Stramash Live Music Bar in Edinburgh's Historic Old Town
Edinburgh’s vibrant live music venue with nightly bands, late-night dancing, and Scotland’s largest HD sports screen in a unique historic setting.
Stramash is a vibrant live music venue and bar located at 207 Cowgate in Edinburgh's Old Town. With a capacity of around 900, it hosts live bands every night until 3am, featuring a diverse range of music from local Scottish acts to international touring bands. The venue is housed in a converted church, offering a unique atmosphere with Edinburgh’s largest HD screen for sports fans. Free entry and a lively late-night scene make it a must-visit spot for music lovers and night owls.
A brief summary to Stramash
- 207 Cowgate, Edinburgh, EH1 1JQ, GB
- +441316234353
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 5 pm-3 am
- Tuesday 5 pm-3 am
- Wednesday 5 pm-3 am
- Thursday 5 pm-3 am
- Friday 5 pm-3 am
- Saturday 4 pm-3 am
- Sunday 5 pm-3 am
Local tips
- Arrive early on busy nights to secure a good spot near the stage or dance floor.
- Check the weekly event calendar online to catch traditional ceilidh dances or special tribute acts.
- Under 18s can enter with a responsible adult until 9pm, making early visits family-friendly.
- Enjoy live sports on the massive HD screen while sipping drinks at the bar.
- Use nearby taxi ranks or public transport for safe late-night travel after the venue closes at 3am.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take Lothian Buses routes 3, 27, or 41 to the Cowgate stop, approximately a 10-15 minute ride from Edinburgh city center. Services run frequently until late evening, with single fares costing around £1.80.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in central Edinburgh, with a typical journey to Stramash from Princes Street taking about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares around £6-£10. Taxi ranks are located near the venue for convenient late-night departures.
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Walking
Stramash is a 10-15 minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley Station along flat, paved streets through the Old Town. The route is suitable for most mobility levels and offers a scenic introduction to the historic city.
Stramash 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 Stramash
A Dynamic Hub for Live Music and Nightlife
Stramash stands as one of Edinburgh's premier live music venues, nestled in the heart of the Old Town on Cowgate. Its large capacity of approximately 900 people allows it to host a wide variety of musical performances every night of the week, often running until the early hours of 3am. The venue’s unique setting in a converted church lends it an atmospheric charm, blending historic architecture with a modern entertainment experience. The stage is expansive, designed to accommodate everything from intimate ceilidh dances to energetic party bands and touring acts.Architectural and Visual Appeal
The interior of Stramash is notable for its impressive size and design. The venue operates over two floors, including a mezzanine that provides excellent views of the stage from all angles. One of its standout features is Scotland’s largest HD screen, which broadcasts major sporting events, making it a popular destination for sports fans as well as music enthusiasts. The combination of historic structure and contemporary design elements creates a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.Entertainment Variety and Schedule
Stramash offers a diverse program of live music, including traditional Scottish ceilidh dances on Wednesdays, tribute acts, and a rotating lineup of local and international bands. The venue’s schedule is packed seven days a week, ensuring there is always something happening late into the night. This variety caters to a broad audience, from those seeking traditional folk music to fans of modern rock, pop, and dance music.Community and Accessibility
The venue prides itself on being inclusive and accessible, with facilities such as accessible toilets and level access entrances. Young visitors under 18 are allowed entry when accompanied by a responsible adult until 9pm, making it a family-friendly option during earlier hours. The bar serves a wide range of drinks and offers a lively social environment, enhanced by the large dance floor and multiple bars.Location and Surroundings
Located on Cowgate, Stramash is surrounded by Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, close to the Grassmarket area. This central location situates it within a vibrant nightlife district filled with other bars, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The venue’s proximity to public transport and taxi ranks adds to its convenience for late-night visitors.Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Stramash encounter a buzzing, energetic atmosphere where music and community come together. The venue’s late-night hours and free entry policy encourage a lively crowd, with a mix of locals and tourists creating a friendly and festive vibe. Whether attending a ceilidh dance, catching a live band, or watching a major sports event on the giant screen, Stramash offers an immersive and memorable night out in Edinburgh.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
Old College, The University of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Iconic 18th-century classical quadrangle housing Edinburgh Law School and University administration in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Barrie's Close
0.1 km
Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
124 High St
0.1 km
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.2 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
The High Street Wellhead
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
Mercat Cross
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
Adam Smith Statue
0.2 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Museum Context
0.2 km
Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
George IV Bridge
0.3 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.3 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
Museum of Magic, Fortune-telling & Witchcraft Ltd
0.3 km
Explore the mystical realm of the Museum of Magic, Fortune-telling & Witchcraft in Edinburgh, where history and enchantment intertwine seamlessly.
Heart of Midlothian Mosaic
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s iconic Heart of Midlothian mosaic—a historic symbol of justice, tradition, and local lore on the Royal Mile.
Surgeons' Hall Museums
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh’s historic Surgeons' Hall Museums, where medical history, pathology, and surgical innovation come vividly to life in a landmark setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cowgate
0.0 km
Discover Cowgate, Edinburgh’s historic street where medieval roots meet vibrant nightlife beneath the Old Town’s iconic skyline.
South Bridge
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s South Bridge and its eerie underground vaults, where history, mystery, and dark tales intertwine beneath the city’s bustling streets.
Mercat Tours
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s haunted vaults and historic secrets with Mercat Tours, where chilling stories and expert guides bring the city’s dark past to life.
South Bridge Vaults
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s eerie 18th-century South Bridge Vaults, where history, mystery, and the city’s dark past converge beneath the streets.
Auld Reekie Tours
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s haunted underground vaults and graveyards with award-winning, immersive guided tours blending history, mystery, and spine-tingling tales.
Department Of Magic
0.1 km
Step into Edinburgh’s enchanting basement escape rooms and potions tavern for a magical adventure filled with puzzles, cocktails, and wizardry charm.
Monkey Barrel Comedy
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s intimate comedy hotspot offering award-winning shows, diverse line-ups, and a welcoming atmosphere with table service and a great bar.
St Cecilia’s Hall: Concert Room & Music Museum, The University of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Scotland’s oldest purpose-built concert hall, now a museum of historic instruments and intimate live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
ScoziaTour.com
0.1 km
Discover Scotland's breathtaking beauty and rich history with ScoziaTour, your premier travel agency in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Old Town
0.1 km
Step into Edinburgh Old Town, where medieval streets, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture unite in Scotland’s historic capital.
Hunter Square
0.1 km
Historic Hunter Square, a serene crossroads behind Tron Kirk, blends Edinburgh’s rich heritage with peaceful urban charm.
Talbot Rice Gallery, The University of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art within the historic grandeur of Edinburgh University’s Old College at Talbot Rice Gallery.
The Three Sisters
0.2 km
Experience a lively blend of Scottish hospitality, vibrant live music, and delicious food at The Three Sisters in Edinburgh's Cowgate.
The Lost Close
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden underground vault for immersive whisky tastings and rich historical storytelling beneath the Royal Mile.
Tron Kirk Market
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s historic 17th-century Tron Kirk transformed into a vibrant indoor market showcasing Scotland’s finest arts and crafts.
Essential places to dine
The Piper's Rest
0.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.2 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
The Cellar Door
0.2 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.2 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.3 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Monteiths
0.3 km
Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.3 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
Ecco Vino
0.3 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
0.3 km
Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Under The Stairs
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
Ondine Restaurant
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
The Devil's Advocate
0.3 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
La Garrigue
0.3 km
Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
MUMS Great Comfort Food
0.3 km
Hearty Scottish comfort food served all day in a cozy diner setting with vegan options and locally sourced ingredients.
Howies Restaurant
0.4 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Galaxy
0.1 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.1 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
The Scotland Shop
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Fringe Shop
0.2 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
scottish experience cashmere place
0.2 km
Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Wee Gift Shop
0.2 km
Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.3 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Eden
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Heritage Clearance Store
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
Real Scot Shop
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street, where heritage meets quality and friendly service.
Ragamuffin
0.3 km
Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
I Love Scotland
0.3 km
Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
Heritage of Scotland
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.1 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Copper Still
0.2 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Whistlebinkies
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
Captain's Bar
0.2 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.2 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Frankenstein
0.3 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
The Oz Bar
0.3 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The World's End
0.3 km
Discover the charm of The World's End pub on the Royal Mile, where history meets hearty Scottish cuisine and local brews in Edinburgh.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.3 km
Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
Ballie Ballerson
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s iconic ball pit cocktail bar blending playful fun, creative drinks, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
The Cocktail Geeks
0.4 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
The Jolly Judge
0.4 km
A cozy, historic Scottish pub nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for malt whiskies, real ales, and timeless hospitality just minutes from the Castle.
The Bow Bar
0.4 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.5 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
La Belle Angele
0.0 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
0.0 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.1 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.1 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Sneaky Pete's
0.2 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
0.4 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.7 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.7 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.8 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Opal Lounge
0.9 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
0.9 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
1.0 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Club Tropicana
1.1 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
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
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly