The Top 7 Pubs Near Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile
August 12, 2019 2:02pm
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Not only is Edinburgh Castle the most popular tourist attraction in Scotland, it’s also one of the most iconic landmarks in the UK overall. Dating back centuries and built into a dormant volcanic cliff face, it’s a stunning monument to behold, and a fascinating one to visit, with features such as the Stone of Destiny proving especially compelling.
A day spent exploring it should top your agenda if you’re visiting this beautiful city. And doing so will see you develop quite the thirst. Thankfully the Royal Mile, a delightful cobbled stretch running from the castle through the heart of the city, has no shortage of top-notch pubs within which to wet your whistle. Here, in no particular order, are our top seven.
1) Royal Mile Tavern
It doesn’t get any more traditional than this joint. They have a massive selection of draught and bottled beers, ales and whiskies, which wash the tasty pub grub down perfectly. And on the pub grub, you’ve got to try their Haggis Bonbons!
2) Deacon Brodie’s Tavern
True story: Deacon Brodie was the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s Jekyll and Hyde. By day, Brodie was a pillar of the community, by night he drank and gambled, using burglary to pay off debts, before being hung for his crimes in 1788. This is a popular spot and you may have to wait for a table. But it’s worth it.
3) The Devil’s Advocate
This pub is in an historic Victorian pump house, but has a truly modern twist, serving inventive cocktails and innovative food in a stylish environment. Their whiskey-based cocktails are nectar of the gods, with the rich and creamy ‘Nae Bother Atholl’ our go-to cocktail there every time.
4) The Bow Bar
There’s lots to love about this little gem, which is particularly well known for its knowledgeable staff — these guys really know their whiskey. But for us, The Bow Bar is all about the delicious pies, which are handmade by the Jarvis Pickle Kitchen. The Pork & Blue Cheese is our favourite. Followed closely by the Pheasant & Pancetta. Drool.
5) The Beehive Inn
The Beehive Inn is steeped in history. Its license is believed to have existed since its first incarnation as a coaching inn in the 15th century; it was frequented by the famous poet Robert Burns during his time in Edinburgh; and the site of the old gallows is just a few steps away. The jewel in the crown of this lively spot is its garden terrace, which spans three levels and accommodates over 200 people.
6) Holyrood 9A
If its beer and burgers you’re after, then this is the place. Indeed, both are so good, that Holyrood 9A has developed a bit of a cult following and is favoured by locals too. The selection of beer rotates regularly, so there’s always something new and interesting to try, and the gourmet burgers are notoriously large and tasty.
7) The World’s End
Back in the 16th century, when Edinburgh was enclosed by a wall, the gates to the city were located outside this pub. Residents of the city considered anything beyond these gates as not of their world, hence the rather dramatic name. Weekend nights are especially lively in here, when The World’s End plays host to live traditional Scottish music that attracts locals and tourists alike.
Planning a trip to Edinburgh in an unbeatable location close to all the above?
Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile are just a 10-minute stroll along the Lochrin Basin from our Staycity Aparthotel in Edinburgh’s West End. Check out what else is close by in this nifty little video we made.
Stay with us at Staycity Aparthotels, Edinburgh, West End. Book your apartment here.