Bramble Bar: Edinburgh’s Intimate Speakeasy Cocktail Haven
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy speakeasy offering expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, intimate underground setting on Queen Street.
Nestled discreetly on Queen Street in Edinburgh’s New Town, Bramble Bar is a celebrated speakeasy-style cocktail lounge known for its expertly crafted drinks, cozy underground setting, and lively yet intimate atmosphere. Operating daily from late afternoon to early morning, it offers a unique blend of innovative cocktails, attentive service, and a relaxed vibe, making it a favorite among locals and visitors seeking a refined yet unpretentious night out.
A brief summary to Bramble Bar
- 16A Queen St, Edinburgh, EH2 1JE, GB
- +441312266343
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 4 pm-1 am
- Wednesday 4 pm-1 am
- Thursday 4 pm-1 am
- Friday 4 pm-1 am
- Saturday 4 pm-1 am
- Sunday 4 pm-1 am
Local tips
- Arrive early after opening at 4 pm to secure a seat, as Bramble Bar operates on a first-come-first-serve basis with limited seating.
- Try signature cocktails like the Grand Central or Atlas Stone for a unique taste experience crafted by skilled bartenders.
- Visit on weekends to enjoy live DJs who add a vibrant soundtrack to the bar’s intimate atmosphere.
- Engage with the knowledgeable staff who can recommend drinks tailored to your preferences.
- Prepare for a cozy underground setting with dim lighting and exposed brick walls that enhance the speakeasy vibe.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
Bramble Bar location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bramble Bar
A Hidden Gem in Edinburgh’s New Town
Tucked away beneath the bustling streets of Edinburgh’s elegant New Town, Bramble Bar offers a speakeasy experience that feels both exclusive and welcoming. Since opening in 2006, this basement bar has quietly built a reputation for delivering some of the city’s finest cocktails in a setting that balances intimacy with style. Its unassuming entrance belies the vibrant atmosphere inside, where exposed brick walls, leather armchairs, and dim lighting create a warm, inviting space perfect for relaxed evenings or special celebrations.Masterful Mixology and Innovative Cocktails
Bramble Bar is renowned for its creative and meticulously crafted cocktail menu, featuring unique concoctions that blend classic influences with modern twists. Signature drinks like the Grand Central, combining gin, cacao, vermouth, marshmallow, and fizz, or the Atlas Stone with whisky, hibiscus, dark beer, plum, and bitters, showcase the bartenders’ skill and imagination. Prices generally range from £8.50 to £11.50, reflecting the high-quality ingredients and craftsmanship. The knowledgeable bartenders are happy to guide guests through the menu or tailor drinks to individual tastes, enhancing the personalized experience.Atmosphere and Entertainment
The bar’s ambiance is both lively and intimate, with a layout that includes cozy nooks and private corners ideal for romantic evenings or quiet conversations. On weekends, live DJs energize the space with carefully curated playlists, adding a dynamic layer to the experience without overwhelming the relaxed vibe. Even on quieter nights, the music selection—often featuring 90s R&B and hip hop—complements the bar’s cool, underground feel. Seating is limited, reinforcing the exclusive, first-come-first-serve nature of the venue.Service and Visitor Experience
Bramble Bar is celebrated for its attentive and friendly staff, who provide excellent service with attention to detail, such as topping up water or offering recommendations. Despite its popularity and accolades, the bar maintains an unpretentious charm, making it accessible to cocktail enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Its walk-in-only policy encourages spontaneity, though arriving early is advisable to secure a seat, especially on busy nights.Cultural Significance and Recognition
Recognized among the UK’s top cocktail bars, Bramble has contributed significantly to Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife scene. It helped pioneer the speakeasy cocktail bar trend in the city and continues to be a benchmark for quality and creativity. The bar’s understated decor and focus on craft over flashiness embody a sophisticated yet approachable ethos that resonates with a diverse clientele.Practical Details and Location Context
Located at 16A Queen Street, Bramble Bar is easily accessible within Edinburgh’s city center. It operates from 4 pm to 1 am Tuesday through Sunday, closing on Mondays. The basement setting means the venue has a cozy footprint, adding to its charm but also limiting capacity. Visitors can expect a moderately priced night out with exceptional drinks and a memorable atmosphere, ideal for those looking to explore Edinburgh’s cocktail culture beyond the mainstream.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of King George Ⅳ
0.2 km
A regal bronze tribute to King George IV’s historic 1822 visit, standing proudly at Edinburgh’s vibrant Hanover and George Street intersection.
James Clerk Maxwell Statue
0.2 km
Celebrate the legacy of James Clerk Maxwell, the father of modern physics, with this evocative statue in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.
Melville Monument
0.3 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
Earl of Hopetoun Statue
0.4 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
0.5 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.6 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
The Centre of Edinburgh
0.6 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
Lady Stair's Close
0.6 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.
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
0.6 km
A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
Milne's Court
0.7 km
Discover Milne's Court, a captivating historical landmark in Edinburgh, where the past meets the present in a picturesque setting.
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.7 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
Charlotte Square
0.7 km
Explore the elegance and cultural richness of Charlotte Square, Edinburgh's Georgian gem and vibrant hub of history and art.
North Bridge
0.7 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
The Witches Well
0.7 km
A poignant cast iron memorial outside Edinburgh Castle honoring the thousands accused and executed as witches in Scotland’s dark past.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
0.7 km
Experience the magic of perception at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh's premier museum of optical wonders and interactive displays.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Dome
0.2 km
Experience the elegance of The Dome in Edinburgh, where exquisite dining, vibrant cocktails, and afternoon tea await in a stunning Georgian setting.
Assembly Rooms
0.2 km
Timeless Georgian elegance meets vibrant cultural life in Edinburgh’s iconic Assembly Rooms on George Street.
St Andrew Square & George St
0.2 km
Elegant Georgian square in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending historic grandeur, tranquil gardens, and vibrant cultural life.
Roxy Lanes Edinburgh Rose Street
0.2 km
A vibrant city centre hotspot offering bowling, games, American-style eats, and lively entertainment on Edinburgh’s Rose Street.
National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s rich history and culture through captivating portraits in a stunning Neo-Gothic gallery in Edinburgh’s New Town.
Edinburgh Bus Tours
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh's rich history and stunning landscapes with convenient and informative bus tours, perfect for every traveler.
Heriot Row
0.3 km
Discover the timeless elegance and historic charm of Heriot Row, a prestigious Georgian street overlooking tranquil gardens in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town.
St Andrew Square
0.3 km
Elegant Georgian square in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending historic grandeur, lush gardens, iconic monuments, and vibrant urban life.
Rose St
0.3 km
A lively, historic pedestrian street in Edinburgh’s New Town, famed for its pubs, boutique shops, and rich literary heritage.
The Stand Comedy Club
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s iconic basement comedy club delivering lively stand-up shows with a warm, intimate atmosphere and a mix of top and emerging talent.
Princes St
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s bustling main street with stunning views, historic gardens, iconic monuments, and vibrant shopping in the heart of the city.
Floral Clock
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s iconic Floral Clock, a vibrant living timepiece blooming with seasonal flowers in the heart of Princes Street Gardens.
The Royal Scottish Academy
0.4 km
Discover Scotland’s premier artist-led institution showcasing fine art and architecture in a historic Edinburgh landmark.
Scott Monument
0.4 km
Discover the stunning Scott Monument in Edinburgh's Princes Street Gardens, a Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott with breathtaking city views.
Multrees Walk
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s luxury shopping street, home to Scotland’s only Harvey Nichols, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and more in a stylish pedestrian precinct.
Essential places to dine
Six by Nico Edinburgh
0.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s Six by Nico for innovative six-course tasting menus blending playful flavors and stylish ambiance in the city’s vibrant New Town.
The Table
0.2 km
Ten seats, two chefs, one unforgettable table—Edinburgh's most intimate fine dining theatre.
Amarone
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively ambiance in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town at Amarone, a bustling Italian restaurant with a rich menu.
The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh
0.3 km
Elegant British brasserie with Scottish flair, inventive cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere in Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Bread Street Kitchen & Bar - Edinburgh
0.3 km
Experience Gordon Ramsay’s signature British dishes and vibrant bar scene in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic St Andrew Square.
Gaucho Edinburgh
0.3 km
Experience authentic Argentinian steakhouse luxury with premium Pampas beef and elegant ambiance in Edinburgh’s vibrant city center.
Dishoom Edinburgh
0.3 km
A vibrant Bombay-style café in Edinburgh’s New Town, serving all-day comfort food, bottomless chai and cocktails in a nostalgic, art-deco setting.
The Magnum
0.4 km
A cozy yet stylish Edinburgh restaurant blending classic Scottish flavors with creative modern cuisine and a lively bar atmosphere.
Lady Libertine
0.4 km
A chic Edinburgh hotspot blending inventive cocktails, Mediterranean mezze, and art deco vibes across two stylish floors.
Contini George Street
0.4 km
Elegant Italian dining in a stunning Georgian banking hall, blending authentic flavors with Scottish freshness on Edinburgh’s George Street.
Hawksmoor Edinburgh
0.4 km
A grand art deco steakhouse in Edinburgh’s New Town, serving exceptional grass-fed beef and Scottish seafood in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.
Tattu Edinburgh
0.4 km
Experience modern Chinese cuisine in a stunning setting blending Edinburgh’s historic charm with contemporary elegance.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
0.4 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
Twenty Princes Street
0.5 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with stunning city views at Twenty Princes Street, a stylish dining destination in Edinburgh’s heart.
Badger & Co
0.5 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Greyfriars Art
0.2 km
A welcoming art supply haven in Edinburgh’s New Town, fostering creativity with quality materials and expert advice.
Great Scot
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
Unicorn Antiques
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gem for authentic antiques, vintage furniture, and timeless treasures at Unicorn Antiques on Dundas Street.
Edinburgh Gifts
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
The Treasure Trove
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
0.5 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.5 km
Discover quirky, affordable Danish design and everyday essentials in Edinburgh’s vibrant Waverley Mall store.
Anime Republic
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant anime gift shop and community hub offering collectibles, manga, and events for fans of all levels.
Scottish Design Exchange
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant hub where over 300 local artists showcase unique creations, supporting Scotland’s creative economy with every purchase.
Pure Scottish
0.6 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
Curiouser & Curiouser
0.6 km
A design-led independent shop in Edinburgh, filled with art, cards, homewares, and unique gifts with a Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic.
I Love Scotland
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at I Love Scotland, a welcoming shop in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic center.
The Dragonfly
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at The Dragonfly, a stylish boutique gift shop in Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Those Were The Days Vintage
0.7 km
Discover timeless elegance and authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to the 1990s at Edinburgh’s curated boutique, Those Were The Days Vintage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bramble Bar
0.0 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
Grand Cru
0.1 km
Edinburgh's cocktail haven on Hanover Street, blending masterful drinks, modern European bites, and seamless day-to-night vibes in the heart of New Town.
Thistle Street Bar
0.1 km
A cozy and authentic Scottish bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for superb ales, live traditional music, and warm local hospitality.
The Bon Vivant
0.2 km
Candlelit bistro haven on Thistle Street, pouring award-winning cocktails and serving local Scottish fare with French finesse since 2008.
Lucky Liquor Co
0.3 km
Intimate and creative cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s New Town, blending expert mixology with a vinyl soundtrack and a welcoming vibe.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.3 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Nightcap
0.3 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
Copper Blossom
0.4 km
A glamorous cocktail bar and restaurant on George Street, blending stylish decor with inventive drinks and shareable plates in vibrant Edinburgh.
Never Really Here
0.4 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.5 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
The Alchemist
0.6 km
Theatrical cocktails that smoke and sparkle, inventive global dishes, and an alchemist's lair in Edinburgh's St James Quarter—pure mixology magic awaits.
Dirty Dick's Pub
0.6 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
Panda & Sons
0.6 km
Edinburgh's hidden speakeasy where barbershop secrets unlock theatrical cocktails, smoky spectacles, and a fictional family's boozy tales in cosy, low-lit elegance.
The Last Word
0.6 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
The Street
0.7 km
Casual cocktail bar by day, energetic late-night bar and small club by night — Picardy Place’s go-to spot for social evenings and weekend parties.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Garibaldi's
0.0 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.
Opal Lounge
0.2 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Why Not Nightclub
0.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.2 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.2 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.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.4 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
0.5 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
The Liquid Room
0.7 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
0.8 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
0.8 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
0.8 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.9 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Club Tropicana
0.9 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.9 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Intimate
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Minimalist 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
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
