Where to Find the Best Traditional Pubs in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is one of the most stunning cities to explore and one of the best places to grab a beer and look out over an amazing view. There are many traditional pubs in the area, but finding the perfect place to enjoy the traditional atmosphere can be tricky. Don’t worry though – we’ve rounded up the best traditional pubs in Edinburgh so you can plan your pub crawl around the city in no time!The Royal Mile, with its cobbled streets and grand buildings, is a great place to start your pub crawl. Many of the pubs in this area have been around for centuries, and here you can experience the unique atmosphere that only these ancient pubs can provide. The Royal Mile contains several traditional pubs that offer real ales, hearty pub snacks and an extensive selection of whisky. Here are some of the best traditional pubs located on or around the Royal Mile to enjoy a pint in!

• Royal Mile Tavern – Just off the Royal Mile, this family run pub has been owned by the same family since 1907. Real ales and spirits are served here with a great range of pub snacks. The basement is also home to a whisky bar stocking hundreds of local and international whiskies.
• Bow Bar – Located on Victoria Street, the Bow Bar is renowned for its selection of real ales. This small and atmospheric bar offers an excellent selection of cask ales, lagers and whisky, as well as traditional pub snacks.
• Jolly Boatman – This traditional bar has been trading since at least 1872, and is still a popular place with locals today. The floor-to-ceiling windows fill it with light, and there’s a great selection of real ales, lagers and whiskies on offer.
• Crown Pub – This traditional pub on Lawmoor Street is a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The interior is full of character, with broad leather chairs, wooden panels and an open fire. Real ales and whiskies are served here.

In addition to these excellent pubs on or around the Royal Mile, there are also several traditional pubs to explore in other areas of the city. Grassmarket is a great area to explore for more traditional atmosphere as it’s home to many old pubs that have been established for hundreds of years. Here are some of the best pubs in this area:

• Excess Lane – Located at the Bottom of Grassmarket, this bar has an incredible range of over 150 whiskies available! They also serve craft beers, ales and ciders, as well as traditional pub snacks.
• Last Drop Inn – This small bar offers a great atmosphere and decor that reflects its long history. It’s a great place to sit back and relax with a pint or sample one of their many whiskies.
• Magdala Tavern – This vintage pub underwent refurbishment in 2013 but has kept its charm intact! There’s a wide selection of drinks available here, as well as delicious food.

No matter which area of Edinburgh you decide to explore, there’s sure to be a traditional pub just waiting to be explored. From the oldest pubs located on or around the Royal Mile to Grassmarket’s modern take on traditional pubs, there’s something for everyone here. So grab your friends and head out to sample some of Edinburgh’s best traditional pubs –you won’t be disappointed!

Insider’s Guide to Edinburgh’s Traditional Pubs

Edinburgh is a charming city that captures the heart of anyone who visits. It is famous for its historical landmarks, beautiful architecture, and lively pub culture. For visitors, the pub scene is an excellent way to meet locals and experience Scottish hospitality. In this insider’s guide, we will be exploring where to find the best traditional pubs in Edinburgh.

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is a must-visit location for anyone coming to Edinburgh. This famous street in the city’s Old Town is bustling with activity and lined with traditional pubs. The Abbotsford Bar is one of the most popular pubs on the Royal Mile, famous for its fine selection of whisky and real ales. The White Horse is another pub worth visiting, with its rich history dating back to 1742 and an excellent selection of Scottish beers.

Grassmarket

Grassmarket is another famous pub spot in Edinburgh. It is a historic marketplace located at the foot of Edinburgh Castle. The Last Drop is a traditional pub located here that is well-liked by tourists and locals alike. It offers a cozy atmosphere, Pub Quiz every Monday, and an extensive drink selection. If you are in town during the warmer months, make sure to visit the outdoor seating area at Maggie Dickson’s, a traditional Scottish pub named after a notorious local criminal.

New Town

New Town, Edinburgh’s first Georgian town, is known for its beautiful streets and elegant buildings. The historic townhouses nearby, drawing from that spirit, house some of the city’s most timeless pubs. The Cumberland Bar is one of them, with its wooden furniture and outdoor seating area, perfect for al fresco meals in the summer months. The Bow Bar is another pub worth visiting in New Town, with its unique atmosphere, friendly staff, and an extensive selection of beer and whisky.

Cultural Experiences

Edinburgh is steeped in history and fascinating culture, and visiting traditional pubs is a great way to experience that firsthand. Try traditional Scottish comfort food, like haggis and neeps, and savor Scotland’s national drink, whisky. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, pubs like The Blue Blazer offer exceptional tea and coffee, while The Brauhaus serves imported beer in a cozy atmosphere.

Local History

Edinburgh’s pubs are full of interesting stories and history, and a visit to these establishments can uncover some of Edinburgh’s most fascinating tales. For example, The Whistle Stop Barber Room is a unique barbershop and pub hybrid that has been a part of Edinburgh’s pub scene since the early 1900s. Meanwhile, Deacon Brodie’s Tavern is a pub named after the city’s notorious criminal, William Brodie, and is located where his workshop once stood.

Off-The-Beaten-Path

Edinburgh is full of hidden gems, and those willing to stray from the extensive tourist routes in the city center will be rewarded for their curiosity. The Sheep Heid Inn, Rugby Tavern Bar, and The Guildford Arms are just a few of the pubs that offer an authentic Scottish experience for those willing to venture further afield.

In conclusion, Edinburgh is full of traditional pubs that offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience Scottish hospitality, cuisine, and culture. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a pint of Scottish beer, try haggis and neeps with locals, or dive deep into the city’s rich cultural history, the pubs of Edinburgh offer a delightful way to experience all of it.