Come nightfall, the city of Edinburgh comes alive with a flurry of activity and excitement. And while most people are huddled inside their houses, others are out to have an unforgettable night. The best part about it is that you don’t necessarily have to travel far to enjoy a great evening. You see, in this beautiful city with cobbled streets and old buildings lies a plethora of pubs and bars where you can enjoy happy hour or any other time of day. In fact, there are so many places that you cannot possibly explore them all in one visit! If you’re planning on taking an unconventional night out in Edinburgh soon, we’ve got some insider information for you. Here is our list of the top 10 bars in the city that won’t disappoint when it comes to atmosphere and drinks:
1. The Cafe Bar
You can’t talk about the top 10 bars in Edinburgh without mentioning the Cafe Bar. It is one of the oldest bars in the city and has been a popular destination for locals and tourists ever since it opened in 1927. It is located at the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town and is a great place to go for a quick drink or a meal. As the name suggests, the Cafe Bar is also known for its wide range of coffees and teas. Other beverages include a variety of craft beers and wines. The Cafe Bar is also known for its light and airy atmosphere, where you can sit back, relax and enjoy the music or the live band while you sip on your drink. And during the winter months, you can enjoy the music indoors while sipping on your favorite drink inside a warm booth.
2. Brussels
If you’re looking for a bar with a difference, then head to Brussels. This bar not only sells great beer but also boasts about having one of the best burgers in Edinburgh. So, if you’re hungry and thirsty, Brussels is the place for you! This tiny pub has been around for almost five decades and is visited by regulars and tourists alike. It may not be a fancy joint, but it sure packs a lot of punch! Brussels prides itself on its traditional Belgian beers, great food, and excellent service.
3. Canon’s Court
If you love a bit of history while having a drink, then Canon’s Court is the place for you. This bar is named after Canon’s Close, which is an old alley just around the corner. On the inside, you will find that the place has been carefully preserved, giving you an idea of how a pub or a bar in Edinburgh would have looked during the 17th century. Canon’s Court is one of the most romantic places in Edinburgh and is the perfect destination for a date. You can enjoy a quiet drink while taking in the old architecture. Moreover, the place is open until midnight every day.
4. Cathays Darkroom
If you’re looking for a funky, artsy place to have a drink, then head to Cathays Darkroom. This bar has been around since the 1980s and has since become a landmark in the city. The Cathays Darkroom is a popular place among the students of Cardiff University, which is nearby. If you’re visiting from another country and are a student, you can show the staff your ID and get a discount! The Cathays Darkroom is also a great place to go for an intimate date. The dim lights, live music, and interesting artwork on the walls make this a memorable place to explore or bond with someone special.
5. Enigma Bar
If you’re looking for a bar with a bit of mystery, then head to Enigma Bar. This place is known for its eccentric decor and is a great place to go for a quirky night out. Here, you will find a selection of drinks, including Whisky and cocktails. The bartenders are also known for their quirky and funny attitude, making the place even more enjoyable. Enigma Bar is usually packed with people on weekends, so you may need to wait outside for a while. The place has a number of tables, but they get filled quickly. If you are lucky enough to get a table, though, you can enjoy the quirky vibes of this place while sipping on your drink.
6. Hidden Edinburgh
Hidden Edinburgh is a great place to go if you’re looking to explore the lesser-known places of the city. This place is located within the walls of Edinburgh and is definitely a place you cannot miss out on. Hidden Edinburgh is located within Edinburgh Castle’s barracks. Here, you can explore the old prison cells and dungeons while learning about the history of Scotland. Hidden Edinburgh also hosts various events and exhibitions. Apart from all this, Hidden Edinburgh has one of the best views of Edinburgh Castle and the old town.
7. Haunters Edinburgh Ghost Tours
If you love visiting haunted places and if you’re a fan of scary stories, then you must visit Haunters Edinburgh Ghost Tours. Here, you will be guided through Edinburgh’s darkest corners and spookiest nooks. The tour starts in the Grassmarket, where you will be taken through the city’s grim past. You will also visit the site of an old plague pit and learn about the city’s connection with Mary, Queen of Scots. Once the tour ends, you will be taken to a local pub, where you can enjoy a pint or two while discussing the tour with your fellow travelers.
8. Hero’s Welcome Pub
If you want to go back in time and relive the days of yore, then head to Hero’s Welcome Pub. This place is a great place to spend an evening with family and friends. Here, you will find a selection of drinks and food items that make the place feel like a traditional Scottish pub. You can also enjoy a game of pool or a game of darts. The place is spacious and has ample seating, making it a great place for families with children to have a fun night out.
9. Hendersons Edinburgh Pub Crawl
The last stop on our list of the top 10 bars in Edinburgh is the Hendersons Edinburgh Pub Crawl. This place is the perfect place to go with your friends if you are looking to explore the city in a unique way. The Hendersons Edinburgh Pub Crawl is a guided tour that takes you through some of the best bars in Edinburgh. You will be accompanied by a tour guide who will help you get to know the city better. Hendersons Edinburgh Pub Crawl is a great way to meet new people and have an amazing time exploring this beautiful city.
10. The Hawley
And finally, we come to the last bar on our list: The Hawley. This place is popular among locals and tourists alike and is a great place to go for a relaxed evening. The Hawley is located at the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town and boasts about being one of the oldest pubs in the city. The pub is famous for its tasty food and drinks and is often visited by families and tourists alike. Moreover, Hawley is open every day of the year, making it a great place to go any day of the week. The best part about visiting any of these bars is that you can go alone or with a group of friends. This way, you get to explore Edinburgh in the best way possible. So, the next time you are in Edinburgh, don’t forget to pay these places a visit! You will surely not regret it.
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