10.) The Abbotsford
The Abbotsford is the perfect example of the regal heritage of Edinburgh. This well-preserved Edwardian Pub is easily one of the best bars in Edinburgh to visit if you want a historic watering hole.
Once here, make sure to try their huge whisky selection that is written on chalk on the bar walls. It really is a great spot in the city and a perfect place to chill before dinner.
11.) Tonic
Tonic, on New Castle Street, is a trendy little cocktail spot that’s easily one of the best bars in Edinburgh. A perfect starting point for a night on the town. Expect lots of delicious drinks and plenty of dancing. It’s a fun little spot.
Read more: Best things to do in Edinburgh
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