These pubs have fascinating back stories, particularly when it comes to how they got their names.
Here we take a look at 12 of the oldest pubs in Edinburgh and the Lothians, and discover one or two things you might not have known.
5. The Black Bitch
As reported in the Evening News, controversial plans to rename the historic West Lothian pub are set to go ahead – despite months of pressure from angry locals. Following a public consultation, owners Greene King were given the green light to rebrand Linlithgow boozer The Black Bitch as The Willow Tree. The pub’s original name derives from a local legend of a faithful black greyhound that swam across Linlithgow Loch to take food to her incarcerated owner – the canine’s efforts led to her being incorporated in the town’s coat of arms in 1673 and immortalised in the High Street sculpture, The Black Bitch of Linlithgow. Photo: other
6. The White Hart Inn
Parts of the White Hart are said to date back to 1516 and its name goes even further back to an incident in 1128 when King David I is said to have encountered a white stag while hunting in what is now Holyrood Park. Photo: TSPL
7. The Banshee Labyrinth
This popular bar is thought to be haunted by a screaming woman - the banshee. The pub has a maze of rooms that extend off the main bar – hence the second part of the name. Photo: Facebook
8. Sheep Heid Inn
One story behind this pub's name suggests it derives from an ornate ram’s head snuff box, donated to the landlord of the pub in 1580 by King James VI – who is said to have been a regular customer. Photo: TSPL