124 High St, Edinburgh: Gateway to Edinburgh’s Haunted Heritage
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Located on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, 124 High St is a notable building serving as the iconic starting point for the World Famous Underground Ghost Tour. Situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, this spot offers visitors a unique entry into the city’s dark past, with nearby access to eerie closes, haunted cemeteries, and subterranean vaults beneath the city streets.
A brief summary to 124 High St
- 124 High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1QS, GB
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good spot for the Underground Ghost Tour starting at 124 High St.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for cobbled streets and some stair climbing in the underground vaults.
- Check weather forecasts and dress accordingly, as tours run rain or shine.
- Note that the underground vaults are not wheelchair accessible due to stairs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Several Lothian Buses serve the Royal Mile area, with routes 35 and 36 connecting from Edinburgh city center and surrounding neighborhoods. Travel times vary from 10 to 20 minutes depending on starting point. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares around £1.80–£2.00 per single journey.
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Tram
The Edinburgh Tram stops at Princes Street, approximately a 10-minute walk from 124 High St. Trams run every 7–10 minutes with a journey time of 25–30 minutes from the airport. Tickets cost about £6 for a single trip from the airport.
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Walking
From Edinburgh Waverley Station, it is a 15-minute walk along Princes Street and the Royal Mile to 124 High St. The route is mostly flat but includes cobbled streets, so comfortable footwear is advised.
124 High St location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about 124 High St
Historic Context and Urban Setting
124 High St stands prominently on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, the city’s ancient thoroughfare that links the iconic Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This building, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is embedded within a rich tapestry of medieval architecture and cobbled streets that have witnessed centuries of Scottish history. The location itself is a hub of activity, surrounded by a mixture of retail, cultural landmarks, and historic sites that embody Edinburgh’s unique character.The Gateway to Edinburgh’s Dark Past
This address is best known as the meeting point for the World Famous Underground Ghost Tour, a highly regarded walking tour that immerses visitors in the eerie and mysterious stories of Edinburgh’s Old Town. From here, guests embark on a journey through shadowy wynds and closes—narrow alleys and courtyards that conceal centuries-old secrets. The tour also ventures into Greyfriars Kirkyard, reputedly one of the most haunted cemeteries in the world, and descends into the underground vaults beneath South Bridge, where tales of hauntings, murder, and witchcraft come alive.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The building at 124 High St itself is a classic example of Edinburgh’s historic urban fabric, with its traditional stone façade blending seamlessly into the surrounding streetscape. While it functions today primarily as a commercial and tour meeting point, its presence anchors visitors in the heart of a city where history is palpably present. The nearby Old Police Box, located just outside the building, serves as the official ticket office and gathering spot for tour participants.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Standing at 124 High St, visitors are immediately enveloped by the atmosphere of Edinburgh’s Old Town, where the interplay of light and shadow on ancient stone walls evokes a sense of mystery and intrigue. The sounds of bustling street life mix with whispered legends of the past, creating a multi-sensory experience. The location acts as a threshold between the lively city above and the spectral world below, inviting guests to explore the hidden layers of Edinburgh’s history.Significance in Edinburgh’s Tourism Landscape
As the launch point for one of the city’s most popular ghost tours, 124 High St plays a crucial role in Edinburgh’s cultural tourism. The tours attract a diverse audience, from history enthusiasts to thrill-seekers, offering a unique blend of storytelling, history, and paranormal exploration. This building and its immediate surroundings thus serve as a focal point for engaging with Edinburgh’s legendary haunted heritage.Modern Amenities and Accessibility
While the building primarily functions as a tour meeting point, the area around 124 High St is well-equipped with amenities including cafes, shops, and public transport links. The location is accessible year-round, with tours operating in various weather conditions, though the underground vaults require stair access and are not wheelchair accessible. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable footwear due to the cobbled streets and occasional uneven terrain.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
124 High St
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Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
The High Street Wellhead
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Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
Heritage of Edinburgh
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Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
Museum Context
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Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
Adam Smith Statue
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Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
1 Parliament Sqr
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Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Barrie's Close
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Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
Mercat Cross
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Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
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Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
Warriston's Close Stairs
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A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
Wellhead at John Knox House
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Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust
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Explore the literary heart of Edinburgh at the UNESCO City of Literature Trust, a treasure trove of exhibitions and literary heritage.
The Edinburgh Dungeon
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Dive into the dark and thrilling history of Scotland at The Edinburgh Dungeon, where spooky tales and immersive experiences await every visitor.
Statue Of Fifth Duke Of Buccleuch
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Explore the historical beauty of Edinburgh with a visit to the Statue of the Fifth Duke of Buccleuch, a remarkable sculpture steeped in Scottish heritage.
North Bridge
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Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hunter Square
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Historic Hunter Square, a serene crossroads behind Tron Kirk, blends Edinburgh’s rich heritage with peaceful urban charm.
Royal Mile
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Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile – a vibrant cobbled artery linking castle, cathedral, and palace through centuries of Scottish heritage.
Tron Kirk Market
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Discover Edinburgh’s historic 17th-century Tron Kirk transformed into a vibrant indoor market showcasing Scotland’s finest arts and crafts.
Monkey Barrel Comedy
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Edinburgh’s intimate comedy hotspot offering award-winning shows, diverse line-ups, and a welcoming atmosphere with table service and a great bar.
Department Of Magic
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Step into Edinburgh’s enchanting basement escape rooms and potions tavern for a magical adventure filled with puzzles, cocktails, and wizardry charm.
Fleshmarket Cl
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Explore the enchanting Fleshmarket Close, a historic gem in Edinburgh, showcasing rich culture and captivating architecture amidst cobblestone charm.
Mercat Tours
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Discover Edinburgh’s haunted vaults and historic secrets with Mercat Tours, where chilling stories and expert guides bring the city’s dark past to life.
ScoziaTour.com
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Discover Scotland's breathtaking beauty and rich history with ScoziaTour, your premier travel agency in Edinburgh.
Royal Mile Tavern
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Discover the heart of Edinburgh's culinary scene at the Royal Mile Tavern, a must-visit pub offering local flavors and vibrant atmosphere.
The Lost Close
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Discover Edinburgh’s hidden underground vault for immersive whisky tastings and rich historical storytelling beneath the Royal Mile.
Uncovered Edinburgh
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Discover Scotland's political heart and hidden histories at Parliament Square's premier historical experience.
Edinburgh Underground
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Descend into Edinburgh’s haunted underground vaults for a thrilling blend of dark history, ghostly tales, and immersive storytelling beneath the Old Town.
Anchor Close
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Historic Anchor Close on Cockburn Street offers an atmospheric glimpse into Edinburgh’s Old Town heritage amid Scots Baronial architecture and vibrant urban life.
St Cecilia’s Hall: Concert Room & Music Museum, The University of Edinburgh
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Scotland’s oldest purpose-built concert hall, now a museum of historic instruments and intimate live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
South Bridge Vaults
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Explore Edinburgh’s eerie 18th-century South Bridge Vaults, where history, mystery, and the city’s dark past converge beneath the streets.
Essential places to dine
The Piper's Rest
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Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
La Locanda Edinburgh
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A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Ecco Vino
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Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Angels with Bagpipes
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Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Monteiths
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Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Devil's Advocate
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Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
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Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
La Garrigue
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Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
Ondine Restaurant
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Makars Mash Bar
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Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
The Cellar Door
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Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Wedgwood The Restaurant
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Fine dining on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with seasonal Scottish cuisine and foraged ingredients in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
The Outsider Restaurant
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Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Whiski Rooms
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Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky selection at Whiski Rooms in Edinburgh's city center.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
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Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Scotland Shop
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Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Crest Of Edinburgh
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Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Fringe Shop
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Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
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Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
scottish experience cashmere place
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Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
Eden
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Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
The Wee Gift Shop
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Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
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Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Heritage Clearance Store
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Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
Galaxy
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Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Real Scot Shop
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Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street, where heritage meets quality and friendly service.
The Enchanted Galaxy
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A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
Ragamuffin
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Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
I Love Scotland
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Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at I Love Scotland, a welcoming shop in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic center.
Heritage of Scotland
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Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Copper Still
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Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Whistlebinkies
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Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
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Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
The Banshee Labyrinth
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Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
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A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Three Sisters
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A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
The World's End
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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
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Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
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Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
Captain's Bar
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Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Frankenstein
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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
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A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Jolly Judge
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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.
Cask
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Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Bow Bar
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A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
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Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
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Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
La Belle Angele
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Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
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A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Sneaky Pete's
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Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
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Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
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Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
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Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
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Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.6 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
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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.
Garibaldi's
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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
0.8 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.9 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
1.1 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Quirky
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Adult Friendly
