The 12 best bars in Edinburgh for every type of night out
Nothing beats wrapping up a busy week with a night out with friends. After all the hard work and adulting, it’s only fair to treat yourself and find that sweet spot of work-life balance. A fun night out? Totally essential.
If you’re stuck trying to figure out where to go, don’t stress. We’ve done the hard part and rounded up the best bars in Edinburgh, where you and your crew are bound to have an amazing time.
So, what are you waiting for? Go on, live a little—you’ve earned it!
1. The Devil’s Advocate
Media credits: thedaoldtown
Address: 9 Advocate’s Cl
Contact details: +44 131 225 4465
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 12 PM – 12 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 12 PM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 12 AM
Price: $$
The Devil’s Advocate is set in an old Victorian pump house, which gives it a lot of character. It’s tucked just off the busy Royal Mile, making it a hidden gem for both locals and visitors.
Inside, the vibe is industrial. It sports exposed brick, wooden floors, and high ceilings that highlight the building’s history. There’s even a mezzanine dining area and comfy banquettes, perfect for a cosy meal.
The bar has over 300 whiskies, so whisky fans will be in heaven. The decor mixes modern touches with the building’s original features, giving the place a warm and inviting feel.
While whisky takes centre stage, there’s also a great cocktail menu and a solid range of beers.
Pro tip:
If you’re bringing your dog, stick to the bar area or terrace. Pets are not allowed in the restaurant section.
2. BrewDog DogHouse Edinburgh Bar & Terrace
Media credits: brewdogdoghouseedin
Address: 5 New St
Contact details: +44 131 290 2300
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 7 AM – 12 AM
Price: $$
BrewDog DogHouse Edinburgh Bar & Terrace is a cool spot right in the heart of Edinburgh, just a short walk from the Royal Mile. It’s not your usual hangout—it’s a craft beer bar that’s also a dog-friendly hotel.
The place is housed in a repurposed Victorian school building, giving it a unique vibe. There’s always something happening here, with live music and brewery events going on regularly.
There are 30 taps with everything from IPAs to stouts and lagers. Plus, there’s a good selection of cocktails and wines if you’re after something else.
The food menu is solid too, with everything from burgers and Korean BBQ wings to salads and brunch options. And if you’re into wings, don’t miss Wings Wednesdays with all-you-can-eat chicken or vegan wings.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the rooftop terrace—it’s the perfect spot to relax with a drink, cosy up by the fire pit, and take in the stunning city views from the comfy loungers and communal tables.
3. Boom Battle Bar – Edinburgh
Media credits: boombattlebar
Address: Units 3 & 4, Omni Centre
Contact details: +44 131 332 1212
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 12 PM – 11 PM
- Friday: 12 PM – 12 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 11 PM
Price: $$
Boom Battle Bar in the OMNi Centre is a lively spot for hangouts and celebrations. With fun activities, DJs on weekends, and themed brunches like the “Big BOOM Brunch,” it’s perfect for a night out with friends.
You can try axe throwing, crazier golf, or shuffleboard for more fun. There are also AR darts if you want something different from the classic game.
If you’re in the mood for something easy-going, beer pong and prosecco pong are perfect for a laid-back time.
The food and drink menu has something for everyone. They have street food options like BBQ, chicken wings, and hot dogs. The bar serves a variety of draught beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks to keep everyone refreshed.
Pro tip:
You can book online for groups of up to 12, but for larger groups, it’s best to contact the venue directly. If you’re walking in, be aware that tables are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
4. The Alchemist – George Street
Media credits: thealchemistuk
Address: 51 George St
Contact details: +44 131 376 4376
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 12 PM – 12 AM
- Thursday to Friday: 12 PM – 1 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 12 AM
Price: $$
The Alchemist on George Street is a cool spot that mixes creative cocktails with a fun dining experience. It’s located in a lively area with lots of Victorian architecture, making it a great place for both locals and visitors.
The inside is decked out in classy black and gold, giving it a fancy vibe. With room for up to 220 people, it’s perfect for everything from a casual meal to larger gatherings.
On weekends, it turns up the energy with table service starting at 9 PM and resident DJs spinning house music.
When it comes to drinks, The Alchemist really knows its stuff. The bartenders use molecular mixology to create cool cocktails, like the Pop Notch—cherry gin served with a fog bubble that pops to release its aroma.
Pro tip:
The Alchemist doesn’t have step-free access, so wheelchair users may need assistance to enter.
5. The Cocktail Geeks
Media credits: thecocktailgeeks
Address: Arch 14, 27 E Market St
Contact details: +44 131 557 1224
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 3 PM – 12 AM
- Friday: 3 PM – 1 AM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 12 AM
Price: $$
The Cocktail Geeks mixes great drinks with pop culture themes. Every few months, the bar switches up its theme to keep things fresh and exciting.
Recent themes have included Game of Thrones, The Witcher, and Alice in Wonderland. Cocktails have even been crafted to match each theme!
What makes this place stand out is the interactive element – sometimes, you’ll need to solve a riddle tied to the theme before getting your drink. The cocktails themselves are just as unique, like the “Blood of Old Valyria.”
As a privately owned spot, The Cocktail Geeks is all about supporting local businesses and creating a fun community for people who love pop culture and great cocktails. It’s wheelchair accessible and dog-friendly, so everyone can join in.
Pro tip:
The bar has a cosy vibe with just 15 seats, making it a popular spot. It’s a good idea to book ahead, especially on weekends or during themed events. This way, you’re guaranteed a spot to enjoy their creative cocktails and unique atmosphere.
6. The Voodoo Rooms
Media credits: thevoodoorooms
Address: 19a W Register St
Contact details: +44 131 556 7060
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 5 PM – 1 AM
- Friday: 3 PM – 1 AM
- Saturday: 1 PM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 3 PM – 1 AM
Price: $$
The Voodoo Rooms has been a go-to spot in Edinburgh’s nightlife scene since 2007. Housed in a gorgeous Georgian building, it’s got that perfect mix of history and charm.
The decor blends Victorian elegance and cabaret flair. There are five spacious rooms and three bars to explore. From the Main Bar and The Speakeasy to the French Quarter and The Ballroom, each space is ideal for both intimate gatherings and larger events.
The menu has something for everyone, including veggie, vegan, and gluten-free options. The bar steals the show with its impressive selection of rums and tequilas, not to mention the award-winning cocktails that are a favourite with both locals and visitors.
Pro tip:
Check out their schedule for comedy shows, live music, and cabaret acts. The Voodoo Rooms is a lively hotspot all week long and has snagged multiple awards for its stylish design and buzzing nightlife.
7. Heads & Tales Gin Bar
Media credits: headsandtalesbar
Address: 1a Rutland St
Contact details: +44 131 656 2811
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 5 AM – 12 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 5 AM – 3 AM
- Sunday: 5 AM – 12 AM
- Monday: Closed
Price: $$
Heads & Tales Gin Bar has a stylish underground spot with timber ceilings, comfy armchairs, and two gin stills. They’re part of the Edinburgh Gin Distillery, so you can even watch the gin-making magic happen while enjoying your drink.
The cocktail menu is always changing, with fresh, seasonal ingredients that keep things interesting. If you’re feeling peckish, they’ve got light bites and sharing plates featuring local flavours like charcuterie boards and other tasty treats that pair perfectly with your drink.
It’s the kind of place where you can have a chilled, classy night out. Plus, it’s dog-friendly and has Wi-Fi!
Pro tip:
Try the ‘Gin-It-Yourself’ (G-I-Y) menu for a personalised twist on your cocktail. You get to pick everything—from the gin and mixers to the flavours, garnishes, and even the glassware. It’s a fun and creative way to craft a drink that’s uniquely yours!
8. Bramble
Media credits: bramble_bar
Address: 16A Queen St
Contact details: +44 131 226 6343
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 4 PM – 1 AM
Price: $$
Bramble is tucked beneath a dry cleaner’s shop with only a small brass plaque to guide you. The atmosphere is warm and moody. It has dim lighting, chilled jazz, and soulful tunes that set the perfect tone for a relaxed night.
They’ve got the classics down, but it’s their unique twists that stand out. Their signature drink, the Bramble, is a must-try. It’s a smooth and refreshing gin cocktail that puts the bar on the map.
If you’re feeling adventurous, check out “The Saint” or the “Grand Central.”
Weekends are extra fun here, with DJs bringing a lively energy to the already buzzing bar. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to keep coming back to.
Pro tip:
Chat with the bartenders! They’re incredibly talented and love crafting custom cocktails tailored to your taste.
9. Panda & Sons
Address: 79 Queen St
Contact details: +44 131 220 0443
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday: 4 PM – 1 AM
- Saturday: 2 PM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 3 PM – 1 AM
- Monday: Closed
Price: $$
Panda & Sons has become a favourite among locals and visitors alike since its opening in 2013. From the outside, it looks like a vintage barbershop which adds a sense of mystery. Step inside, and you’re transported to a cosy, Prohibition-era-style with charming vintage decor.
The cocktail menu here is next-level, blending classic and modern techniques with a dash of creativity. Their “Transcend” menu takes things up a notch with innovative methods like freezing and sous-vide for unique flavour combinations.
While the bar welcomes a mix of guests, they keep the vibe laid-back by avoiding large party bookings like stag or hen groups. Payments are a breeze with credit card and mobile options, and there’s paid street parking nearby if you’re driving.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking for something different, try The Fennel Countdown. It’s a refreshing mix with a hint of fennel that takes cocktails to the next level.
10. Hoot The Redeemer
Media credits: hoottheredeemer
Address: 7 Hanover St
Contact details: +44 131 220 0310
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday: 4 PM – 1 AM
- Saturday to Sunday: 3 PM – 1 AM
- Monday: Closed
Price: $$
Hoot The Redeemer is a cocktail bar like no other, with a fun, vintage New Orleans carnival vibe. From the moment you walk through its quirky “Hoot”-branded door, you’re greeted by neon lights, retro decor, and a whimsical atmosphere.
Inside, the place is full of fun touches. It has a fortune teller machine, an adult slushie station, and even a claw machine where you can choose drink flavours.
One of its highlights is the tarot-themed cocktail menu, which makes picking your drink feel like part of the adventure. They’ve got alcoholic slushies, making it clear this place is all about blending creativity with a good time.
Pro tip:
Make sure to try the adult slushies and ice cream from the Señor Scoop machine—both are fan favourites and must-tries!
11. The Banshee Labyrinth
Media credits: banshee_labyrinth
Address: 29-35 Niddry St
Contact details: +44 131 558 8209
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 7 PM – 3 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 5 PM – 3 AM
- Sunday: 7 PM – 3 AM
Price: $$
The Banshee Labyrinth is a place where history, entertainment, and a touch of the supernatural come together. Known as one of Scotland’s most haunted pubs, it stays open until 3 AM every day and offers an unforgettable experience for locals and visitors alike.
Built into the South Bridge Vaults, its setting alone is enough to give you chills. These vaults were once infamous for crime and poverty, and the eerie vibe hasn’t left. Many people have reported strange happenings, from objects moving on their own to ghostly figures appearing.
There’s a lot to enjoy inside. You’ll find a cosy little cinema that seats about 35 people, a flexible room for live shows, and the historic Vault that fits around 40 guests. Plus, there are three bars serving all kinds of drinks, including over 60 different types of rum!
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the events at The Banshee Labyrinth! From open mic nights and live music showcasing local talent to the delightfully spooky “Dr Bonk’s Macarbaret” (a mix of comedy and burlesque), something unforgettable always happens.
12. The Raging Bull
Media credits: theragingbulledinburgh
Address: 161 Lothian Rd
Contact details: +44 131 228 5558
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 4 PM – 1 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 1 PM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 4 PM – 1 AM
Price: $$
The Raging Bull is a cocktail lover’s dream. Known for its exceptional espresso martinis and creative coffee cocktails, it’s a go-to spot for fun nights out or marking special occasions.
The bar’s quirky design and chic atmosphere set the tone for a memorable experience.
The menu is brimming with signature cocktails like “Mexican Winter” and “Spicy Peach & Passion Margarita. Each cocktail offers a unique twist that keeps patrons coming back for more.
The bar also boasts a private event space that can host up to 45 guests. It’s complete with its own bar and customisable options for music and catering. It’s perfect for birthday parties, corporate events, or cocktail receptions where you want a touch of personalisation.
Pro tip:
For those looking to up their cocktail game, The Raging Bull hosts mixology classes led by award-winning bartenders. These hands-on sessions are a great way to learn, celebrate, or simply enjoy some creative fun with friends.