Angels with Bagpipes: Contemporary Scottish Dining on the Royal Mile
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Angels with Bagpipes is a celebrated modern Scottish restaurant located on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile. Known for its innovative small plates and seasonal menus, it offers a refined dining experience blending local Scottish ingredients with European influences. The cozy yet stylish setting complements dishes like haggis bon bons, smoked salmon, and sea trout, making it a standout for food lovers seeking authentic yet creative Scottish cuisine in an atmospheric Old Town location.
A brief summary to Angels with Bagpipes
- 343 High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1PW, GB
- +441312201111
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Luxury
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-9 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-9 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-9 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-9 pm
- Friday 12 pm-9 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-9 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-9 pm
Local tips
- Reserve a table in advance, especially for weekends or special occasions, as the restaurant is popular and fills quickly.
- Try sharing several small plates to experience a variety of the menu’s creative Scottish dishes.
- Consider the bar area for a more casual and cooler atmosphere if the main dining room feels warm.
- Inform the staff of any dietary restrictions or allergies; the kitchen is accommodating and allergy-friendly.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Angels with Bagpipes 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 Angels with Bagpipes
A Culinary Jewel on Edinburgh's Royal Mile
Nestled at 343 High Street, Angels with Bagpipes occupies a charming 17th-century building in Edinburgh's Old Town, directly opposite the iconic St Giles Cathedral. Since opening in 2010, it has become synonymous with contemporary Scottish cuisine that honors local produce while embracing European culinary influences. The restaurant's name derives from a beautiful wood carving in the nearby Thistle Chapel, reflecting its deep connection to Scottish heritage.Innovative Small Plates and Seasonal Menus
Angels with Bagpipes specializes in small plates designed for sharing, allowing diners to sample a variety of flavors and textures. The menu changes seasonally to showcase the freshest Scottish ingredients, with standout dishes including haggis bon bons with whisky sauce, tenderstem broccoli smoked over ricotta with chili and honey, and Scottish crab served with lemon and crumpet. Main courses such as sea trout with mussels and keta caviar, chicken breast with truffle and spinach, and ribeye steak with peppercorn sauce highlight the kitchen’s skillful balance of tradition and innovation.Atmosphere and Service in a Historic Setting
The interior blends the historic character of its Old Town location with a modern, cozy ambiance. The dining area exudes warmth and intimacy, while the bar offers a more casual and comfortable space. Service is noted for being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive without being intrusive, enhancing the overall dining experience. The restaurant also caters thoughtfully to dietary restrictions, offering allergy-friendly options and accommodating special requests.Signature Drinks and Desserts
Complementing the food is an extensive drinks menu featuring classic and signature cocktails such as the Angel’s Margarita and Angel’s Fizz, alongside a well-curated wine list. Desserts maintain the inventive spirit of the kitchen, with offerings like rhubarb cheesecake with ginger biscuit and chocolate cremeux with raspberry and cocoa nibs. For cheese lovers, the Isle of Mull cheddar with oatcakes provides a satisfying finish.Local Recognition and Dining Experience
Though no longer listed in the Michelin Guide, Angels with Bagpipes remains highly regarded for its quality, creativity, and authentic Scottish flavors. It is a favored choice for special occasions and those seeking a refined yet relaxed dining experience on the Royal Mile. The restaurant’s commitment to local sourcing and seasonal variation ensures that each visit offers something new and memorable.Practical Details and Accessibility
Open daily from noon to 9 pm, Angels with Bagpipes welcomes guests throughout the week. Its central location makes it easily accessible from Edinburgh Waverley station, about 0.16 miles away. While the restaurant is cozy, it is suitable for couples, groups, and discerning solo diners alike. Pricing is on the higher side, reflecting the quality and creativity of the dishes, with small plates averaging from £10 to £15 and mains ranging up to £40.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.0 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
Mercat Cross
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
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.
David Hume Statue
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A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Lady Stair's Close
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Discover Lady Stair's Close, a serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh's Old Town, home to the Writers' Museum and Scotland’s literary heritage.
124 High St
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Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Department Of Magic
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Experience the magical fusion of cocktails and escape rooms at Edinburgh's Department of Magic, where every visit is a thrilling adventure.
Milne's Court
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Discover Milne's Court, a captivating historical landmark in Edinburgh, where the past meets the present in a picturesque setting.
The Mound & Mound Place
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Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
George IV Bridge
0.2 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Parliament Sqr
0.0 km
Historic Parliament Square in Edinburgh blends medieval charm with modern architecture at the gateway to the Royal Mile.
The Real Mary King's Close
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Step beneath Edinburgh’s Royal Mile into a preserved 17th-century close and uncover the city’s hidden stories of plague, poverty, and daily life.
St Giles' Cathedral
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Discover the historic heart of Edinburgh at St Giles' Cathedral, a symbol of Scotland’s faith, history, and architectural grandeur.
Heart of Midlothian Mosaic
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Experience the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic, a vibrant symbol of Edinburgh's football heritage and a must-see historical landmark.
JK Rowling’s Handprints
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Discover the golden handprints of J.K. Rowling at Edinburgh City Chambers, a tribute to the author’s lasting impact on the city and literary world.
Advocate's Cl
0.0 km
Step into history along Advocate's Close, a steep medieval alleyway in Edinburgh’s Old Town, rich with legal heritage and stunning views.
Statue Of Fifth Duke Of Buccleuch
0.1 km
An ornate Victorian bronze statue honoring the 5th Duke of Buccleuch’s legacy, set in Edinburgh’s historic Parliament Square.
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.
Edinburgh City Chambers
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh City Chambers: A Historical Gem in the Heart of Scotland's Capital, Showcasing Governance and Heritage.
The News Steps
0.1 km
Historic stone steps linking Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town, echoing the city’s vibrant newspaper heritage and urban character.
Uncovered Edinburgh
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Discover Scotland's political heart and hidden histories at Parliament Square's premier historical experience.
The Lost Close
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden underground vault for immersive whisky tastings and rich historical storytelling beneath the Royal Mile.
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.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
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Experience the magic of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, where tradition meets breathtaking performances in the heart of Scotland.
ScoziaTour.com
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Discover Scotland's breathtaking beauty and rich history with ScoziaTour, your premier travel agency in Edinburgh.
Essential places to dine
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.
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.
Ecco Vino
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Makars Mash Bar
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Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Ondine Restaurant
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Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
La Locanda Edinburgh
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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.
Howies Restaurant
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Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
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.
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.
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.
Maison Bleue
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French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Under The Stairs
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Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
The Witchery by the Castle
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A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Amber Restaurant
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Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
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Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic 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.
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.
Eden
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Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
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.
Crest Of Edinburgh
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Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.1 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Olde Edinburgh
0.2 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
House of Scotland
0.2 km
Explore authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at the House of Scotland, located on the historic Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
The Court Curio Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
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.J. Mellis Cheesemonger Victoria Street
0.2 km
Edinburgh's iconic artisan cheese shop where small-scale makers meet passionate consumers on the city's most storied street.
The Enchanted Galaxy
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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.
Mr Wood's Fossils
0.3 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Bow Bar
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A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
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 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.
Royal Mile Tavern
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Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
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.
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 Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
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Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
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.
Captain's Bar
0.4 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
The Cocktail Geeks
0.4 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
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 Voodoo Rooms
0.4 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sneaky Pete's
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
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.
La Belle Angele
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.3 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 Mash House
0.3 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.5 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.5 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
0.5 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Opal Lounge
0.6 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
0.7 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
0.7 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
0.9 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
- Cozy
- Relaxing
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
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
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Adult Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- LGBT Friendly