The Jolly Judge: A Hidden Gem in Edinburgh
Discover the charm of The Jolly Judge, a cozy pub in Edinburgh offering local ales, traditional Scottish dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh's historic Lawnmarket, The Jolly Judge is a charming pub that invites tourists to experience authentic Scottish hospitality. With its cozy atmosphere, delightful local ales, and traditional Scottish fare, it's a must-visit for anyone looking to unwind after exploring the city's rich history.
A brief summary to The Jolly Judge
- 7A Lawnmarket, Edinburgh, EH1 2PB, GB
Local tips
- Visit during happy hour for discounted drinks and enjoy the local ales on tap.
- Try the haggis – it's a local specialty and a must-have for any visitor.
- Check their schedule for live music nights to enhance your experience.
- Opt for a table outside if the weather permits, for a lovely view of the Lawnmarket.
- Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot, as it gets quite busy with locals and tourists alike.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are at Edinburgh Waverley Train Station, exit the station onto Waverley Bridge. Turn left and walk towards the Royal Mile. As you approach the Royal Mile, turn right onto the High Street. Continue straight until you reach the Lawnmarket. The Jolly Judge is located at 7A Lawnmarket, which will be on your left side, just a short walk from the junction.
-
Bus
From the city center, you can catch the Lothian Buses service 3, 5, 7, 8, 14, or 29 towards the Royal Mile. Get off at the 'High Street' stop. Once you disembark, walk towards the Lawnmarket, which is a short distance away. The Jolly Judge is located at 7A Lawnmarket, on your left.
-
Tram
If you are near the Edinburgh Trams, take the tram towards York Place. Disembark at the St Andrew Square stop. From there, walk towards the East End of Princes Street and head towards the Royal Mile. Once at the Royal Mile, turn left and walk until you reach Lawnmarket. The Jolly Judge will be located at 7A Lawnmarket on your left.
-
Taxi
If you prefer a taxi, you can hail one from anywhere in the city. Simply tell the driver to take you to 'Lawnmarket, Edinburgh'. They will drop you off near the Royal Mile, from where you can easily find The Jolly Judge at 7A Lawnmarket, which is just a short walk away.
Discover more about The Jolly Judge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lady Stair's Close
0.1 km
Discover Lady Stair's Close, a serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh's Old Town, home to the Writers' Museum and Scotland’s literary heritage.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.1 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
David Hume Statue
0.1 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.2 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
George IV Bridge
0.2 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.2 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
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.
Edinburgh Underground
0.2 km
Discover the mysteries of Edinburgh Underground, where history and legend intertwine beneath the city's streets in a captivating journey.
Edinburgh City Chambers
0.2 km
Historic neoclassical landmark on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending civic heritage with timeless architectural elegance.
East Princes Street Gardens
0.3 km
Explore the beauty and tranquility of East Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh, a hidden gem offering stunning views and a peaceful retreat.
Uncovered Edinburgh
0.3 km
Discover the untold stories of Edinburgh's rich history and vibrant culture at Uncovered Edinburgh, a must-visit tourist attraction in Scotland's capital.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Adam Smith Statue
0.3 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Thomas Riddell's Grave
0.3 km
Explore the mystical Thomas Riddell's Grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic site rich with tales of the past and connections to the Harry Potter universe.
Unmissable attractions to see
House of Scotland
0.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and crafts at House of Scotland, a vibrant gift shop nestled on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Gladstone's Land
0.0 km
Step into 17th-century Edinburgh at Gladstone's Land, a towering tenement rich with history, art, and stories from the Royal Mile.
Milne's Court
0.0 km
Discover Milne's Court, Edinburgh’s pioneering open courtyard from 1692, nestled on the historic Royal Mile near the Castle.
Scottish Experience
0.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and magical Harry Potter memorabilia in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Lawnmarket.
Lady Stair's House
0.0 km
A serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh’s Old Town, home to the Writers’ Museum and a rich literary heritage.
The Writers' Museum
0.0 km
Explore Scotland’s literary heritage in a charming 17th-century house dedicated to Burns, Scott, and Stevenson on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
Patrick Geddes Centre at Riddle's Court
0.0 km
Historic 16th-century merchant’s tenement transformed by Patrick Geddes into a vibrant learning and cultural centre in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Lawnmarket
0.1 km
Stroll the cobbled Lawnmarket, where Edinburgh’s Royal Mile meets centuries of linen traders, philosophers, and hidden closes in the shadow of the Castle.
Whiski Rooms
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s award-winning whisky bar and restaurant offering over 300 whiskies, fresh Scottish cuisine, and daily tastings in a cosy historic setting.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.1 km
Experience the history and charm of Edinburgh at Deacon Brodie's Tavern, a traditional pub offering local ales and hearty Scottish cuisine.
John Knox Monument
0.1 km
A powerful tribute in Edinburgh to John Knox, the fearless leader of Scotland’s Reformation and founder of Presbyterianism.
I.J. Mellis Cheesemonger Victoria Street
0.1 km
Artisan cheese haven on Edinburgh’s historic Victoria Street, offering expertly matured farmhouse cheeses and personalized service for over 30 years.
Victoria St
0.1 km
Discover Victoria Street, Edinburgh’s colorful, curved historic street famed for its magical charm, boutique shops, and captivating atmosphere.
Assembly Hall
0.1 km
Historic Assembly Hall in Edinburgh’s Old Town, a stunning venue blending ecclesiastical heritage with vibrant festival culture.
Museum on the Mound
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s iconic banking history and the fascinating evolution of money in a free, interactive museum atop The Mound.
Essential places to dine
Howies Restaurant
0.1 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Makars Mash Bar
0.1 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Maison Bleue
0.1 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Ondine Restaurant
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.1 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Amber Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
The Devil's Advocate
0.2 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
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
0.2 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Under The Stairs
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.2 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
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.
Ecco Vino
0.3 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Beehive Inn
0.3 km
Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.3 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Olde Edinburgh
0.0 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
The Court Curio Shop
0.0 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
Heritage of Scotland
0.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
I Love Scotland
0.1 km
Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.1 km
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.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Mr Wood's Fossils
0.2 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Armstrongs Vintage
0.2 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
Fringe Shop
0.3 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Eden
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
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.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.3 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Great Scot
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
Godiva
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bow Bar
0.1 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
0.2 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
The Oz Bar
0.2 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
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 Three Sisters
0.3 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
Copper Still
0.3 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.3 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.4 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Whistlebinkies
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
Ballie Ballerson
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s iconic ball pit cocktail bar blending playful fun, creative drinks, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
Cask
0.4 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.4 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.5 km
Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
Dragonfly
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Liquid Room
0.1 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
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.
Sneaky Pete's
0.2 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Mash House
0.4 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.4 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
0.4 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
El Barrio Latino
0.4 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.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.5 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.5 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Opal Lounge
0.5 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.6 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Garibaldi's
0.6 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.
Club Tropicana
0.8 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.