Best Bars near Lauriston Castle

Nestled in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge area, The Last Word Saloon is a warm, intimate cocktail bar known for expertly crafted drinks, a welcoming atmosphere, and a rich whisky selection. This stylish, underground venue offers a relaxed escape from the city bustle, featuring creative cocktails, a roaring fireplace, and attentive, friendly staff who elevate every visit.

Nestled in Edinburgh’s West End, The Jolly Botanist is a specialist gin bar known for its inviting Victorian-style interior, extensive gin selection, and hearty Scottish-inspired pub fare. With a friendly atmosphere and quirky decor, it offers a unique blend of traditional charm and contemporary conviviality, making it a favored spot for locals and visitors alike.

Hidden beneath a vintage barbershop on Queen Street, Panda & Sons is Edinburgh's premier speakeasy cocktail bar. Enter through a disguised bookshelf door to discover a Prohibition-era haven of theatrical drinks, inventive mixes, and bow-tied staff serving complimentary popcorn. The menu unfolds like a novel, chronicling the fictional Panda family's boozy adventures with creative concoctions like smoky birdcage presentations and barrel-aged classics. Cosy seating, low lights, and eclectic decor create an intimate, classy atmosphere perfect for cocktail enthusiasts seeking a unique night out in the New Town.

The Rat Pack is Edinburgh’s premier American-style piano and cocktail bar located at 9 Shandwick Place. Famous for its live piano performances and extensive cocktail menu, it offers a vibrant nightlife atmosphere with a blend of classic and unique drinks. Open late into the night, it’s a popular spot for music lovers seeking an engaging and lively evening in the city’s West End.

Nestled in the basement of the Rutland Hotel in Edinburgh’s West End, Heads & Tales Gin Bar offers a unique blend of cozy ambiance, expert mixology, and a direct connection to the Edinburgh Gin distillery. This stylish speakeasy-style venue features two on-site gin stills, a diverse cocktail menu centered around gin, and a selection of Asian-inspired sharing plates, making it a must-visit for gin lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

The Caley Bar, located within the historic Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian, is a sophisticated cocktail and whisky bar blending Victorian railway heritage with modern luxury. Open daily from 5 pm, it offers a warm, inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and an extensive selection of Scottish whiskies. The bar’s elegant interior, inspired by vintage train carriages, makes it a perfect spot for pre-dinner drinks or a relaxed evening in Edinburgh’s city centre.

The Oxford Bar is a historic pub located at 8 Young Street in Edinburgh’s New Town. Established in 1811, it is famed for its no-frills charm and as the favourite haunt of Ian Rankin’s fictional detective, Inspector Rebus. This intimate, traditional pub offers a cozy atmosphere with wooden benches, a lingering coal fire scent, and walls adorned with vintage photos, making it a beloved spot for locals and literary fans alike.

Dirty Dick's Pub, nestled on Edinburgh's lively Rose Street, offers a unique and atmospheric experience with its dimly lit, rustic interior filled with eclectic memorabilia. Known for an extensive whisky and gin selection, hearty Scottish pub classics, and friendly service, this gastropub blends traditional charm with a quirky, fun vibe. Open daily until late, it’s a favored spot for locals and visitors seeking authentic Scottish hospitality and vibrant nightlife.

Copper Blossom is a stylish and vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant located at 107 George Street in Edinburgh. Known for its glamorous decor and lively atmosphere, it offers a menu of small plates, hearty mains, and inventive cocktails. Popular for boozy brunches, sharing plates, and a welcoming social vibe, Copper Blossom blends contemporary elegance with a casual, fun-filled experience in the heart of the city.

Lucky Liquor Co is a vibrant, intimate cocktail bar located on Queen Street in Edinburgh’s New Town. Since 2013, it has been celebrated for its creative, expertly crafted cocktails, a compact but eclectic menu, and a welcoming atmosphere enhanced by a 100% vinyl soundtrack. This moderately priced bar offers a unique mixology experience with friendly bartenders and a curated bottle shop, making it a standout destination for cocktail enthusiasts.