The Cocktail Geeks: Edinburgh’s Immersive Themed Cocktail Bar
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.
A brief summary to The Cocktail Geeks
- Arch 14, 27 E Market St, Edinburgh, EH8 8FS, GB
- +441315571224
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Luxury
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 3 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 3 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 3 pm-12 am
- Thursday 3 pm-12 am
- Friday 3 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Book your table in advance, especially for groups larger than two, to secure seating in this popular venue.
- Try the non-alcoholic mocktails if you prefer a sophisticated, flavorful alternative to traditional cocktails.
- Visit repeatedly to experience different themes, as the bar redecorates and updates its menu every few months.
- Ask the bartenders about the inspiration behind each cocktail for a richer, more engaging experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Cocktail Geeks location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
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.
North Bridge
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Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
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A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
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A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic 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.
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.
The Centre of Edinburgh
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Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
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.
Dugald Stewart Monument
0.3 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
0.3 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
Robert Fergusson Statue
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Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottish poetry with the Robert Fergusson Statue, a joyful tribute on Edinburgh’s historic Canongate.
Edinburgh City Chambers
0.4 km
Historic neoclassical landmark on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending civic heritage with timeless architectural elegance.
Adam Smith Statue
0.4 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Unmissable attractions to see
Little Fish Tours
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Experience Edinburgh like never before with Little Fish Tours, where local insights meet unforgettable adventures in Scotland's enchanting capital.
The Chocolatarium
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s interactive chocolate micro-factory where you craft, taste, and discover over 40 artisan chocolates in a historic Old Town setting.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
0.1 km
Discover Scotland’s rich storytelling heritage in Edinburgh’s vibrant cultural hub blending medieval charm with contemporary arts.
John Knox House
0.1 km
The world's first purpose-built storytelling centre, blending 15th-century history with contemporary performance on Edinburgh's Royal Mile.
Museum of Magic, Fortune-telling & Witchcraft Ltd
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s intimate museum exploring the rich history and practices of magic, witchcraft, and fortune-telling in a cozy, atmospheric setting.
The World's End
0.1 km
A snug, centuries‑stitched Royal Mile pub where Flodden Wall stone, local ales and hearty Scottish plates meet old‑town atmosphere.
Museum of Childhood
0.1 km
The world’s first museum dedicated to childhood, packed with toys, games, and memories from the 1800s to today on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Edinburgh's culinary scene at the Royal Mile Tavern, a must-visit pub offering local flavors and vibrant atmosphere.
Wee Ecosse - visites guidées en français à Edimbourg
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich history and culture through engaging French-language guided walking tours in the heart of the Old Town.
St. Patrick
0.2 km
Historic Catholic church in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending neoclassical architecture with deep Irish community roots and serene spiritual ambiance.
Tron Kirk Market
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s historic 17th-century Tron Kirk transformed into a vibrant indoor market showcasing Scotland’s finest arts and crafts.
The Fudge House of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Historic Royal Mile sweet shop offering rich, creamy Scottish fudge in a charming, welcoming setting with a wide variety of flavors.
Heart of Scotland Tours
0.2 km
Explore Scotland’s iconic sights and hidden gems with intimate, expertly guided small-group tours departing from Edinburgh’s Waterloo Place.
Jacob's Ladder
0.2 km
Historic and steep, Jacob's Ladder links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and a glowing nighttime presence.
Royal Mile
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile – a vibrant cobbled artery linking castle, cathedral, and palace through centuries of Scottish heritage.
Essential places to dine
La Garrigue
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Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
Monteiths
0.1 km
Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
0.1 km
Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Wedgwood The Restaurant
0.1 km
Fine dining on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with seasonal Scottish cuisine and foraged ingredients in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.3 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
The Piper's Rest
0.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Tolbooth Tavern
0.3 km
Historic Royal Mile pub blending 400 years of Scottish history with authentic cuisine and warm hospitality.
Howies Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine in a stunning Georgian dining hall at Howies Waterloo Place, Edinburgh’s beloved local gem.
Ecco Vino
0.4 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
Number One
0.4 km
Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
Duck & Waffle
0.4 km
A playful modern British restaurant in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter, famed for its signature duck and waffle and vibrant, Instagrammable atmosphere.
Twenty Princes Street
0.4 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with stunning city views at Twenty Princes Street, a stylish dining destination in Edinburgh’s heart.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.4 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage
0.4 km
Suspended fine dining with panoramic Edinburgh views from an architectural marvel atop Calton Hill.
The Devil's Advocate
0.4 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Real Scot Shop
0.1 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street, where heritage meets quality and friendly service.
Heritage Clearance Store
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
Ragamuffin
0.1 km
Discover unique, beautifully crafted women's knitwear in a charming boutique on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
The Wee Gift Shop
0.1 km
Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
scottish experience cashmere place
0.1 km
Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Scotland Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Prestige Scotland Kilt Maker & Souvenir Shop
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish kilts and Highland dress on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.3 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Pure Scottish
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Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
Eden
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Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
The Wyrd Shop
0.3 km
Edinburgh's esoteric gem on Canongate: crystals, tarot, pagan jewelry, and magickal handmade treasures in a cozy witchy haven.
Fringe Shop
0.3 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Galaxy
0.4 km
Discover a magical world of Harry Potter collectibles, pop culture treasures, and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.4 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Geeks
0.0 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.1 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
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 Banshee Labyrinth
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
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.
Copper Still
0.3 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
The Alchemist St James Quarter
0.4 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail theatre and unique dining at The Alchemist St James Quarter, where drinks come alive with magic and flair.
Cask
0.4 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.4 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
The Three Sisters
0.5 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
Captain's Bar
0.5 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.5 km
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.
The Jolly Judge
0.6 km
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.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.2 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
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.
La Belle Angele
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
0.4 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Sneaky Pete's
0.5 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
0.6 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.7 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.7 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.8 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.
Garibaldi's
0.9 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.
Opal Lounge
0.9 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
1.0 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
1.3 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
- Lively
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
