Best Bars near Holyrood Abbey

The Artisan Bar is a traditional and lively pub located on London Road in Edinburgh, known for its ornate exterior, island bar, and welcoming atmosphere. Popular with both locals and tourists, it offers a broad selection of drinks at affordable prices, accompanied by friendly service and a small outdoor seating area perfect for people-watching in the city. Open daily from 11am until late, it is a favorite spot for casual socializing and experiencing Edinburgh’s vibrant bar scene.

The World's End, situated on the iconic Royal Mile, is a must-visit pub and restaurant that captures the essence of Edinburgh's vibrant culture. This historic establishment offers a unique atmosphere, delicious food, and a wide selection of beverages, making it the perfect spot for tourists looking to unwind and enjoy local flavors.

The Cocktail Geeks is a vibrant, small cocktail bar located in Arch 14, 27 E Market St, Edinburgh. Known for its rotating immersive themes and expertly crafted cocktails, it offers a unique experience with quirky twists, including excellent non-alcoholic options. The bar is wheelchair accessible, dog friendly, and features attentive, passionate staff who enhance the welcoming atmosphere.

Monteiths is a vibrant bar and restaurant situated in Edinburgh, offering a delightful blend of British cuisine and cocktail magic. With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu, it's an ideal stop for tourists seeking a memorable dining experience.

Set midway along Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, Whiski Bar & Restaurant is a warm, wood‑lined whisky bar and all‑day Scottish kitchen with over 300 single malts, nightly live Scottish music and a menu of classic local dishes such as haggis, steak pie and seafood. Housed in an atmospheric Old Town space, it blends traditional character, convivial evening energy and an informal daytime café vibe for visitors and locals alike.

The Royal Mile Tavern is a traditional Scottish pub located on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile in the Old Town. Open daily from noon until 1am, it offers a warm, lively atmosphere with over 100 whiskies, craft ales, and hearty Scottish pub fare including vegetarian and vegan options. Known for live music every night, this tavern blends rich local heritage with vibrant entertainment and friendly service.

Whistlebinkies is a renowned live music bar nestled deep in the historic vaults beneath South Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Open nightly until the early hours, it offers free entry with an eclectic lineup of local bands, an extensive drinks menu, and a uniquely cozy, atmospheric setting that blends the charm of an old building with vibrant nightlife energy.

Nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, The Banshee Labyrinth is famed as Scotland’s most haunted pub. This atmospheric bar occupies a labyrinth of dark, vaulted underground chambers beneath Niddry Street, offering a unique blend of gothic charm, live music, karaoke, and cinema nights. Its eerie ambiance, complete with spooky decor and hidden creepy dolls, makes it a captivating destination for those seeking a hauntingly memorable night out.

Located at 414 St James Crescent in Edinburgh, The Alchemist St James Quarter is a vibrant cocktail bar known for its imaginative, theatrical drinks and a unique dining menu. This upscale venue combines creative mixology with a lively atmosphere, offering guests a memorable experience through visually stunning cocktails and high-quality food in a stylish setting.

A lively, moderately priced bar and cocktail spot on Picardy Place in central Edinburgh, The Street blends a casual pub feel with a dedicated nightclub vibe after dark. Known for cocktails, an outdoor terrace and late closing hours on weekends, it suits evening socialising and small-group nights out in the Georgian streets near the city centre.