The Ship Inn, Dalkeith: A Classic Local Pub Experience
A welcoming traditional pub on Dalkeith’s High Street offering hearty fare, local ales, and a friendly community atmosphere.
The Ship Inn in Dalkeith is a traditional, inexpensive pub located on High Street, offering a welcoming atmosphere with a strong local character. Known for its friendly service and casual vibe, it serves as a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking a relaxed drink or hearty pub fare in an authentic Scottish setting. Open daily with extended evening hours, the Ship Inn blends community spirit with classic pub charm.
A brief summary to Ship Inn
- 92 High St, Dalkeith, EH22 1HZ, GB
- +441316632044
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-11:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-11:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-11:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-11:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-11:30 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-11:30 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-11:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday evenings for a quieter experience and attentive service.
- Try the classic pub dishes paired with local ales for an authentic Scottish taste.
- The pub is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry companions along.
- Be prepared for limited parking in the area; consider public transport or walking if possible.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Ship Inn location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Ship Inn
Historic Heart of Dalkeith's Social Scene
The Ship Inn stands prominently on 92 High Street, Dalkeith, embodying the essence of a traditional Scottish pub. While its exact founding date is not widely documented, the inn has long served as a cornerstone for local gatherings, offering a place where residents and visitors mingle in a convivial atmosphere. Its location in the historic town of Dalkeith situates it amid a rich cultural backdrop, blending the town’s heritage with everyday community life.Atmosphere and Ambience
Inside, the Ship Inn exudes a casual, unpretentious vibe favored by locals. The pub is known for its warm and friendly service, making it a welcoming spot for both regulars and newcomers. The interior reflects classic pub aesthetics with a cozy, lived-in feel, though some reviews note the venue could benefit from refurbishment and improved maintenance, particularly in restroom facilities. Despite this, the atmosphere remains relaxed and inviting, with a focus on good company and straightforward hospitality.Food and Drink Offerings
The Ship Inn offers a menu typical of Scottish pubs, featuring hearty, well-prepared dishes at reasonable prices. Patrons can expect traditional pub fare alongside a selection of drinks including local ales, spirits, and soft beverages. The pub’s food is praised for its quality and value, making it a favored spot for a casual meal or a drink after work. While the menu is not extensive, it caters well to those seeking comfort food and a friendly dining experience.Community and Clientele
The Ship Inn serves a diverse clientele, primarily locals from Dalkeith and surrounding areas, creating a strong sense of community. It is a place where people gather for socializing, watching sports, or simply enjoying a quiet drink. The pub’s dog-friendly policy adds to its welcoming nature, encouraging a broad range of visitors. While the pub is not a tourist hotspot, its authentic local character offers visitors a genuine taste of Scottish pub culture.Operating Hours and Practical Details
Open daily from 10:00 or 10:30 in the morning until 23:30, the Ship Inn accommodates both daytime and evening visitors. Its central location on High Street makes it easily accessible, though parking may be limited. The pub’s affordability and extended hours make it a convenient choice for casual dining and social gatherings throughout the week.Challenges and Opportunities
While beloved for its atmosphere and community feel, the Ship Inn faces some challenges common to traditional pubs, including the need for facility upgrades and consistent service quality. These areas present opportunities for enhancement to better serve patrons and maintain its role as a cherished local institution in Dalkeith.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Newton Tower
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Melville Castle Hotel
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Dalhousie Castle Hotel And Spa
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Maiden Castle
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Roslin Memorial
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Roslin Parish Church
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Arthur's Seat
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Innocent Railway Tunnel
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Historic Environment Scotland
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The Caiy Stane
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Scottish Parliament Building
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White Horse Close
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Surgeons' Hall Museums
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Queen Mary's Bath House
9.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Dalkeith Country Park
0.6 km
Explore 1,000 acres of adventure, history, and nature just minutes from Edinburgh at Dalkeith Country Park.
Fort Douglas Adventure Park
1.0 km
A magical adventure playground for children set within the historic and scenic Dalkeith Country Park near Edinburgh.
Tesco Superstore
1.6 km
Your all-day, everyday Tesco Superstore in Dalkeith Hardengreen, offering groceries, fuel, clothing, and travel money services under one roof.
National Mining Museum Scotland
3.6 km
Explore Scotland’s coal mining heritage at the historic Lady Victoria Colliery, with immersive tours, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly experiences.
The Musselburgh Golf Club
4.1 km
Experience championship golf steeped in Scottish heritage, just minutes from Edinburgh’s vibrant heart.
Gilmerton Cove
4.2 km
Explore the mysterious hand-carved sandstone tunnels beneath Edinburgh’s Gilmerton, where history and legend intertwine in an underground labyrinth.
Cousland Smiddy Trust
4.8 km
Experience Scotland’s last working blacksmith forge and village heritage at Cousland Smiddy, where history and craft come alive.
Inveresk Lodge Garden
4.8 km
Discover Inveresk Lodge Garden, a serene hillside haven near Edinburgh, where seasonal blooms, woodlands, and wildlife create a peaceful retreat.
Mavisbank House
4.9 km
Discover Scotland’s first Palladian villa, a historic estate blending Enlightenment ideals, architectural innovation, and pioneering mental health care.
Newhailes Estate
5.2 km
Explore Newhailes Estate’s elegant Palladian mansion, tranquil woodland walks, and rich Dalrymple family heritage near Edinburgh.
Gore Glen Woodland Park
5.3 km
Discover tranquil woodland trails and panoramic Pentland Hills views in Gore Glen Woodland Park, a natural oasis rich in wildlife and history.
Craigmillar Castle
5.6 km
Explore the medieval charm and royal history of Craigmillar Castle, Edinburgh’s well-preserved fortress with stunning city views and tranquil gardens.
Newbyres Castle
5.9 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Newbyres Castle, a 16th-century Scottish tower house nestled in tranquil Midlothian countryside.
Vogrie Country Park
6.2 km
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Dryden Tower
6.8 km
Discover the historical allure of Dryden Tower in Roslin, Scotland - a perfect blend of architecture, nature, and heritage.
Essential places to dine
The Cavaliere Italian Restaurant
0.1 km
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Justinlees Inn
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The Melville Inn
1.7 km
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Elginhaugh Farm - Dining & Carvery
1.7 km
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The Sun Inn
2.4 km
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Gigi's Italian Restaurant
2.7 km
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Beijing Banquet
3.0 km
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Luci's Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
3.1 km
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The Paper Mill
3.1 km
Historic riverside bar and brasserie in Lasswade offering all-day dining, Scottish craft beers, and live music in a charming setting.
The Mercat Bar & Grill
3.7 km
Discover delightful dishes and refreshing drinks at The Mercat Bar & Grill – where flavor meets fun in Musselburgh.
The Dungeon Restaurant
3.8 km
A candlelit fine-dining experience in the atmospheric vaults beneath Dalhousie Castle, blending Scottish ingredients with French technique in a storybook setting.
The Campaign Room Bistro
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Memories of India
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Craig House Brewers Fayre
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Crolla's Italian Kitchen
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Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern touch in the heart of Musselburgh’s vibrant Courtyard.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mr Melts Wax
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Discover handcrafted candles and unique home decor at Mr Melts Wax, Dalkeith's charming homewares shop.
B&M Store
0.1 km
Affordable shopping with a wide selection of discounted goods in the heart of Dalkeith’s High Street.
The Kitchen at Restoration Yard
1.0 km
Discover the culinary charm of The Kitchen at Restoration Yard, a delightful restaurant in the heart of Dalkeith Country Park, offering local flavors and scenic views.
Restoration Yard
1.0 km
Discover a unique blend of curated shopping, seasonal dining, and wellness in a historic stableyard at Dalkeith Country Park.
8 Yards Ltd
1.3 km
Discover bespoke Scottish menswear and over 5,000 clan tartans at 8 Yards Ltd, Dalkeith’s premier kilt and traditional clothing boutique.
Ideal Store
2.8 km
Explore Ideal Store in Newtongrange for unique tools, quality home supplies, and local craftsmanship that will enhance your travel experience.
B&M Home Store with Garden Centre
4.7 km
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Home Bargains
5.7 km
Budget-friendly Home Bargains in Loanhead offering great value on household essentials and more in a convenient retail park setting.
The Just World Shop
7.4 km
Discover fair trade treasures and handcrafted art at The Just World Shop in Portobello, Edinburgh’s ethical craft haven.
Meadowbank Shopping Park
9.2 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant shopping park offering diverse stores, extended hours, and a welcoming atmosphere for all your retail and dining needs.
Holyrood Gift Shop
9.2 km
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The Wyrd Shop
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Prestige Scotland Kilt Maker & Souvenir Shop
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The Enchanted Galaxy
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ship Inn
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Old Colliery
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The Royal Oak
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The Argyle and Cellar Bar
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Whispers Lounge Bar
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Captain's Bar
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The Hermitage Bar
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Artisan Bar
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Ballie Ballerson
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Mash House
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La Belle Angele
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Cabaret Voltaire
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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.
Sneaky Pete's
9.7 km
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Legends
9.7 km
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The Bongo Club
9.7 km
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The Liquid Room
9.8 km
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Shanghai Nightclub
10.3 km
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Why Not Nightclub
10.3 km
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El Barrio Latino
10.3 km
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Opal Lounge
10.4 km
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Garibaldi's
10.4 km
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Club Tropicana
10.4 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
10.4 km
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Casual
- Lively
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
