Historic pub on Edinburgh's Rose Street reopens after six-figure makeover

The century-old pub has a new look both inside and out

A historic Edinburgh pub has reopened to the public following a month-long, six-figure refurbishment.

Milnes Bar, on Rose Street, closed at the end of September for an extensive interior and exterior revamp.

Owners Belhaven said the upgrades to the watering hole, which has served as a literary haunt for poets and students since opening in 1910, retain its traditional Scottish style. Its famed Lonely Poet’s Chair keeps pride of place in the newly overhauled bar.

The pub looks different both inside and out after the six-figure upgradesplaceholder image
The pub looks different both inside and out after the six-figure upgrades | Belhaven

Inside, the venue has new flooring, booth seating and furnishings, lighting, décor and curated artwork while outside benefits from new signage, lighting and outdoor furniture.

The pub’s ornate gold and green decals have been replaced with a sleek black and gold look which Belhaven describe as boosting its “kerbside appeal”.

The downstairs bar.placeholder image
The downstairs bar. | Supplied

Susan Power, general manager of the Milnes Bar said: “This bar is a real gem in the city centre and it’s great to be open again for everyone to enjoy our new, enhanced look and feel. It’s still full of the all the history and character but with those extra special features to really add to the Milnes Bar style and experience.

The interior of the revamped pub.placeholder image
The interior of the revamped pub. | Supplied

“It’s lighter and brighter with a new layout for customers to relax and enjoy their drinks and dining. We are here for all occasions, whether you want a leisurely lunch, an afterwork drink with colleagues or to rest weary legs after a day visiting the city’s sights.”

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