Best Bars near Surgeons' Hall Museums

Captain's Bar is a small, atmospheric pub located on South College Street in Edinburgh's Old Town. Established over 200 years ago, it is renowned for its intimate live Scottish folk music sessions every day, serving local real ales and a fine selection of whiskies. The bar's traditional wooden interior and warm, casual vibe make it a beloved spot for locals and visitors seeking authentic Scottish culture and conviviality.

Located in Newington, Edinburgh, 56 North is Scotland’s first dedicated gin bar, kitchen, and working distillery. Renowned for its extensive collection of over 400 gins and award-winning South Loch Distillery spirits, it offers a relaxed atmosphere with modern interiors, a diverse menu, and daily gin tastings. Open from noon until late, it’s a vibrant spot for gin enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

Nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, The Banshee Labyrinth is famed as Scotland’s most haunted pub. This atmospheric bar occupies a labyrinth of dark, vaulted underground chambers beneath Niddry Street, offering a unique blend of gothic charm, live music, karaoke, and cinema nights. Its eerie ambiance, complete with spooky decor and hidden creepy dolls, makes it a captivating destination for those seeking a hauntingly memorable night out.

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.

Ballie Ballerson in Edinburgh was a unique cocktail bar and party venue famous for its giant mirrored ball pit and vibrant nightlife. Located at 14 Forrest Road, it combined playful fun with creative cocktails and lively DJ sets in a historic Grade B listed building. Though it closed permanently in October 2024, it remains a memorable part of Edinburgh’s nightlife scene for its immersive atmosphere and innovative concept.

Whistlebinkies is a renowned live music bar nestled deep in the historic vaults beneath South Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Open nightly until the early hours, it offers free entry with an eclectic lineup of local bands, an extensive drinks menu, and a uniquely cozy, atmospheric setting that blends the charm of an old building with vibrant nightlife energy.

Frankenstein is a uniquely themed bar located in a converted 19th-century church on George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town. This atmospheric venue brings Mary Shelley’s classic tale to life with gothic decor and a lively, immersive experience. Situated near the Royal Mile, it offers a distinctive nightlife destination blending history, literature, and vibrant social scenes in the heart of the city.

Nestled on Edinburgh's bustling Royal Mile, Copper Still is a welcoming Scottish bar and restaurant serving fresh, locally sourced dishes from breakfast through dinner. Enjoy prime Scotch beef, haggis, seafood, craft beers, whiskies, gins, cocktails, and fine wines in a cozy spot perfect for watching street performers outside. Open daily from 9am till late, it blends historic charm with modern Scottish flavors.

Set midway along Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, Whiski Bar & Restaurant is a warm, wood‑lined whisky bar and all‑day Scottish kitchen with over 300 single malts, nightly live Scottish music and a menu of classic local dishes such as haggis, steak pie and seafood. Housed in an atmospheric Old Town space, it blends traditional character, convivial evening energy and an informal daytime café vibe for visitors and locals alike.

The Royal Mile Tavern is a traditional Scottish pub located on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile in the Old Town. Open daily from noon until 1am, it offers a warm, lively atmosphere with over 100 whiskies, craft ales, and hearty Scottish pub fare including vegetarian and vegan options. Known for live music every night, this tavern blends rich local heritage with vibrant entertainment and friendly service.