Why You Should Trust Me
Look, I’m not some bro with a clipboard who’s never had a pint in his life. I’ve gotten lost in Edinburgh’s cobblestone maze more times than I care to admit, and I’ve survived. These pubs? They’re not for tourists who want to pose for photos with the castle in the background. They’re for people who want to sip good beer, avoid the tourist trap traps, and maybe stumble home with a story (or three).
Where to Start Your Pub Crawl
Edinburgh’s Old Town is basically a medieval maze with a side of history. But here’s the secret: the best pubs aren’t in the guidebooks. They’re the ones where the locals are too drunk to notice you, and the barman doesn’t flinch when you ask for a “wee dram” at 10 PM. Let’s break down the winners.
The Cock and Bulls: Where the Beer Flows Like Water
Address: 2 South Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1LJ
- Must-Try: The “Cock & Bulls Ale” – it’s like a liquid punchline that hits just right.
- Why Go: This place is older than your Instagram filter and has the same charm. The bar is tiny, the chairs are creaky, and the barman knows your name before you’ve ordered your first pint.
Want to make your own beer? Start here, then hit a pub with your custom brew.
The Sheep Heid: The OG Pub of Edinburgh
Address: 3 Cowgate, Edinburgh EH1 1JD
- Must-Try: The “Sheep Heid Porter” – dark, bold, and perfect for pretending you’re a Victorian philosopher.
- Why Go: Established in 1505, this pub predates the invention of the internet. The walls are lined with history, and the beer is strong enough to survive a time machine.
Running a pub? Check out how to grow your business like The Sheep Heid.
The Gladstone: Where the Beer’s Better Than Your Explanations
Address: 116 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1SR
- Must-Try: The “Gladstone Lager” – crisp, cold, and the perfect way to drown your sorrows (or your hangover).
- Why Go: This place is a throwback to when pubs were just places to sit, stare at the wall, and pretend you were deep in thought. The jukebox plays classic rock at a volume that makes you feel nostalgic for a life you never had.
Want a beer that’s uniquely you? Craft your masterpiece and serve it with a side of confidence.
The Jolly Judge: For When You’re Feeling Judgmental
Address: 9–11 Queen Street, Edinburgh EH2 4NU
- Must-Try: The “Jolly Judge IPA” – bitter enough to make your ex cringe.
- Why Go: This pub is a masterclass in “How to Ignore the Tourists.” The staff will glare at you like you’re a suspect in a crime, and the beer is so good it’ll make you question your life choices.
Need more pub recommendations? We’ve got you covered.
The King’s Arms: Where the Beer’s Royal and the Pints Are Too
Address: 16–18 Queen Street, Edinburgh EH2 4NU
- Must-Try: The “King’s Arms Ale” – smooth, regal, and slightly more expensive than your dignity.
- Why Go: This pub is like a monarchy for beer lovers. The decor is ornate, the staff wears the kind of apron that screams “I’m not paying you enough,” and the beer list is longer than your Netflix queue.
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Liquid Gold for the Soul
Let’s be real: Edinburgh’s Old Town pubs are the only reason we don’t all just live in our parents’ basements. They’re where history, beer, and chaos collide. Whether you’re there for the beer, the stories, or just to avoid the tourist hordes, these pubs are the real MVPs.
Pubs That Time Forgot (But You Won’t)
Edinburgh’s pubs are like a bad breakup – they’ll hurt you, but you’ll keep coming back. The key is to embrace the chaos, sip slowly, and never, ever trust a barman who says “one for the road.” You’ll regret it. (But maybe that’s the point.)
FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
1. What’s the best time to visit these pubs?
Early evening. That’s when the locals are still sober enough to remember their names, and the tourists haven’t yet turned into a drunken choir of “Auld Lang Syne.”
2. Should I book a table?
Only if you’re planning to order a cheeseburger. The real magic happens when you stand at the bar, elbow-to-elbow with strangers, and pretend you’re part of the decor.
3. Are these pubs family-friendly?
If your family includes a 300-year-old ghost who’s there to judge your life choices, absolutely. Otherwise, maybe bring a sweater. These places are cold enough to put a chill on your ex’s Instagram.
Final Cheers to Edinburgh’s Pub Scene
So, go forth. Order a pint, listen to the stories of the barman (he’s probably making them up), and lose yourself in the magic of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Just don’t forget to tip – even if the barman looks like he’s been paid in beer tokens since 1750.
Need more pub recommendations or want to custom-order a beer? Slide into our DMs – or at least our contact form.
