Thistle Street Bar, Edinburgh Travel Guide

Free Guide: Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with fine whisky, live traditional music, and a cozy atmosphere in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.

A brief summary of Thistle Street Bar

Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with fine whisky, live traditional music, and a cozy atmosphere in Edinburgh’s historic New Town.

Thistle Street Bar is a welcoming traditional Scottish pub located at 39 Thistle Street in Edinburgh's vibrant New Town. Known for its extensive whisky and gin selection, cask ales, and draught beers, it offers a cozy atmosphere where locals and visitors enjoy live traditional music and friendly banter. Open from midday to late evening on weekends and afternoons on weekdays, it’s a perfect spot to experience authentic Scottish pub culture with a warm, passionate team behind the bar.

1–3 hrsTime to spend
$$Mid-range
IndoorSetting
4 / 5Mobile signal

On-site amenities

  • Restrooms
  • Drink options
  • Food options
  • Seating areas
  • Information boards
4.6 Excellent · 733 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • MonClosed
  • Tue3 pm–11 pm
  • Wed3 pm–11 pm
  • Thu2 pm–11 pm
  • Fri12 pm–11 pm
  • Sat12 pm–11 pm
  • Sun2 pm–11 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
39 Thistle St, Edinburgh EH2 1DY
Phone
Website

Getting there

Bus

Take Lothian Buses routes 3, 25, or 27 from Edinburgh city center; the journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evening service. A single ticket costs around £1.80 GBP.

Tram

Use the Edinburgh Trams from the airport or city center to Princes Street stop, then walk about 10 minutes to Thistle Street Bar. Tram fares range from £1.80 to £6.50 GBP depending on distance.

Taxi

Taxis from central Edinburgh take about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, with fares typically between £6 and £12 GBP. Taxi ranks are available throughout the city.

Walking

From Edinburgh city center, enjoy a 15-20 minute walk through New Town’s historic streets to reach the bar. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most travelers.

Discover more about Thistle Street Bar

A Historic Gem in Edinburgh’s New Town

Nestled in one of Edinburgh’s oldest streets, Thistle Street Bar stands as a charming beacon of traditional Scottish pub culture. This intimate venue embraces the spirit of Scotland through its carefully curated selection of cask ales, draught beers, and an impressive array of whiskies and gins. The bar’s location in the heart of New Town places it amidst a blend of historic architecture and modern vibrancy, making it a favored retreat for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic experience.

A Passionate Team and Unique Atmosphere

The atmosphere at Thistle Street Bar is often described as unique and inviting, crafted by a team passionate about their craft and hospitality. The staff’s knowledgeable approach to Scotland’s famed amber nectar and their warm, engaging service create a welcoming environment that encourages conversation and camaraderie. Regulars and newcomers alike find themselves drawn into the lively yet cozy ambiance, where the bar’s character shines through every detail.

Live Traditional Music and Cultural Vibes

Adding to the bar’s charm is its dedication to live traditional Scottish music, which often fills the space with rich melodies and spirited performances. These musical sessions enhance the cultural experience, offering guests a chance to immerse themselves in Scotland’s musical heritage while enjoying their drinks. The bar’s commitment to this tradition makes it a lively hub for cultural exchange and entertainment.

A Curated Drink Selection for Every Taste

Thistle Street Bar’s drink menu is thoughtfully designed to cater to a range of preferences. Its extensive whisky collection is a highlight, showcasing a variety of single malts and blends that appeal to connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Complementing the whiskies are quality cask ales, draught beers, and a selection of gins, including low and no-alcohol options. This variety ensures that every visitor can find something to suit their taste while enjoying the authentic pub setting.

Welcoming All Visitors, Including Four-Legged Friends

The bar prides itself on inclusivity, welcoming all who enter, including dog owners who can bring their pets along. This friendly policy adds to the relaxed and homey feel of the venue. However, it maintains a minimum entry age of 18, ensuring a mature environment for all patrons. The combination of accessibility and a respectful atmosphere makes it a comfortable spot for a wide audience.

Operating Hours and Local Integration

Thistle Street Bar operates with hours tailored to the rhythms of the city: opening in the afternoon on weekdays and from midday on weekends, closing late in the evening. Its position on Thistle Street situates it among other notable eateries and bars, contributing to a lively local scene. This integration with the neighborhood enhances the bar’s role as a social and cultural landmark within Edinburgh’s New Town.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Best time to go

Quietest: Jan, Feb & Mar · before 11am

How busy it gets, month by month Estimated
  1. Jan: 60% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  2. Feb: 50% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  3. Mar: 60% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  4. Apr: 70% of the busiest month
  5. May: 80% of the busiest month
  6. Jun: 90% of the busiest month
  7. Jul: 100% of the busiest month
  8. Aug: 100% of the busiest month
  9. Sep: 90% of the busiest month
  10. Oct: 80% of the busiest month
  11. Nov: 70% of the busiest month
  12. Dec: 60% of the busiest month
How busy it gets, hour by hour Estimated
  1. 8am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  2. 9am: 20% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  3. 10am: 20% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  4. 11am: 30% of the busiest hour
  5. 12pm: 50% of the busiest hour
  6. 1pm: 60% of the busiest hour
  7. 2pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  8. 3pm: 80% of the busiest hour
  9. 4pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  10. 5pm: 80% of the busiest hour
  11. 6pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  12. 7pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  13. 8pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  14. 9pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  15. 10pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  16. 11pm: 50% of the busiest hour

Busy times are Evendo estimates for a typical year, to help you plan. Actual crowds vary with events, school holidays and the weather.

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