Why Edinburgh Pubs Are the Ultimate Beer-Drinker’s Playground

Edinburgh is like a pub crawl in a history book. You turn a corner, and suddenly you’re in a 600-year-old building with a bar, a ghost, and a pint of something that tastes like it was brewed by a wizard. Sure, the Royal Mile has the castles and the street performers, but the real magic happens in the pubs. This guide isn’t just about where to drink—it’s about where to drink *right*. Let’s get this started.

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society: For When You’re Feeling Fancy (or Pretentious)

If you’ve ever wondered, “What if James Bond opened a bar in the 1700s?” you’ve found your spot. The Scotch Malt Whisky Society is a members-only club that doubles as a pub, and yes, the whisky here is so good it should be illegal. But let’s be real: the real draw is the vibe. It’s like walking into a library where the books are all about how to drink responsibly.

Pro Tip: Don’t ask for a “standard” drink here. The menu is a dictionary of whisky terms. Go with the “Cask Strength” if you want to feel like you’re surviving a Scottish winter.

The Spaniards: A Pub So Old, It’s Practically a Historical Attraction

Located on the Royal Mile, The Spaniards is one of Edinburgh’s oldest pubs and a place where time seems to pause. The building dates back to the 16th century, and the décor is so authentically “old” that you half-expect a bard to come out and sing a ballad about your hangover tomorrow.

• Signature Drink: The “Spaniard’s Special” is a dark ale that tastes like it’s been aged in a cave that’s seen better days.
• Ghost Story: They say the ghost of a 16th-century Spanish nobleman haunts the bar. If you’re lucky, you’ll see it. If not, just blame the alcohol.
• Why Go? You’re not just drinking beer—you’re sipping history. Plus, the live music on weekends is free, loud, and the kind of thing that makes you question your life choices.

The Sheep Heid Inn: The Pub That Invented Edinburgh’s Beer Scene

Need a pub with a story? The Sheep Heid Inn is it. This is where Edinburgh’s beer culture began, and it’s still a locals’ spot. The walls are covered in memorabilia, and the barman knows your name (or at least pretends to).

Must-Try: The “Sheep’s Wool” is a pale ale that’s so smooth, it feels like it’s apologizing for being a beer.

Link to: Make Your Own Beer – After a few pints, you might feel inspired to craft your own brew. (Spoiler: The results will be less impressive.)

The Famous Grouse: When You Want to Pretend You’re a Millionaire

If you’ve ever watched a spy movie and thought, “I wish I had a bar like that,” The Famous Grouse is your answer. It’s a whisky bar with a speakeasy vibe, complete with velvet booths and a menu that makes you question your budget.

• Whisky Tasting: They offer whisky flights, which are just a fancy way of saying “multiple shots you’ll regret by midnight.”
• Link to: Custom Beer – After your tasting, you’ll want to replicate the experience at home. (Spoiler: You won’t.)
• Why Go? The ambiance is so posh, you’ll forget you’re in Scotland. The only downside? You’ll start referring to everything as “the whisky experience” for days.

The Real Deal: Hidden Gems You Probably Won’t Miss

Edinburgh has more pubs than a city needs, and some are just there to remind you that not everything is perfect. Here are a few that are worth a visit if you’re feeling adventurous:

• The Tolbooth – A pub with a history of political intrigue. Fun fact: It was once a prison. Now it’s a place to drink and pretend you’re not sober.
• The Gladstone’s Land – This place is so old, the stairs creak like they’re judging your life choices. The beer is good, but the real star is the 17th-century building.
• The Cowane’s Hospital – A pub with a view of the castle. The beer is decent, but the real draw is the fact that it’s in a building that was once a hospital.

How to Avoid the Tourist Trap (and Still Have Fun)

Edinburgh’s pubs are great, but not all are created equal. Here’s how to avoid the places that charge $20 for a beer and call it “craft”:

1. Look for locals. If the pub is full of people who look like they’ve been here for years, you’re in a winner.
2. Avoid anything with a “Welcome to Edinburgh!” sign. That’s a trap. The good pubs don’t need to shout about it.
3. Check the menu. If the beer is from a company you’ve never heard of and the prices make you question your life, it’s probably a tourist trap.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the best beer to try in Edinburgh?

It depends on your mood. If you’re feeling fancy, go for a whisky at The Famous Grouse. If you’re just here for the vibes, The Sheep Heid Inn’s “Sheep’s Wool” is a solid choice.

Are there any pubs with live music?

Absolutely. The Spaniards has live music on weekends, and The Scotch Malt Whisky Society sometimes hosts jazz nights. Just don’t expect to hear anything newer than the 1980s.

How much does a pint cost in Edinburgh?

On average, a pint costs between £4 and £7. If it’s more than that, you’re either at a posh spot or getting ripped off.

Can I bring my dog to an Edinburgh pub?

Most pubs are dog-friendly, but it depends on the establishment. The Sheep Heid Inn is a safe bet—they’ve got a “best in show” winner of a barman who’ll feed your pup.

Final Cheers: Edinburgh Pubs Are the Best, and You’re Going to Love Them

Edinburgh’s pub scene is like a love letter to history, beer, and the occasional ghost. Whether you’re sipping whisky at The Famous Grouse or pretending you’re in a spy movie at The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, there’s a pub for every mood.

And hey, if you’re feeling inspired after your pint, Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer has all the tips you need to start your own pub empire. (Spoiler: It won’t include the ghosts. You’ll have to fake those.)

Call to Action: Ready to Raise a Pint?

Don’t just read about these pubs—get out there and drink. Edinburgh is waiting with open arms, cold beer, and a side of history. And if you ever want to sell your own beer online, Dropt.beer is the place to do it. Cheers!

Contact us if you want more pub recommendations, or if you’re just really into beer. We do not judge.