Greyfriars Bobby's Bar, Edinburgh
Experience Edinburgh’s legendary loyalty tale at Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar, a historic pub serving real ales and classic Scottish hospitality.
Greyfriars Bobby's Bar is a historic pub located at 30-34 Candlemaker Row in Edinburgh, named after the legendary Skye Terrier, Bobby, famed for his unwavering loyalty guarding his owner's grave for 14 years. Nestled in a Georgian building adjoining the historic Candlemakers' Hall, this traditional Scottish pub offers an authentic atmosphere with a rich selection of real ales and classic pub food, celebrating a beloved Edinburgh story.
A brief summary to Greyfriars Bobby's Bar
- 30-34 Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh, EH1 2QE, GB
- +441312258328
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-12 am
- Thursday 12 pm-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Try one of the bar’s award-winning real ales, with expert advice available from the in-house cask master.
- Visit the Greyfriars Bobby statue outside the bar to appreciate the story of Bobby’s loyalty.
- Enjoy traditional Scottish pub food alongside your drinks for a full local experience.
- Explore nearby Greyfriars Kirkyard to see the graves of Bobby and John Gray, enriching your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 23 or 27 from Edinburgh city centre to Candlemaker Row; journey times range from 10 to 15 minutes with frequent service. Expect a short walk on cobblestones to the bar. A single fare costs approximately £1.80 GBP.
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Tram and Walk
Use the Edinburgh Trams to Princes Street stop, then enjoy a 15-minute walk through the Old Town to Candlemaker Row. The walk includes some uneven pavement and is not fully wheelchair accessible. Tram tickets cost around £6.00 GBP for a single journey.
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Taxi
A taxi from Edinburgh Waverley Station to Greyfriars Bobby's Bar takes about 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic. This is a convenient option if carrying luggage or in a group. Typical fare ranges between £6 and £10 GBP.
Greyfriars Bobby's Bar location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Greyfriars Bobby's Bar
A Legendary Tale of Loyalty
Greyfriars Bobby's Bar is named after one of Edinburgh’s most cherished legends — a Skye Terrier named Bobby who famously guarded the grave of his owner, John Gray, for 14 years until his own death in 1872. John Gray, a nightwatchman for the Edinburgh City Police, was accompanied by Bobby during his nightly patrols. After Gray died of tuberculosis in 1858 and was buried in Greyfriars Kirkyard, Bobby remained steadfastly by his graveside, inspiring generations with his devotion. The story is commemorated by a bronze statue and fountain erected in 1873 just outside the bar, symbolizing loyalty and love that transcends time.Historic Setting and Architecture
The bar occupies the ground floor of a row of Georgian houses on Candlemaker Row, adjacent to the historic Candlemakers’ Hall built in 1722. The building’s classic Georgian architecture provides a charming and authentic backdrop, evoking Edinburgh’s Old Town character. Inside, the pub retains traditional Scottish pub aesthetics, with warm wooden interiors, cozy seating, and an inviting atmosphere that reflects the city’s rich heritage.A Hub of Scottish Hospitality and Craft Ales
Greyfriars Bobby's Bar is renowned for its eclectic range of real ales, expertly curated by an in-house cask master who helps visitors select from award-winning brews. Alongside the drinks, the pub serves classic Scottish pub food, combining hearty flavors with quality ingredients. The welcoming staff and genuine Scottish hospitality make it a favored spot for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Edinburgh pub experience steeped in history.Connection to Edinburgh’s Cultural Fabric
Situated within walking distance of Chambers Street, Grassmarket, and George IV Bridge, the bar is embedded in Edinburgh’s vibrant Old Town. It serves as a cultural landmark, linking visitors to the city’s folklore and historical narrative. The adjacent Greyfriars Kirkyard, where Bobby and John Gray rest, draws many visitors, and the bar offers a perfect place to reflect on the story while enjoying a drink.Memorials and Legacy
Outside the bar stands the iconic Greyfriars Bobby statue atop a granite drinking fountain, commissioned by philanthropist Lady Burdett-Coutts and sculpted by William Brodie. This monument is Edinburgh’s smallest listed structure and a beloved symbol of loyalty. Inside the nearby Museum of Edinburgh, Bobby’s original collar, presented by the Lord Provost in 1867, is displayed as a treasured artifact. The bar keeps this legacy alive, inviting visitors to toast to Bobby’s memory in a setting full of warmth and history.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Greyfriars Bobby's Bar can expect a lively yet intimate atmosphere where history and hospitality blend seamlessly. The pub is a favored gathering spot for those who appreciate storytelling, traditional ales, and Scottish cuisine. Its location, rich with historical resonance, offers a unique experience that combines cultural heritage with the convivial spirit of a classic Edinburgh pub.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Greyfriars Bobby Statue
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Discover the heartwarming tale of Greyfriars Bobby, Edinburgh’s beloved loyal Skye Terrier immortalized in bronze near Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Pont George Ⅳ
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Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
George IV Bridge
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Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
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Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Old College, The University of Edinburgh
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Iconic 18th-century classical quadrangle housing Edinburgh Law School and University administration in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Barrie's Close
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Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
1 Parliament Sqr
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David Hume Statue
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A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
Mercat Cross
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Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
Flodden Wall
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Explore Edinburgh’s medieval Flodden Wall, a historic sandstone fortification built after 1513 to protect the city and shape its iconic Old Town skyline.
Lady Stair's House
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Edinburgh Underground
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Adam Smith Statue
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Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
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The Real Mary King's Close
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Discover the hidden history of Edinburgh at The Real Mary King's Close, a captivating underground adventure that reveals the city's fascinating past.
Unmissable attractions to see
City Of The Dead Tours
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Explore Edinburgh's haunted vaults and graveyards with expert guides blending history, atmosphere, and dark storytelling.
Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
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Historic Edinburgh cemetery famed for Covenanters, Greyfriars Bobby, haunting tales, and Harry Potter inspirations.
National Museum of Scotland
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Ballie Ballerson
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Thomas Riddell's Grave
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The Three Sisters
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Experience a lively blend of Scottish hospitality, vibrant live music, and delicious food at The Three Sisters in Edinburgh's Cowgate.
Central Library
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Edinburgh’s historic Central Library offers free access to rich collections, quiet study spaces, and vibrant community programs in a grand, welcoming setting.
National Library of Scotland
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Explore Scotland’s largest library on George IV Bridge, where priceless manuscripts, exhibitions, and a vibrant cultural heritage await.
McEwan Hall, The University of Edinburgh
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Discover the grandeur of McEwan Hall, a historic auditorium in Edinburgh that hosts cultural events and celebrates the city's rich heritage.
The Anatomical Museum, The University of Edinburgh
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Explore Edinburgh’s rich medical heritage through rare anatomical specimens and historic teaching collections in a unique university museum.
Talbot Rice Gallery, The University of Edinburgh
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Explore cutting-edge contemporary art within the historic grandeur of Edinburgh University’s Old College at Talbot Rice Gallery.
Victoria St
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Discover Victoria Street, Edinburgh’s colorful, curved historic street famed for its magical charm, boutique shops, and captivating atmosphere.
Supreme Courts
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Explore the Supreme Courts of Edinburgh, a stunning architectural landmark steeped in Scottish legal history, located in the heart of Scotland's capital.
The Cadies & Witchery Tours
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Discover Edinburgh’s dark past through thrilling, theatrical walking tours blending history, mystery, and spooky fun on Victoria Street.
61 Grassmarket
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Historic 61 Grassmarket in Edinburgh’s Old Town blends centuries of market heritage, dramatic history, and vibrant culture beneath Edinburgh Castle’s watchful gaze.
Essential places to dine
MUMS Great Comfort Food
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Hearty Scottish comfort food served all day in a cozy diner setting with vegan options and locally sourced ingredients.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
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Under The Stairs
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The Cellar Door
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The Outsider Restaurant
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Ondine Restaurant
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Howies Restaurant
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Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Maison Bleue
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Angels with Bagpipes
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The Witchery by the Castle
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Amber Restaurant
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Beehive Inn
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Makars Mash Bar
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Whiski Rooms
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Söderberg The Meadows
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mr Wood's Fossils
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Armstrongs Vintage
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The Enchanted Galaxy
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Dive into a wizarding wonderland on Victoria Street, where Harry Potter treasures and fantasy fandoms burst from every shelf in Edinburgh's most enchanting gift shop.
Olde Edinburgh
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Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
The Court Curio Shop
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Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
Heritage of Scotland
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Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
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Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
I Love Scotland
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Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
Fringe Shop
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Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Galaxy
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Tartan Weaving Mill and Exhibition
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Heritage of Edinburgh
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The Scotland Shop
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Godiva
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Crest Of Edinburgh
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Frankenstein
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The Oz Bar
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The Bow Bar
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The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
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Captain's Bar
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Copper Still
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The Banshee Labyrinth
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Whistlebinkies
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Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
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Royal Mile Tavern
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56 North
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Dragonfly
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Whiski Bar & Restaurant
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The World's End
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The Cocktail Geeks
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
