The Cocktail Geeks Travel Guide

Free Guide: Edinburgh’s ever-changing themed cocktail bar blending pop culture, creativity, and expertly crafted drinks in a vibrant, immersive setting.

A brief summary of The Cocktail Geeks

Edinburgh’s ever-changing themed cocktail bar blending pop culture, creativity, and expertly crafted drinks in a vibrant, immersive setting.

Nestled in Arch 14 on East Market Street, The Cocktail Geeks is a unique cocktail bar in Edinburgh renowned for its ever-changing pop culture themes and expertly crafted cocktails. With imaginative decor that transforms every few months, this venue offers an immersive experience where each drink tells a story. Known for its welcoming staff, extensive cocktail and mocktail menus, and vibrant atmosphere, it is a must-visit for cocktail lovers and fans of creative nightlife.

1–2 hrsTime to spend
$$$Luxury
IndoorSetting
5 / 5Mobile signal

On-site amenities

  • Restrooms
  • Drink options
  • Food options
  • Seating areas
  • Information boards
4.7 Excellent · 1,137 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Mon3 pm–12 am
  • Tue3 pm–12 am
  • Wed3 pm–12 am
  • Thu3 pm–12 am
  • Fri3 pm–1 am
  • Sat12 pm–1 am
  • Sun12 pm–12 am

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
Arch 14, 27 E Market St, Edinburgh EH8 8FS
Phone
Website

Getting there

Public Transport

Take Edinburgh’s Lothian Buses to the East Market Street stop, approximately 10-15 minutes from the city center. Services run frequently with a single fare costing around £1.80. The bar is a short walk from the stop, accessible via paved city streets.

Taxi or Rideshare

A taxi or rideshare from Edinburgh Waverley Station to The Cocktail Geeks takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £6-£10. This is a convenient option for groups or late-night visits.

Walking

From Edinburgh city center, it is a 20-25 minute walk along mostly flat, well-lit streets. This option is suitable for those who enjoy exploring the city on foot and is wheelchair accessible.

Discover more about The Cocktail Geeks

A Dynamic Venue Rooted in Pop Culture

The Cocktail Geeks is not just a bar; it is a constantly evolving experience located beneath the Jeffrey Street bridge in Edinburgh’s Arch 14. What sets it apart is its dedication to rotating themed environments inspired by popular culture, from Netflix’s Stranger Things to Lord of the Rings. Every few months, the bar undergoes a complete transformation in decor, uniforms, and cocktail menus, immersing visitors in a new world. This commitment to creativity keeps the venue fresh and exciting for repeat visitors.

Craftsmanship Behind Every Cocktail

The bar prides itself on its meticulously crafted cocktails, which are both visually stunning and delicious. Each drink is thoughtfully designed to reflect the current theme, with bartenders eager to share the inspiration and ingredients behind their creations. The menu also includes an impressive selection of non-alcoholic mocktails, ensuring that non-drinkers can enjoy the experience fully. This attention to detail extends to complementary snacks like cashew nuts and Perello olives, enhancing the tasting journey.

Atmosphere and Ambience

The venue’s cave-like setting under the arches creates an intimate and atmospheric backdrop for its immersive themes. The walls are adorned with artwork and thematic elements that contribute to the overall vibe without overwhelming the space. Despite being relatively small, the bar manages to maintain a lively yet cozy atmosphere, supported by friendly and knowledgeable staff who enhance the visitor experience with their passion and expertise.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

The Cocktail Geeks is wheelchair accessible and dog friendly, welcoming a diverse clientele. The venue enforces an over-18s policy and may require ID, ensuring a mature environment. Its location in the city center makes it accessible for locals and tourists alike, with easy access to nearby public transport and Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife.

Why Visit The Cocktail Geeks?

Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable night out, The Cocktail Geeks offers a unique blend of creativity, quality, and fun. Its ever-changing themes provide a reason to return regularly, while the expertly crafted cocktails and warm service guarantee a rewarding experience. It is also a hotspot for Instagram enthusiasts thanks to its photogenic decor and thematic backdrops.

Practical Details and Visitor Experience

Open from midday on weekends and mid-afternoon during weekdays, the bar stays lively into the early hours on weekends. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for groups, due to its popularity and limited space. The venue’s staff are attentive and quick, ensuring minimal wait times between drinks. While the cocktails are on the pricier side, their quality and the immersive experience justify the expense for most visitors.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Best time to go

Quietest: Jan, Feb & Mar · before 1pm

How busy it gets, month by month Estimated
  1. Jan: 50% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  2. Feb: 40% 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: 90% of the busiest month
  8. Aug: 100% of the busiest month
  9. Sep: 80% of the busiest month
  10. Oct: 70% of the busiest month
  11. Nov: 60% of the busiest month
  12. Dec: 70% of the busiest month
How busy it gets, hour by hour Estimated
  1. 12am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  2. 1am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  3. 12pm: 20% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  4. 1pm: 30% of the busiest hour
  5. 2pm: 20% of the busiest hour
  6. 3pm: 50% of the busiest hour
  7. 4pm: 60% of the busiest hour
  8. 5pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  9. 6pm: 80% of the busiest hour
  10. 7pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  11. 8pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  12. 9pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  13. 10pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  14. 11pm: 70% 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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