Bars Near Me in Edinburgh: 15 Best Bars to Visit in Scotland’s Capital
Looking for the best bars near me in Edinburgh? Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, searching for craft cocktails, enjoying live music, or looking for a traditional Scottish pub, Edinburgh has an incredible bar scene to suit every taste.
From the historic streets of the Old Town to the stylish venues in New Town and the vibrant bars of Leith, you’ll find everything from cosy whisky pubs to rooftop terraces, cocktail lounges, and lively sports bars.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the best bars in Edinburgh to help you enjoy an unforgettable evening.
1. Panda & Sons
Hidden behind the façade of an old barber shop, Panda & Sons is one of Edinburgh’s most famous speakeasy-style cocktail bars.
Must Try
- Signature Cocktails
- Scottish Gin Creations
- Whisky-Based Drinks
Best For: Date nights and cocktail lovers.
2. The Devil’s Advocate
Located in a historic Victorian building near the Royal Mile, The Devil’s Advocate offers an impressive whisky collection and creative cocktails.
Popular Drinks
- Single Malt Whisky
- Old Fashioned
- Scottish Craft Beer
Perfect for visitors exploring the Old Town.
3. The Hanging Bat
A favourite among craft beer enthusiasts, The Hanging Bat features rotating taps showcasing local and international breweries.
Highlights
- Craft Beer Flights
- Gourmet Burgers
- Weekly Beer Events
4. Bramble Bar & Lounge
Frequently ranked among the UK’s best cocktail bars, Bramble is known for expertly crafted drinks and a relaxed underground atmosphere.
Recommended
- Espresso Martini
- Negroni
- Seasonal Cocktails
5. Cold Town House
Located in the Grassmarket, Cold Town House offers rooftop seating with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle.
Customer Favourites
- Wood-Fired Pizza
- House Lager
- Frozen Cocktails
Ideal for summer evenings.
6. The Bow Bar
The Bow Bar is one of Edinburgh’s best traditional pubs, famous for its outstanding whisky and real ale selection.
Must Try
- Scottish Whisky
- Local Ales
- Craft Beer
Perfect for whisky enthusiasts.
7. Copper Blossom
Copper Blossom combines stylish interiors with a wide selection of cocktails, wines, and sharing plates.
Excellent for:
- Brunch
- Evening Drinks
- Celebrations
8. Tigerlily
One of Edinburgh’s trendiest venues, Tigerlily offers a lively atmosphere, premium cocktails, and modern dining.
Perfect for:
- Weekend Nights
- Birthday Parties
- Group Gatherings
9. The Scotch Whisky Experience Bar
If you’re interested in Scotland’s national drink, this venue offers an extensive whisky collection alongside expert tasting experiences.
Great for tourists and whisky beginners.
10. Hoot The Redeemer
Inspired by vintage amusement arcades, Hoot The Redeemer serves creative cocktails in a fun, colourful setting.
Popular Choices
- Frozen Cocktails
- Signature Drinks
- Sharing Cocktails
11. The Ensign Ewart
Situated near Edinburgh Castle, this historic pub offers one of the city’s finest whisky selections.
Recommended
- Rare Scotch Whisky
- Local Craft Beer
- Traditional Scottish Food
12. BrewDog Edinburgh
Craft beer lovers will appreciate BrewDog’s extensive range of beers brewed in Scotland and beyond.
Popular menu items include:
- IPA Selection
- Burgers
- Loaded Fries
13. The Last Word Saloon
A hidden cocktail bar offering classic drinks with exceptional attention to detail.
Perfect for relaxed evenings.
14. The Black Cat
Known for its welcoming atmosphere, affordable drinks, and regular live music, The Black Cat is a favourite among locals.
Ideal for casual nights out.
15. Nauticus – Leith
Located in the vibrant Leith neighbourhood, Nauticus celebrates Edinburgh’s maritime heritage while serving excellent cocktails and Scottish spirits.
A fantastic choice for exploring beyond the city centre.
Best Bars in Edinburgh by Category
| Category | Best Bar |
|---|---|
| Best Overall | Panda & Sons |
| Best Cocktails | Bramble Bar |
| Best Whisky Bar | The Devil’s Advocate |
| Best Traditional Pub | The Bow Bar |
| Best Rooftop Bar | Cold Town House |
| Best Craft Beer | The Hanging Bat |
| Best Live Atmosphere | Tigerlily |
| Best Hidden Gem | The Last Word Saloon |
Best Areas for Bars in Edinburgh
If you’re searching for bars near me in Edinburgh, these neighbourhoods offer excellent nightlife:
Old Town
Perfect for historic pubs, whisky bars, and tourist favourites near the Royal Mile.
New Town
Home to stylish cocktail lounges, wine bars, and upscale venues.
Grassmarket
Known for lively pubs, rooftop bars, and outdoor seating with castle views.
Leith
A trendy waterfront district with independent bars, craft beer venues, and creative cocktail spots.
Stockbridge
Ideal for cosy pubs, relaxed wine bars, and local favourites.
Tips for Enjoying Edinburgh’s Nightlife
- Visit early on Fridays and Saturdays to avoid long queues.
- Reserve a table if you’re planning to visit a popular cocktail bar.
- Try a local Scotch whisky tasting for an authentic Scottish experience.
- Many bars offer happy hour promotions during weekdays.
- Use public transport or licensed taxis if you’re planning a late night out.
Discover More Local Businesses on VyaparGrow
Looking for more than just bars near me in Edinburgh?
VyaparGrow is your trusted online business directory, helping you discover restaurants, cafés, pubs, hotels, beauty salons, shopping destinations, healthcare providers, and local services across the UK.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, looking for the best places to eat, or searching for trusted local businesses, VyaparGrow helps you find highly rated options in just a few clicks.
Why Choose VyaparGrow?
- Browse verified business listings.
- Read genuine customer reviews and ratings.
- Compare local businesses before visiting.
- Discover restaurants, bars, cafés, and services across the UK.
- Explore regularly updated travel and local business guides.
Own a Bar or Local Business?
If you own a bar, pub, restaurant, or local business in Edinburgh, listing your business on VyaparGrow can help you reach more customers and improve your online visibility.
Final Thoughts
Edinburgh’s bar scene offers something for everyone, from cosy traditional pubs and whisky bars to stylish rooftop venues and award-winning cocktail lounges. Whether you’re exploring the historic Old Town, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket, or discovering hidden gems in Leith, you’ll find plenty of memorable places to enjoy a drink.
If you’re searching for bars near me in Edinburgh, these venues are among the city’s top choices for quality drinks, excellent service, and unforgettable experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best bars in Edinburgh?
Some of the most popular bars include Panda & Sons, Bramble Bar, The Devil’s Advocate, Cold Town House, Tigerlily, and The Bow Bar.
Where is the best nightlife in Edinburgh?
The Old Town, New Town, Grassmarket, and Leith are among the best areas for bars, pubs, cocktail lounges, and late-night entertainment.
Are Edinburgh bars suitable for families?
Many pubs and restaurants welcome families during the daytime, while some cocktail bars and late-night venues are intended for adults only.
Do I need to book a table?
Reservations are recommended for popular cocktail bars and busy weekends, especially during festivals and holiday periods.