12 of the best barber shops in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city with an abundance of barber shops that go above and beyond - and some that keep it old-fashioned. You won't go wrong at any of these establishments.

The Player's Lounge

The "eco salon" uses reclaimed church pews and upcycled railway sleepers for decoration. There's low-energy lighting, eco hairdryers and they are committed to fundraising for WaterAid. Even the products they use are all sulphate, paraben and cruelty free, so it's the perfect place to visit if you want to help the environment at the same time as getting a great new haircut.

Visit: 161a Rose Street, EH2 4LS

Ruffians is a popular high-end barber in the city's West End (Ruffians)

Statement

All the trimmings of a high-end barbers without the price tag or the stuffy atmosphere. Statement in Tollcross is a friendly little spot, and if you've sat down in the chair once, you're treated like a regular. Friendly vibes are accompanied by good service, and the relaxed environment means you feel comfortable enough to ask for exactly what you want, instead of the usual awkward mumbling.

Visit: 36 Home Street, EH3 9LZ

In terms of atmosphere Mackintosh's is a cut above many of its city rivals - which perhaps explains the loyalty of their Marchmont customers. But let's get things straight: the team at Mackintosh's aren't just renowned for their conversation - anyone in the city's Marchmont, Bruntsfield or Morningside areas looking for a neat, contemporary cut can be assured of one at this Roseneath Street barbers.

Visit: 10 Roseneath Street, EH9 1JH

Ruffians

Ruffians' rise to the top of Edinburgh's high-end barbers was meteoric - within six months of setting up shop on Queensferry Street, they had bagged the Best Independent Newcomer at the British Hairdressing Awards, and the gongs have rolled in since then. If you're looking for a quick snip in a hurry, then choose elsewhere. But if you've an hour of your time to give after pay day and you're looking for the 'full works' then Ruffians is hard to top. The hot shaves and head massages are a bonus, but the main attraction is the fact that you'll walk away with a damn fine haircut.

Visit: 23 Queensferry Street, EH2 4QS​

Fine Fellas

Offering haircuts, beard trims and hot shaves, Fine Fellas provide a relaxed, old-school service at great prices. They're even dog friendly - what could be better than relaxing in the barber's chair accompanied by man's best friend? The team have also created their own range of Fine Fellas products so you can take away your own tin of pomade to style your hair at home.

Visit: 85 Haymarket Terrace, EH12 5HD

Vagabond

Owner Paul Stewart has honed his skills over 20 years in the industry and, after working for top names like Cheynes and Boombarbers, decided to set up Vagabond to provide relaxed, professional and unpretentious hairdressing for the men of Edinburgh. Full of leather chairs and rich mahogany furniture, Vagabond is the sort of place you can go to chill out for an hour or so as you treat yourself to a new 'do.

Visit: 35 St Stephen Street, EH3 5AH​

Benjamin's Barber Shop

Benjamin's is a true believer in the philosophy that there's no school quite like the old school. Their shop on Henderson Row has been doing things the old-fashioned way since 2013 and they've fast built a reputation for their traditional cuts. No fancy options here - they specialise in the short back and sides with a well-groomed top.

Visit: 68 Henderson Row, EH3 5BJ​

Duke's Barbers

If you're looking for quality traditional men's hairdressing, head to Duke's. Their original shop in Marchmont, which has been a favourite of locals since 2008, proved so popular that Duke's opened a second barbershop in Tollcross. It's a good option if you've decided to get a haircut at the last minute, because they offer a walk-in service only.

Visit: 123 Marchmont Road EH9 1HA

Stag Barber Co.

A modern barber with an old twist, Stag Barber Co. is tucked away off the Grassmarket, but the beautiful branding and decor should be enough to grab your attention. Founded just under a year ago, their attention to detail is second to none, and their range of Murdock London products come from one of the finest grooming ranges in the UK.

Visit: 22 Lady Lawson Street, EH3 9DS

Boombarbers

One of the first barber shops in Edinburgh to take men's hair out of the Dark Ages, Boombarbers has now expanded to six spots across the city and beyond. Their original site in West End is still a good choice if you live or work in the area, with friendly service and the all the treatments you would expect from a top end haircut, including hair washes and hot towel shaves.

Visit: 13 Melville Place, EH3 7PR

Sink and Anchor

The nautically themed Sink and Anchor have already won over a loyal customer base. As well as reliable haircuts and beard trims from experienced staff, they offer a relaxed experience, complete with optional PS4 games and your choice of hot drinks, soft drinks and craft beer.

Visit: 13 West Port, EH1 2JA

Rag & Bone Barbershop

A trendy mix of vintage and industrial, there are plenty of quirky touches in the barbershop, like vintage cast iron cinema seats and an antique telephone. The Rag & Bone guys pride themselves on providing the highest quality haircuts and exceptional customer service. At the weekends, the friendly chaps will even provide you with a nice cold bottle of local beer to enjoy whilst you get your hair cut.

Visit: 103 Dundas Street, EH3 6SD