Scotland’s capital has no shortage of places where you can wet your whistle, but as with many other areas of life, the city centre has seen major changes over the past few years – and not all of them for the better.
Much has been written about the death of the traditional boozer, and in the city centre pubs have to compete with a wide array of wine and cocktail bars, specialist gin and rum outlets and craft beer bars.
And that’s not to mention the number of ‘proper’ boozers which have been converted into gastropubs.
All is not lost, though, as there’s still some places where you can enjoy a good pint of lager and a packet of crisps – perhaps with a football match on the telly or a game of pool or darts.
And that’s not to mention the number of ‘proper’ boozers which have been converted into gastropubs.
5. Bow Bar
Where: 80 West Bow, Edinburgh, EH1 2HH. Nestled on the winding slope of Victoria Street is the delightful Bow Bar, a favourite haunt of locals and any tourists lucky enough to stumble upon it. There’s good reason why this place is so popular: clued-up staff, a friendly atmosphere, an almost unrivalled choice of ales, and a gantry that boasts more than 250 malts. Photo: Third Party
Where: 8 Leven Street, Edinburgh, EH3 9LG. Little changed since its opening in 1839, Bennets has a wonderful atmosphere bolstered by theatre fans, thespians, tourists and students looking for better value beer than a £9 schooner. Photo: Third Party
Where: 25 Forrest Road, Edinburgh, EH1 2QH. Long one of the best folk music venues in Edinburgh, small and cosy pub Sandy Bell’s is about as traditional as it gets. Photo: Third Party
Where: 1-3 Angle Park Terrace, Edinburgh, EH11 2JX. Initially named the Gravediggers Arms due to its location between two graveyards, this Dalry public house has a genuine old school feel, with an authentic decor and a welcoming atmosphere. If you’re looking for an Edinburgh institution steeped in history, then look no further. Photo: Third Party
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