The Three Sisters: Edinburgh’s Legendary Cowgate Venue
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
The Three Sisters is a vibrant, multi-level bar and live entertainment venue located at 139 Cowgate in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. Housed in a former brewery, it offers a lively atmosphere with a large courtyard, multiple bars, regular live music, karaoke, and a restaurant. Popular with students and locals alike, it’s known for its nonstop party vibe, eclectic events, and welcoming social scene.
A brief summary to The Three Sisters
- 139 Cowgate, Edinburgh, EH1 1JS, GB
- +441316226802
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-1 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-1 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-3 am
- Thursday 12 pm-3 am
- Friday 12 pm-3 am
- Saturday 10 am-3 am
- Sunday 12 pm-3 am
Local tips
- Visit on weeknights for quieter dining and enjoy weekday promotions like the 10% sign-up offer.
- Check the live events calendar to catch local music, comedy, or sports screenings.
- Make a reservation for larger groups or special occasions to guarantee seating.
- Explore the courtyard for open-air drinks and seasonal events during warmer months.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Three Sisters location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Three Sisters
A Historic Hub Transformed into a Social Powerhouse
The Three Sisters occupies a historic site on Edinburgh’s Cowgate, once part of a bustling brewery complex. This location has been reimagined into a sprawling venue that blends the city’s rich past with a contemporary party atmosphere. The name honors the three Mackinnon sisters—Cath, Kitty, and Maggie—who were famed performers in Edinburgh during the 1740s, adding a cultural legacy to the venue’s identity.Dynamic Spaces for Every Night Out
Inside, The Three Sisters offers a network of bars spread across multiple floors, including a lively student union bar that serves as a popular gathering spot for university students. The venue’s large courtyard is a standout feature, providing an open-air space that hosts live music, DJ sets, and seasonal events. The interior is decorated with Edinburgh-themed murals and vibrant artwork, creating an immersive environment that reflects the city’s character and the youthful energy of its patrons.Entertainment and Events That Keep the Party Going
The Three Sisters is renowned for its eclectic calendar, featuring live sports broadcasts, local music talent, comedy nights, and karaoke. Its reputation as a nonstop party venue means there’s always something happening, from casual weekday drinks to weekend celebrations that stretch into the early hours. The venue also offers special promotions such as birthday deals and weekday dining offers, enhancing its appeal for both locals and visitors.Culinary Offerings and Drink Selection
Beyond its bars and entertainment, The Three Sisters includes a restaurant serving a varied menu that complements the lively atmosphere. Guests can enjoy traditional Scottish dishes with modern twists alongside a broad selection of drinks, including cocktails, beers, and spirits. The venue’s friendly and attentive staff contribute to its welcoming vibe, making it a favored spot for socializing and celebrations.Location and Cultural Significance
Situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, The Three Sisters benefits from the historic ambiance of Cowgate, an area known for its vaulted arches and vibrant nightlife. The venue’s connection to Edinburgh’s student community and its role as a cultural hotspot make it a key destination for experiencing the city’s youthful energy and social scene. Its proximity to other historic sites adds to its appeal as a lively meeting point.Artistic Flair and Community Engagement
The venue has invested in artistic enhancements, including murals depicting Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks and festival fireworks, creating a visually stimulating environment. These artworks celebrate the city’s heritage and cater to the diverse university population that frequents the bar. The Three Sisters also engages with the local community through events and collaborations, strengthening its status as a cornerstone of Edinburgh’s social life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
George IV Bridge
0.1 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.1 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
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.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
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.
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.
Greyfriars Bobby Statue
0.2 km
Discover the heartwarming tale of Greyfriars Bobby, Edinburgh’s beloved loyal Skye Terrier immortalized in bronze near Greyfriars Kirkyard.
David Hume Statue
0.2 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
Old College, The University of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Iconic 18th-century classical quadrangle housing Edinburgh Law School and University administration in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
124 High St
0.2 km
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.2 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
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
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.
Supreme Courts
0.1 km
Explore the Supreme Courts of Edinburgh, a stunning architectural landmark steeped in Scottish legal history, located in the heart of Scotland's capital.
National Library of Scotland
0.1 km
Explore Scotland’s largest library on George IV Bridge, where priceless manuscripts, exhibitions, and a vibrant cultural heritage await.
Cowgate
0.1 km
Discover Cowgate, Edinburgh’s historic street where medieval roots meet vibrant nightlife beneath the Old Town’s iconic skyline.
The Lost Close
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden underground vault for immersive whisky tastings and rich historical storytelling beneath the Royal Mile.
ScoziaTour.com
0.1 km
Discover Scotland's breathtaking beauty and rich history with ScoziaTour, your premier travel agency in Edinburgh.
Uncovered Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover Scotland's political heart and hidden histories at Parliament Square's premier historical experience.
National Museum of Scotland
0.1 km
Explore Scotland’s rich heritage and global stories in this vast, family-friendly museum at Edinburgh’s cultural heart.
Central Library
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s historic Central Library offers free access to rich collections, quiet study spaces, and vibrant community programs in a grand, welcoming setting.
St Giles' Cathedral
0.1 km
Discover the historic heart of Edinburgh at St Giles' Cathedral, a symbol of Scotland’s faith, history, and architectural grandeur.
Stramash
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant live music venue with nightly bands, late-night dancing, and Scotland’s largest HD sports screen in a unique historic setting.
Statue Of Fifth Duke Of Buccleuch
0.2 km
An ornate Victorian bronze statue honoring the 5th Duke of Buccleuch’s legacy, set in Edinburgh’s historic Parliament Square.
Heart of Midlothian Mosaic
0.2 km
Experience the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic, a vibrant symbol of Edinburgh's football heritage and a must-see historical landmark.
Parliament Sqr
0.2 km
Historic Parliament Square in Edinburgh blends medieval charm with modern architecture at the gateway to the Royal Mile.
Greyfriars Bobby's Bar
0.2 km
Experience Edinburgh’s legendary loyalty tale at Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar, a historic pub serving real ales and classic Scottish hospitality.
Essential places to dine
The Cellar Door
0.1 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.1 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.1 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
Under The Stairs
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
Ondine Restaurant
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
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 Piper's Rest
0.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Howies Restaurant
0.2 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
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.
MUMS Great Comfort Food
0.2 km
Hearty Scottish comfort food served all day in a cozy diner setting with vegan options and locally sourced ingredients.
Makars Mash Bar
0.3 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Maison Bleue
0.3 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Ecco Vino
0.3 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Whiski Rooms
0.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky selection at Whiski Rooms in Edinburgh's city center.
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
Fringe Shop
0.2 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
The Scotland Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
I Love Scotland
0.2 km
Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
Heritage of Scotland
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic 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.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.2 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.
Galaxy
0.2 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Olde Edinburgh
0.3 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
House of Scotland
0.3 km
Explore authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at the House of Scotland, located on the historic Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
Armstrongs Vintage
0.3 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
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.
The Court Curio Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Frankenstein
0.1 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
0.1 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
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.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.2 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Bow Bar
0.2 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
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.
Captain's Bar
0.3 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Whistlebinkies
0.3 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
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s iconic ball pit cocktail bar blending playful fun, creative drinks, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
The Jolly Judge
0.3 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 Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.3 km
Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The World's End
0.4 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.
The Cocktail Geeks
0.5 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sneaky Pete's
0.1 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.1 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
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Mash House
0.2 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.2 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 Liquid Room
0.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.3 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.7 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.7 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.
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.
Opal Lounge
0.8 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
0.8 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
0.8 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
1.0 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
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Bohemian Styles
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
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
