Every March 17, millions of people across the world raise a glass to Ireland’s patron saint – and the Capital isn’t short of Irish pubs where you can order a pint of the black stuff in traditional surroundings. If you’re in Edinburgh or visiting, take a look through our photo gallery to discover seven pubs where you can enjoy a perfect pint of Guinness on St Patrick’s Day this Friday.
. The Three Sisters
Where: 139 Cowgate, Edinburgh EH1 1JS. Situated in the heart of Edinburgh's Cowgate, which was once known as “Little Ireland”, The Three Sisters has five levels of fun, along with a huge courtyard for sunny days. It's also the location of the Capital's largest St Patrick's Day festival, with live bands, drag queens and 'craic'aoke' and competitions. Photo: Third Party
. Biddy Mulligans
Where: 94-96 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2JR. Situated in the Grassmarket, this pub is always packed to the rafters any time you visit - never mind on St Patrick's Day! Boasting an impressive drinks list (including a huge selection of Irish whiskies) and a friendly atmosphere in great surroundings, it’s the perfect little bar to take in the celebrations. You can even enjoy drinks in ‘the Paddock’ – Biddy’s beer garden – a great place to sit and watch the world go by. Best of all the bar has a range of live music for this St Patrick's day. Photo: Daniel McAvoy Photo: Daniel McAvoy
5. Finnegan's Wake
Where: 9b Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2HE. Named after the James Joyce novel, Finnegan's Wake is famed for its live music and a "party atmosphere" is assured every night. For St Patrick's day, the pub will have live music all day and face painting, among other fun activities. It opens at 11am for those who like an early start. Photo: Third Party
6. Dropkick Murphys
Where: 7 Merchant St, Edinburgh EH1 2QD. Open until 3am every night, Dropkick Murphys is the place to go if you want to dance until the wee small hours. There's regular live music and it's also a great venue for watching sport on the big screens. Dropkicks are celebrating St Patrick's Day eve, on March 16, with live music from 9pm until 3am and a balloon drop at midnight. On St Patrick's Day itself, there will be free pizza from midday and more live music. Photo: Third Party
7. Kitty O'Shea's
Where: 43B Frederick St, Edinburgh EH2 1EP. This St Patrick's day there will be live music, face painting, Irish dancing and fresh pints of Guinness. And plenty of them. Photo: Third Party