Best Bars near Union Canal

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.

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, The Blackbird is a captivating beer garden and gastropub, offering a vibrant atmosphere perfect for tourists seeking relaxation and local flavor. With a diverse selection of craft beers and exquisite cocktails, it stands as an ideal spot to unwind after exploring the city's historic sites.

The Raging Bull is a vibrant cocktail bar located at 161 Lothian Road in Edinburgh, famed for its exceptional Espresso Martini variations and welcoming atmosphere. This stylish venue combines a quirky, fun vibe with expertly crafted drinks, making it a top choice for cocktail lovers. It features a spacious private party room, hosts free Fringe shows, and offers cocktail masterclasses, blending sophistication with a lively social scene.

SKYbar Edinburgh is a stylish rooftop cocktail bar located at 34 Bread Street in the heart of Edinburgh. Known for its sweeping panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle and the Fife coast, it offers a sophisticated weekend venue to enjoy expertly crafted drinks and limited edition cocktails. The bar features plush seating, a relaxed atmosphere, and is part of the DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre complex, making it a prime spot for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable night out.

Located on Lothian Road in Edinburgh’s vibrant West End, the Innis & Gunn Brewery Taproom is a lively hub for craft beer enthusiasts and food lovers. Known for its extensive selection of Innis & Gunn beers alongside local and international brews, it offers hearty Scottish pub classics, especially its famed steak frites with unlimited garlic butter fries. With a spacious, modern interior and a buzzing atmosphere, it’s a popular spot for pre-theatre drinks, casual meals, and live music events.

All Bar One Exchange Plaza is a stylish, contemporary wine bar located in the heart of Edinburgh on Lothian Road. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, attentive service, and a diverse menu of drinks and sharing plates, it is a popular spot for after-work gatherings and casual meetups. Conveniently close to Haymarket and Princes Street, it offers a modern, welcoming space with a moderate price range.

BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road is a vibrant bar and brewery located in a striking former bank building on Edinburgh’s Festival Square. Known for its extensive selection of craft beers on tap, innovative cocktails, and a menu featuring legendary burgers and wings, this spot combines industrial-chic ambiance with a lively atmosphere. It welcomes families, dogs, and craft beer enthusiasts alike, offering both indoor and outdoor seating in Edinburgh’s dynamic West End.

NQ64 Arcade Bar in Edinburgh is a vibrant, neon-lit venue blending retro arcade gaming with expertly crafted cocktails. Located on Lothian Road near the old town, it features 27 arcade machines, 2 pinball tables, and 5 retro consoles, alongside a menu of themed cocktails, beers, wines, and spirits. Open late every day, it offers a lively atmosphere perfect for gaming enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike, with food served by Pizza Geeks until 9pm.

Nestled in Edinburgh’s vibrant West End, The Rat Pack Piano & Cocktail Bar offers an intimate American-style piano bar experience. Known for its lively live music featuring classic tunes from the 60s to 90s, expertly crafted cocktails, and welcoming atmosphere, this venue blends nostalgic charm with modern nightlife. Its late-night hours and mix of cozy seating and lively spaces make it a popular spot for music lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

Heads & Tales Gin Bar is a stylish, intimate gin-focused cocktail bar nestled in Edinburgh’s West End, beneath the Rutland Hotel. Known for its unique atmosphere, it features two active Edinburgh Gin stills, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the distilling process. The bar serves an extensive menu of creative gin cocktails alongside seasonal sharing plates and Asian-inspired snacks, creating a vibrant yet cozy setting ideal for gin lovers and social gatherings.