Edinburgh’s Pubs: History, Hops, and How to Not Look Lost
Edinburgh isn’t all castles and kilts—there are pubs that’ll make you forget the Stone of Destiny even exists. From hidden speakeasies to centuries-old taverns where the locals still debate who invented haggis (hint: it’s probably not Burns), this city’s pubs are the real deal. And if you’re the type who prefers beer over bagpipes, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the best pubs in Edinburgh, because let’s face it, you’re here for the alcohol and maybe some vague historical context.
1. The Scotch Malt Whisky Society – For When You’re Pretending to Be a Scotch Connoisseur
Address: 30–32 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2PL
What’s the deal? This isn’t just a pub—it’s a temple to Scotland’s finest. With over 1,200 casks of single-malt whisky, this place is basically the Hogwarts of scotch. You’ll find everything from peaty Islay drams to sweet Speyside pours. The interior is all dark wood and leather, and the staff are so knowledgeable they’ll make you question if you’ve been drinking the wrong stuff your whole life.
Why you should go: To impress someone with your whisky jargon or to finally admit you don’t know the difference between a double and a triple cask finish. Also, the bar is open until 2am, so you’ve got plenty of time to find out.
Need help making your own whisky-inspired drinks at home? Check out Make Your Own Beer for tips on crafting your next masterpiece.
2. The Sheep Heid Inn – Because Nostalgia Is a Tonic
Address: 25 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2HH
What’s the deal? This pub has been around since the 1600s, which means it’s older than your grandpa’s stories. It’s a favorite of royalty (yes, even the kings and queens with the weird beards) and currently serves as a live music venue. The bar is cozy, the atmosphere is warm, and the beer menu includes a solid range of local ales and lagers.
Why you should go: For the history, the live folk music, and to pretend you’re in a period drama where everyone is mysteriously drunk at 3pm. Pro tip: Ask for the “Scotch Egg” if you’re hungry. It’s a pub classic, and it’s basically a snack that’s been waiting for you since the 1800s.
Want to create your own themed pub menu? Custom Beer can help you design drinks that’ll make your guests question their life choices.
3. The Coach and Horses – For When You Need a Quiet Garden Break from the City
Address: 24–26 Candlemakers Row, Edinburgh EH1 2ER
What’s the deal? Tucked away behind the Royal Mile, this pub has a hidden garden that’s like a secret speakeasy for people who don’t want to deal with Edinburgh’s tourist traps. It’s got a great selection of real ales from local breweries, and the vibe is more “chill” than “chaotic.” The bar is small, so if you want a seat, arrive before 7pm or be prepared to stand and maybe make a new friend who’s also standing.
Why you should go: To escape the tourist hordes and enjoy a pint in a garden that’s technically a time capsule of 19th-century Edinburgh. Also, the pork pies are legendary. Don’t fight us on this.
Need help selling your own beer in places like this? Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer has tips for local breweries looking to expand their reach.
4. The King’s Arms – For the Bold and the Boldly Drunken
Address: 163 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1QR
What’s the deal? This pub is right on the Royal Mile, which means it’s got a ton of tourists, but it’s also got a great selection of craft beers and a bar that serves as a gateway to the underground (literally—there’s a tunnel that leads to a speakeasy-style basement bar). The King’s Arms is known for its bold flavors and even bolder patrons. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a drag queen or a poet slinging verses between pints.
Why you should go: To experience the full Edinburgh pub spectrum—from tourists snapping selfies by the castle to locals debating the merits of haggis versus black pudding. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try the “Black Friday” ale. It’s dark, it’s strong, and it’ll make you question your life choices in the best way.
Want to start your own pub business? Contact our team for expert advice and a free consultation that won’t cost you more than a pint.
5. The Spaniards – For When You Need to Pretend You’re in Spain
Address: 12–14 The Cockburn, Edinburgh EH1 2PT
What’s the deal? Despite its name, this pub is all about the beer. It’s got a great selection of IPAs, stouts, and lagers, and the vibe is more “casual” than “pretentious.” The bar is sleek, the lighting is just right, and the staff are friendly enough that you might actually want to come back. They also serve tapas, which is a fancy way of saying “food that’s good enough to justify another drink.”
Why you should go: To enjoy a craft beer in a pub that’s less about the history and more about the hops. Plus, the tapas menu is perfect for when you’re trying to remember the difference between a stout and a porter (spoiler: we don’t either).
Looking to sell your beer in places like The Spaniards? Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer to reach pubs across the UK.
5 Tips for Navigating Edinburgh’s Pub Scene Like a Pro
- 1. Don’t Rely on Google Maps – Half the fun is getting lost in the cobblestone alleys. Just follow the smell of whisky and the sound of someone yelling “Gin and tonic, please!”
- 2. Know the Closing Times – Pubs in Edinburgh close at 11pm, but some have late-night bars. Don’t get stuck in the middle of a pub crawl at 10:59pm.
- 3. Check for Live Music – Many pubs host sessions on weekends. It’s the perfect excuse to pretend you know how to play the fiddle.
- 4. Ask the Staff – They’ll know the best local brews and can point you to the nearest pub with a garden. Pro tip: They won’t judge your questionable fashion choices.
- 5. Embrace the Queue – Some pubs get busy, especially near the castle. Grab a queue number and use the time to mentally prepare for another round.
FAQs: The Pub Questions You’re Too Drunk to Ask
1. Are These Pubs Dog-Friendly?
Some are! The Coach and Horses has a garden that’s great for dogs, as long as they don’t mind sharing their treat with a stranger’s terrier.
2. What’s the Best Pub for a First-Time Visitor?
The Sheep Heid Inn is a must. It’s got history, live music, and a vibe that makes you feel like you’re part of a story that’s already written.
3. Can I Order a Non-Alcoholic Drink in These Pubs?
Yes, but they’ll judge you for it. Just order a “mocktail” and act like you’ve been doing it for years.
4. What’s the Best Time to Visit?
Weekdays at 5pm, when the locals are still sober enough to talk to you about the weather.
5. Are There Any Pubs with a View?
The King’s Arms has a balcony with a view of the castle. Just don’t try to take a photo without spilling your drink.
Final Cheers: Raise a Glass to Edinburgh’s Best Pubs
Edinburgh’s pubs are more than just places to drink—they’re time machines, social clubs, and occasionally, venues for questionable life decisions. Whether you’re here for the history, the whisky, or just to forget your worries in a cozy corner bar, these pubs have you covered. So grab a pint, lose yourself in the charm, and remember: in Edinburgh, the pubs are the real stars.
Want to start your own beer business or sell your brews in these pubs? Strategies.beer has the tools and expertise to help you raise a glass to success.
