These old watering holes have fascinating histories, 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 know about them, such as how they got their names.

5. The Livingston Inn
While the name itself is no big mystery, it has a fascinating history. Dating back to 1760, The Livingston Inn stands in its own grounds and is set within the Scottish conservation village of Livingston Village. It is steeped in history and indeed one famous resident was the world famous Scottish poet Robert Burns who stayed here and penned the song “The Bonnie Lass of Livingston“ during his stay in the Inn. Photo: Third Party

6. The Diggers
Originally named the Athletic Arms when it opened in 1897, this Victorian pub is now The Diggers thanks to its close proximity to two graveyards. Photo: TSPL

7. The King’s Wark
While the building that houses the Leith Shore pub dates back to the 1700s, it actually sits on foundations which are significantly older. The King’s Wark was the name and site of a late medieval royal complex built by King James I around 1434. Photo: Third Party

8. The World's End
Probably one of the most famous pubs in Edinburgh can be found on High Street, which despite its central location was once on the very edge of the city boundaries – hence the name ‘World’s End’. Photo: TSPL