The Best Pubs
in
Edinburgh

Tucked away in Leith, Teuchters Landing is a cracking spot where fantastic food and a stellar drinks lineup—think cask ales, malty whiskies, and spicy margs—meet a warm, dog-friendly welcome. Grab a seat in the fairy-lit outdoor area, even in winter with heaters and blankets, and dig into a bowl of Cullen skink or a hearty beef stew that’ll have you ordering seconds. Whether you’re here for a lively afternoon watching the rugby or a relaxed group catch-up, the service is fast and the vibe is pure local charm.

Step into The Bow Bar, a wonderfully old school pub where the sheer passion for whisky and beer is absolutely infectious. With a staggering selection of nearly 500 whiskies and a brilliantly varied tap list, the incredibly knowledgeable staff are always eager to guide you to your perfect dram or pint. This dog friendly, cozy spot is perfect for groups, offering a welcoming energy that makes every visit feel like a discovery.

Head straight to Teuchters for an absolutely brilliant pub experience where incredible food, a huge selection of malt whiskies and cask ales, and a lively sports watching scene come together perfectly. The cozy, welcoming space is ideal for groups, with a fantastic menu featuring dishes like perfectly cooked venison that will absolutely blow you away. With fair prices, a dog friendly policy, and a cracking lineup of beers, wines, and cocktails, this is the kind of place you’ll be raving about long after you leave.

Plunge into history at The World's End, a pub built right into the ancient Flodden Wall where locals once believed the world ended. The food is pure comfort, with incredible ale pie and triple-fried chips that will have you planning your return before you've finished dessert. It’s a dog-friendly spot perfect for groups, serving up a fantastic range of beers, wines, and cocktails alongside a book full of whiskies to explore. With its hearty cooking, welcoming spirit, and genuinely fascinating story, this is an absolute must for an authentic and memorable pub visit.

Make your way to The Piper's Rest, a true "hame fae hame" nestled in the heart of the Old Town where incredible Scottish food and nightly live music create an absolutely electric buzz. This is the perfect spot for groups, serving up everything from craft beers and cocktails to a phenomenal selection of whiskies and gins, all with a side of local ghost stories from the friendly team. Whether you're digging into a hearty steak pie or a bowl of Cullen skink, every dish is made with fresh, local produce that will have you planning your next visit before the last crumb is gone.

Step into a Victorian masterpiece where every glance upwards reveals an ornate ceiling and a mezzanine balcony that makes you feel like you’re drinking in a living museum. This stunning, dog friendly pub serves up a fantastic range of beers, wines, and cocktails, and its lively, welcoming vibe is perfect for gathering a group of friends. With a menu of wonderful food and a setting so gorgeous it steals the show, this is an absolute must for anyone who loves a truly beautiful pint.

Craving a proper taste of Scotland? The Tolbooth Tavern, a beloved local on the Royal Mile for over 200 years, delivers authentic Scottish hospitality with a fantastic menu of classics like haggis, neeps and tatties and a truly impressive whisky selection. It’s a brilliantly versatile spot, equally perfect for catching live music, cheering on the match with a pint, or settling in for a relaxed dinner with your dog by your side. With a cosy, characterful interior and a welcoming team that makes every guest feel like a regular, this award winning pub is an absolute must for a memorable meal and a great night out.

Hunt down this incredible Wetherspoon tucked inside a beautifully converted old cinema, where you can grab a cheap pint and affordable food across three sprawling floors. Make your way to the very top level for a fantastic view while enjoying a great range of beers, wines, and cocktails with your group. It’s a brilliantly unique spot that proves a classic pub experience can be both budget friendly and genuinely impressive.

Discover the iconic Cafe Royal, a stunning Victorian oyster bar and restaurant that’s an absolute gem for any group outing. Sip on expertly crafted cocktails, fine wines, or a perfectly poured beer while soaking in the breathtaking historic interiors and unique ambiance. The menu shines with fresh Scottish seafood and classic dishes, making it a brilliant choice for a lively meal with friends. This is a truly special spot that deserves a top spot on your list.

Pull up a stool at The Last Drop, a Grassmarket pub where the dark history of its location adds a gripping layer to every pint. This dog friendly spot serves up a cracking range of beers, wines, and cocktails, with live music and a welcoming buzz that’s perfect for groups. The food is superb and well priced, making it an absolute gem for a memorable night out.