Best Edinburgh Pubs

Boasting a charming plot of bold boozers, our city knows a thing or two about afternoon drinks and top-notch grub. Whether you're looking for a craft beer bar, are ready to dose on Sunday roasts, or just have a hankering for a simple pint, these spots have it all. Check out our recommendations for the best pubs in Edinburgh and give those hearty hops a good seeing-to. 

Last updated on 25th May 2023




Tron

One of the best pubs in Edinburgh Old Town, Tron is known for its fun atmosphere, live music and sports screenings, while being just a stone's throw from the Royal Mile. Adding to the entertainment are freshly poured pints and bottomless pizza brunches.

The Mitre

The Mitre serves all the cask, keg and bottled beers you could want, along with a selection of exotic wines and rare whiskies. Offering a seasonal menu of classic British cuisine, it lets guests gobble down juicy burgers alongside traditional haggis, neeps and tatties.

Doctors

One of the friendliest pubs in the city centre, Doctors is an iconic Edinburgh spot. Perched on the corner of Forest Road and located opposite the grand McEwan Hall, it's favoured by tourists, students and locals alike for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. 

The Theatre Royal Bar

On the hunt for old pubs in Edinburgh? Just a stone's throw from the Playhouse, The Theatre Royal Bar is a top spot for pre and post-show dining. As it whips up a selection of locally sourced dishes, you can dig into everything from juicy burgers to pan-fried Shetland salmon.

The Pear Tree

Boasting one of the city's best beer gardens, this classic pub in the Old Town fronts a huge outdoor screen perfect for big sports games. But that's not all, as inside The Pear Tree, you'll find warm, friendly locals around the bar enjoying tip-top scran too.

The Hanging Bat

Toting sic casks, 14 keg lines and 120+ bottles or cans of beer, The Hanging Bat is more than well stocked for a boozy weekend session. Bag yourself one of the comfy red leather sofas or head outside to the quaint picnic tables for an alfresco tipple.

The White Hart Inn

Another one of Edinburgh's old favourites, this 18th-century boozer has previously been named as the city's most haunted pub following rumours of a ghostly girl in a red dress wandering its corridors. Go check The White Hart Inn out, if you dare. 

Golf Tavern

Having opened back in 1456, Golf Tavern is a beautiful, old school boozer with bucketloads of charm. Make your way over to this much-loved haunt for gorge-worthy gastro grub, classic cocktails, Scottish whiskies and even a free golf course.

Biddy Mulligans

When it comes to live music Edinburgh pubs, Biddy Mulligans should be on your go-to list. It's wonderfully cosy, with dark wood interiors and ambient lighting, while it also showcases Irish fare and breakfast bites, with acoustic performances every day.

The Scran & Scallie

The Scran & Sallie is not only known for its top-notch menu (curated by two Michelin-starred chefs), but also its super-chic interiors. From plush mahogany chairs draped in throws to exposed brickwork and cosy fireplaces, it really is one of the best gastropubs in Edinburgh.