There's no denying that winter is well and truly on its way. And whatever you get up to - whether it's exploring the festive markets or enjoying a chilly, scenic ramble - you'll no doubt need to take shelter at some point to warm yourself through. After tackling the biting winds that whistle through the city's cobbled streets, defrost at one of these cosy pubs and bars in Edinburgh.
Last edited by Lauren Cole
Last updated on 31st October 2023
When it comes to cosy bars in Edinburgh Old Town, The Devil's Advocate comes out on top. Found down one of the city's many winding alleys, this former pump house is now a wonderland of tasty cocktails, authentic Scottish cuisine and over 300 delicious varieties of whisky.
When there's a chill in the air, there's no better place than The Bon Vivant. While surrounded by vintage posters, wooden columns and candlelight, knock back a warming red glass of wine (or two), paired with dishes like bavette steak accompanied by new potatoes and spring greens.
Flaunting a toasty fireplace, gorgeous floral decor and comfy leather booths, Black Ivy is a great shout for all the cosy vibes. You'll get to chow down on the likes of Scottish steak and Thai mango salads, alongside freshly brewed pints and cocktails.
The Conan Doyle is a traditional pub in Edinburgh that's drenched in history. Located just down the road from Picardy Place, this watering hole looks straight out of the Victorian era, boasting gilded portraits and cosy candlelit tables. Plus, it's a great spot for delicious comfort food bites and refreshing pints.
Boasting moody interiors, from the dark wooden floorboards to the intimate lighting, The Alchemist Edinburgh St James Quarter is as cosy as can be. Settle in for a night quaffing molecular cocktails and tucking into international small plates.
If sipping cocktails in elegant surroundings sounds like your idea of a fantastic Friday night, be sure to check out The Raging Bull. For a blustery day, we recommend ordering the 'autumn sour' - a warming mix of bourbon, rosemary syrup, blackberry jam, lemon and bitters.
On the hunt for cosy pubs in Edinburgh? BrewDog on Lothian Road will be calling your name on chilly winter days. Shed your jackets and warm up with a craft beer, plus dig into juicy burgers and loaded wings. Even better, your dog is welcome to join you and eat for free.
After cosy pubs in Edinburgh Old Town? The Haymarket is as homely as they get. The old school boozer serves up a tasty pie and mash and other comforting British staples, plus all kinds of cask ales, beers, gins and whiskies to keep you warm. You can tell why this one's a local favourite.
The Southsider is an old Edinburgh pub that's ideal for getting cosy in tartan booths, huddled at a corner nook or in front of sports on the screen. With traditional tartan for an old-school look and British grub to boot, it's a winner all round.
You can't deny that Lady Libertine is one of the most cosy bars in Edinburgh city centre. Whether you fancy stopping by the Wine Cafe or the basement space, you'll be treated to Art Deco-style interiors, gorgeous cocktails and indulgent fare to boot.
After cosy drinking and dining destinations? Porty Vault is a great shout for quaint catch-ups and casual first dates. The venue slings out scrumptious American BBQ platters, alongside freshly pulled pints, wine and cocktails.
A traditional Scottish boozer located on the Royal Mile, The Mitre has a reputation as one of the city's most warm and welcoming places to drink. This quiet pub in Edinburgh offers a wide range of local cask ales, as well as a selection of hearty dishes; it really is the perfect pitstop after a day of pounding the pavement.
Though famed as the city's oldest cocktail bar, Dragonfly has been lovingly looked after, now flaunting glistening chandeliers, tall ceilings and an ornate wooden bar. Swing by one of the most cosy bars in Edinburgh for couples to guzzle signature sips that'll warm your cockles through.
If you're looking for cosy pubs in Edinburgh city centre, make sure to check out The Kenilworth. Dating back to 1904, this old fashioned boozer boasts leather booth seats and ornate wooden detailing all around the shop, not to mention a lip-smacking menu of classic Scottish grub.
For a cosy day snuggling up next to a fireplace with a dram of whisky to hand, it has to be Hector's. The Stockbridge hangout also fronts one of the best Sunday roasts in town, offering you plates piled high with succulent meats or veggie alternatives, served alongside golden tatties and fluffy Yorkshire puds.
Nightcap has to be one of the best cosy bars in Edinburgh New Town. The intimate bolthole is equal parts snug and stylish, with original stone brick walls, quirky knick-knacks and moody neon lighting. Plus the cocktail menu? It's something to be reckoned with.
A speakeasy bar that harks back to Scotland's whisky bootlegging days, this Princes Street haunt has a reputation for its extensive drinks menu and Neapolitan-inspired pizzas. Feast on haggis and black pudding-topped slices while quaffing handcrafted cocktails over at Cask Smugglers.
As one of the most cosy pubs in Edinburgh with a view, Cold Town House is the perfect place to snuggle up with a craft beer and a slice of stonebaked pizza. Grab a seat on the heated terrace or perch yourself by the huge brick oven while enjoying a wealth of live entertainment, from music to cabaret and comedy.
Searching for pubs with open fires in Edinburgh? Say hello to The Last Word Saloon - the ultra-cosy Stockbridge spot that comes decked out with twinkling candles, faux fur throws and warming tipples aplenty. As it features regular live music and a dog-friendly policy, you'd be hard-pushed to find a more idyllic hideaway.
Bramble Bar is the ideal setting for a romantic date night. Hidden beneath a dry cleaner, this secret cocktail lounge can be found down a narrow staircase. Once inside, you'll be able to knock back a variety of tipples, from Jamaican-inspired sips to a traditional old fashioned.
With a kitchen run by two Michelin-starred chefs, The Scran & Scallie is a gastropub showcasing a seriously scrumptious menu. It's also one of the most cosy pubs in Edinburgh for couples, with Scandi-inspired interiors, a log-burning fire, exposed brickwork and snuggle-worthy throws.
